Power washing your brick home can efficiently remove dirt, grime, and stains that accumulate on the brick over time. The process can also increase the lifespan of your home by preventing mold and mildew growth. However, power washing your brick home can cause damage if not done carefully. Therefore, it’s essential to do it correctly to protect your investment.
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Here are some tips to help you power wash your brick home safely and effectively:
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1. Choose the Right Equipment:
Selecting the suitable power washer and the nozzle is critical to achieving optimal results without damaging your brick. If you don’t own a power washer, you can rent one from your local home improvement store. It would help if you chose a machine with a PSI (pounds per square inch) of 1,500 to 2,000 and a flow rate of 1.4 to 1.6 gallons per minute. This is strong enough to remove dirt and grime but not so strong that it will damage the brick.
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The nozzle that you select should also be carefully chosen. A 25-degree nozzle is recommended as it is strong enough to remove dirt but won’t damage the brick. A 15-degree nozzle may be too strong, and a 40-degree nozzle may not be strong enough.
2. Prepare Your Home:
Before starting the power washing process, close all windows and doors to prevent water from entering your home. Also, remove any outdoor furniture or decorations that may be in the way of the cleaning process.
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Cover any electrical outlets, light fixtures, or air conditioning units with plastic to protect them from water damage. Trim any nearby shrubs or trees to prevent them from getting damaged by the high-pressure water.
3. Apply a Cleaning Solution:
Applying a cleaning solution to your brick before power washing can help loosen dirt and grime, making it easier to remove. You can use a homemade or purchase a brick cleaning solution from your local home improvement store.
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When applying the cleaning solution, start at the bottom of the wall and work your way up to prevent streaking. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes to give it time to work.
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4. Begin Power Washing:
Once the cleaning solution has had time to work, you can begin power washing. Hold the power washer at a 45-degree angle and work up the wall from the bottom, thoroughly covering each section. Be sure to keep the nozzle moving to prevent damage to the brick. You should also avoid holding the nozzle too close to the brick, which can cause damage. Hold the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the wall.
5. Rinse the Wall:
Rinse the wall with clean water after power washing. Start at the top of the wall and work your way down, rinsing all Cleaning solutions off the wall.
6. Allow Time to Dry:
After you have rinsed the wall, allow it to dry completely before painting or sealing it. Depending on the weather conditions, this may take several hours to a full day.
7. Safety Precautions:
When power washing your brick home, it is essential to take safety precautions. Wear protective clothing, including goggles and gloves, to protect your eyes and skin from the high-pressure water. Avoid using a ladder or standing on a roof to reach high areas, as the high-pressure water can cause you to lose your balance.
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Power washing your brick home can be an effective way to keep it looking clean and new. However, if not done correctly, it can cause damage to the brick. Following these tips, you can safely and effectively power wash your brick home, keeping it looking its best for years. Remember to choose the right equipment and prepare your home. Get in touch with JD Power Washing Today
Get in touch with JD Power Washing Today:
Transform your home’s exterior and boost curb appeal with JD Power Washing in Montgomery County, PA. Our expert team can restore dull and stained surfaces, making them look brand new. We pride ourselves on providing professional and reliable services that will exceed your expectations. Our experienced and well-trained technicians use the latest equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean and protect your home’s brick surfaces.