This article explains how best to use pressure cleaners on a patio. The article goes on to identify best preperation and service techniques. Following such guides will result in effective pressure cleaning.
Pressure cleaners do a great job of cleaning driveways,
patios and other areas which are exposed to dust, dirt and moisture. Water under pressure can wash away layers of dirt, moss and mildew leaving the surface sparkling like new.
When it comes to cleaning out a patio with pressure cleaners, careful planning and preparation are needed. Since a patio will have at least one entry point into the house, the main concern will be to prevent water from being forced into the house during pressure cleaning. Since water is sprayed at high pressure by the cleaner, there is chance of it splashing or rebounding off surfaces into the house through open doors and windows.
Before you start cleaning with pressure cleaners, make sure that you have a reasonable amount of painter's plastic sheeting and tape handy. The first thing to do is to remove all moveable items that are on the patio, like patio furniture and potted plants. Keep these well away from the patio to prevent sprayed water falling on them.
Give special attention to windows or doors that lead into the house from the patio. Close them and cover them with the plastic sheeting. Tape the sheeting securely and ensure there are no leaks.
Identify all electric outlets near the area to be cleaned. Cover these with duct tape. Use the tape from bottom to top, and overlap the previous row each time, so that water does not seep in through gaps.
Cover all items that cannot be moved away from the patio with plastic sheeting, and tape securely. Lightly spray the foliage of plants that cannot be moved, tie them back and cover them with plastic sheeting.
Check how water is going to be drained away from the patio. Plan to start pressure cleaning farthest from this point and work towards the drainage point. This will normally imply working from the high areas first and then moving towards the lower areas. Once you have cleared the patio, covered remaining things and worked out your direction you can start with the actual pressure cleaning.
Essential is adjusting the pressure nozzle of pressure cleaners to the right pressure. Take special care if you are pressure cleaning a wooden surface. Remember that if the pressure is too high it can damage wooden surfaces. If it is too low, cleaning will not be proper. Check if the pressure selected is adequate by trying it out on an out-of-the way section. Adjust if necessary. Start spraying with the nozzle away from the surface, and gradually bring it closer till you get the desired pressure. This will make sure that you do not hit the surface with excess pressure and damage it.
Make sure that all boards are cleaned completely along their entire length without leaving out sections to prevent unsightly marks. Move the nozzle smoothly and continuously over the area to be cleaned.
Ensure that all surfaces are completely dry before using electrical appliances and outlets in the washed area.
Though easy to use, pressure cleaners are a powerful tool and should be handled carefully. Pressure cleaning services are available on hire and can provide professional service at competent prices.
