How Does Pressure Washing Work? The Process Explained Step-by-Step

If the exterior surfaces of your home or business look dull, dirty, or covered in grime, it may be time to call in a professional pressure washing service. Pressure washing, or power washing, uses an advanced sprayer to remove stubborn dirt, mold, mildew, and other contaminants from outdoor surfaces.

But how does pressure washing actually work to blast away years of accumulated filth? When performed correctly by a skilled technician, pressure washing is a safe, effective cleaning method for your home’s exterior. Read on as we explain the pressure washing process step-by-step.

What is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing utilizes a mechanical sprayer that forces water through a nozzle at high pressure. Typical household garden hoses spray water at around 40-80 psi (pounds per square inch). However, pressure washers generate 500-4,000 psi – enough to dislodge grime and debris.

Along with pressure, most washers heat the water to aid cleaning. Hot water (typically 140-250°F) helps dissolve oil and grease buildup. The combination of hot water and high-pressure spray makes pressure washing ideal for cleaning vinyl siding, brick, concrete, wood decks, driveways, and more.

How Does a Pressure Washer Work?

A pressure washer has three main components:

· High-pressure pump: Powers water from a reservoir through the hose/tubing and creates amplified water pressure.

· Engine: Provides power to the pump. Gasoline engines or electric motors are common.

· Trigger gun: A spray wand with a trigger used to aim and release the pressurized water in a targeted stream or fan pattern

The engine drives a water pump that draws liquid from a reservoir tank. The pump forces water through a discharge hose to the trigger gun. When the trigger is pulled, water blasts from the nozzle to strip away dirt and debris at close range.

It’s the generation of water pressure combined with the spraying technique that allows pressure washing to clean where household hoses fail.

Step 1 – Inspect and Prepare the Surface

A reputable pressure washing company will evaluate the surface type first and identify problem areas in need of cleaning. Some materials like wood, fiber cement, or vinyl siding require adjustments to the pressure washer settings to avoid damage. A visual inspection also allows the technician to note high-up grime to target with specialty lances.

Any items that shouldn’t get wet are removed or covered in plastic sheeting for protection. The technician sweeps the areas to eliminate loose debris that could turn into damaging projectiles.

Step 2 – Set Up the Power Washer

Professional pressure washers are transported via trailers to job sites. The machine requires space for operation, plus access to water and electricity. The technician connects:

· Garden hose from spigot to water inlet with backflow preventer valve

· High-pressure discharge hose to trigger gun/wand

· Power cord (electric models) or fuel line (gas models)

The soap reservoir is filled with cleaning solution if chemical cleaners will be applied. Finally, the operator starts up the motor and allows the equipment to reach the ideal temperature and pressure levels before spraying.

Step 3 – Apply Cleaning Solutions

While pressure alone can dislodge most stubborn dirt, grime, and buildup, applying cleaning solutions first increases effectiveness. A diluted solution of special pressure washer detergent, degreaser, or other cleaner soaks into the surface to help lift contaminants. Using the right chemical solution avoids surface damage while boosting results.

Step 4. Rinse at High Pressure

Starting at the top, the technician sprays a pressurized rinse across the wetted, soapy surface. Working top to bottom helps gravity remove debris and prevents streaking. He or she may switch between fan spray tips for broad cleaning and pencil point nozzles for focused grime removal.

The high-pressure water jets into the now-loosened dirt, debris, oil residue and lifts it away from the cleaned surface below for quick removal. Rinsing also washes away any soap residue.

Step 5 – Scrub Tough Areas

For surface stains that don’t budge with spray alone, scrub brushes come out. Scrubbing uses manual friction from natural bristle brushes along with the pressurized spray for heavy discoloration or stubborn contaminants embedded in finishes like wood or concrete.

Step 6 – Final Rinse & Inspection

A final pressure rinse removes any leftover traces of debris, soap, or grime after cleaning. The technician thoroughly scans the area whilst spraying for spots that need additional attention. Doing a final wipe-down with rags or squeegees gives a streak-free appearance.

Step 7 – Protect & Maintain Clean Surfaces

Once completed, careful surface protection maintains the cleaned appearance longer. Sealing porous surfaces like concrete, maintaining wood finishes annually, and frequent exterior power washing keep homes looking their best. Avoiding direct-spray contact from sprinklers also reduces future buildup.

Why Choose Advanced Pressure Washing For Your Project?

Advanced Power Washing provides superior professional pressure washing services in North Canton, Ohio, plus surrounding areas. Our pressure washing experts have the knowledge, tools, and techniques to handle commercial buildings, residences, outdoor venues, and specialized cleaning projects while respecting surfaces and property.

We offer pressure washing in North Canton for:

· Homes

· Decks

· Patios

· Driveways

· Sidewalks

· Rooftops …and more!

Our Promise to You

When you choose Advanced Pressure Washing, you can have total confidence in:

· Highly Trained Technicians: All operators complete extensive safety & equipment training along with ongoing skill upgrades. We follow industry best practices.

· Latest Equipment: We invest in commercial-grade pressure washers, top detergents, specialty wands, and accessories for optimal cleaning.

· A Spotless Work Site: We use protective coverings and remove all debris when done so you come home to a clean property.

· Respect Your Surfaces: Proper chemical dilution and pressure adjustments prevent surface damage from occurring.

· Available Add-Ons: Ask about our deck staining, chalk paint removal, graffiti elimination, and exterior sanitizing services.

Call or Click Today for a Free Quote on Pressure Washing Services!Does your home’s exterior or commercial building need pressure washing services near me? Contact Advanced Pressure Washing to request a no-obligation quote today at (330) 295-3917. Our technicians service North Canton plus Jackson Township, Osnaburg Township, and Plain Township nearby. Let us make the outside of your property look its very best!