If you’re looking for a way to spruce up your dull, tired-looking garden without breaking the bank, have you considered investing in a pressure washer? A pressure washer is the ultimate tool for achieving professional-level cleaning results with minimal effort, creating a clean exterior that transforms a property and enhances its curb appeal.
Cleaning your patio, decking or driveway has never been easier with a pressure washer. With the right tools and techniques, you can turn your garden into a pristine outdoor oasis, so a pressure washer is a must-have domestic gardening tool every homeowner needs.
Whether you’re a gardening novice or a seasoned pro, these easy pressure washing tips will help you achieve stunning results that will leave your outdoor space looking brand new. Discover how to use a pressure washer and achieve a clean, pristine finish no matter the surface.
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8 tips for using a pressure washer
Say goodbye to exterior dirt, grime, mould and mildew with a high-quality pressure washer. High-pressure water streams blast away any unwanted and unsightly debris, leaving a polished appearance to be proud of.
You can avoid hours of backbreaking cleaning and scrubbing with a pressure washer, but understanding how to use it properly is key to achieving the best results. Here are our top pressure washing tips.
- First and foremost, understand the machine you’re using. Pressure washers have various power levels, and different pressure settings produce different results. Lower pressure settings suit delicate surfaces, while higher pressure is needed for tougher cleaning jobs.
- Read and familiarise yourself fully with the machine’s user manual to understand its features, settings and any recommended safety precautions.
- Properly prepare with the correct safety gear and precautions to prevent injury or damage. This includes wearing safety glasses, hearing protection and closed-toe footwear where possible.
- Choose the correct nozzle for the job. Wide-angle nozzles can be used on softer surfaces, whereas narrow nozzles are better suited for tougher areas. If you’re unsure, start with the broadest nozzle and adjust as needed.
- Turn on the water and start by cleaning a small area, then clean section by section. Before tackling large surfaces, test the pressure washer on an inconspicuous area (such as a corner) to ensure it won’t damage anything. If you’re happy with the results, proceed with the remaining area. Working in manageable sections is recommended for consistent results.
- Be mindful of your surroundings. If you have delicate plants or flowerbeds near the area you’re pressure washing, be sure to cover them or move slowly around the edges to prevent damaging your greenery from the high-pressure water stream.
- Maintain the look with regular cleaning. Making pressure washing your garden part of your routine maintenance will prevent a build-up of dirt and grime from causing an unsightly appearance.
- Properly store your equipment to prevent damage. When not in use, keep your pressure washer in a cool, dry place to keep it in good condition and ready for use when you need it.
How to pressure wash decking
Depending on the material used, wood decking can be quite soft and delicate when wet. Using a pressure washer to clean your garden decking is a great way to restore its appearance, though you must consider the settings on your machine before use.
Prepare your deck by sweeping as much loose debris away as possible and applying a suitable pretreatment solution that can soak into thick grime to soften it. Activate your pressure washer and set it to a medium setting, using a fan nozzle attachment to create a wide spray pattern.
How to pressure wash a patio
Before pressure washing your patio, remove furniture, plant pots and other items to create a clear workspace. This helps ensure that any items you don’t want to get dirty from the sprayback are kept clean. Also, use a broom to sweep away any leaves or other loose debris sitting on the concrete surface.
Spray a suitable patio cleaning detergent onto the floor and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to remove stubborn stains easily. Use the pressure washer to rinse away the solution and leave a clean finish, starting at the opposite side to where the water drains.
How to pressure wash a driveway
Ensure your driveway is free of obstructions, and protect any windows and doors directly next to the area you want to pressure wash. Once the space is clear, apply a driveway cleaning detergent to the surface.
Using a small nozzle with a high-pressure setting, maintain a steady movement across each area of your driveway, working side to side for the best results. Driveways can get quite dirty due to being a high-traffic exterior space. So, if there are stubborn areas, such as oil stains or tyre marks, try moving your pressure washer slightly closer but without damaging the surface. The additional force can blast stubborn dirt and clean your driveway effectively.
Pressure washers from Gustharts
Pressure washing is a game-changer for garden maintenance, offering beginner-friendly solutions that deliver professional-level results. To keep your property’s exterior looking spotless, invest in a high-quality pressure washer from Gustharts. We offer a range of lightweight and easy-to-use Stihl pressure washers, perfect for tackling dirty decking, patios and driveways.
