Power Washing Myths

Pressure washing is much more than just spraying a surface with high-water pressure. There is literally an entire industry built around which I have used to feed my family. There is a reason why you see so many companies offering power washing services. With that being said, many of these companies do not use proper techniques and this can cause costly repairs. This is often due to the many myths and misinformation that is on the internet and YouTube.

If you are a DIY type of person then I strongly suggest you keep reading this and even our other articles. It is important that people read and understand the truths about this industry, the good and the bad.

professional power washing versus do it yourself

Myth 1: Pressure Washing Works For Any Surface

Fact: Let me start by saying many people use the terms pressure washing and power washing synonymously. However, pressure washing is also sometimes used to describe the specific technique of using high water pressure. Simply put, high pressure is used for stubborn stains and grime on certain surfaces. High pressure is safe on concrete, stone, metal and sometimes wood and pavers. Most other surfaces are too delicate for high pressure and will be destroyed. For those surfaces, “soft washing” can be used to reach the same results if not better. This technique utilizes lower water pressure combined with a cleaning detergent (often a water and bleach mix). This combination will safely clean many delicate surfaces including roofs, siding, cedar shake and more.

before and after of brick paver patio power washed

Myth 2: Pressure Washing is Only For Large Properties

Fact: That’s a silly myth, but I have heard it many times. Pressure washing and soft washing is great for properties of all sizes. Let’s be honest, cleaning anything will improve its appearance and life-span, no matter its size. Now depending on other factors, some structures or surfaces may need pressuring washing more often than others, but they can all benefit from it.

Myth 3: Pressure Washing Detergent Is Harmful

Fact: This is not really a myth because it can be true…sometimes. The vast majority of power washing solutions are a mix of water and sodium hypochlorite (bleach). Everybody knows bleach can be harmful if not used properly. That is why we also pre rinse and post rinse all plants, furniture, grass and any surrounding areas of the surface being cleaned. Furthermore we also use an eco-friendly cleaning detergent that is safe for pets and humans while containing no bleach. The problem with these detergents is the cleaning results do not hold a candle to the sodium hypochlorite mixture.

before and after power washing of a wooden dock in Monmouth County, NJ

Myth 4: Pressure Washing is Easy to Do Yourself

Fact: I hear this all the time, close to everyday and it is a misconception. Can anybody power wash? Yes. Can you buy a power washer at Home Depot and clean surfaces with it? Yes. Will a professional do a much better job? Absolutely. Furthermore, the key is in the experience. You must have the knowledge of which techniques to use on which surfaces. Know how to protect different surfaces from damage. I often get calls from people who tried the DIY approach prior to calling, and now they are asking for us to complete the job properly. So the short answer, yes you can, but your results will not look nearly as good as a professional.

Myth 5: Professional Pressure Washing is Expensive

Fact: You get what you pay for. Sure, power washing can be expensive but so can cars, food or plumbing. Pressure washing is a service that improves appearances, sanitizes and prolongs the life of surfaces. If you would like professional results, then that is not free. Don’t forget, just like any service, you’re paying from somebody else’s knowledge, experience and to save yourself the time of learning and then doing it yourself. It’s worth it, I promise.

employee soft wash power washing vinyl siding in Fair Haven, NJ

The Truth

In conclusion, just know that there are many myths regarding power washing. I hope you understand that I am not trying to trick you or convince you of anything. If you would like to give DIY a try, go for it. If you want to ignore the power washing myths and would like a professional cleaning give us a call. Or any other professional company. However I do suggest reading reviews of whatever company you decide and also reading this article about what to ask a power washing company.