Summerville Pressure Washing is a powerful cleaning method that blasts away dirt, mildew, mold and other organic materials. It is best suited for routine maintenance and cleaning moderately dirty concrete surfaces.

When using a power washer, it is important to always rinse the surface before washing and spray consistently. It is also necessary to keep the nozzle a minimum of 12 inches away from the surface to avoid etching or damaging it.
Pressure washing is a quick, effective way to thoroughly clean surfaces. The forceful stream of water dislodges dirt, grime, and biological growths such as mildew in a fraction of the time required for scrubbing. It also helps remove the organic material that mold thrives on, ensuring that mold spores have nowhere to hide. In combination with appropriate cleaning solutions, it can also kill mold spores on contact, further preventing future growth.
To maximize cleaning efficiency, it is important to choose the right equipment and follow the correct procedure. Professional pressure washing services can offer advice on the right cleaning equipment and chemicals to use for each surface type, ensuring that the best results are achieved. It is also important to keep the nozzle at a safe distance from the surface, and to start at the highest point of the area being cleaned, moving downward in sections. This prevents damage to the surface and ensures that all areas are cleaned thoroughly.
Mildew is a persistent problem for homeowners, with mildew spores frequently settling on various indoor and outdoor surfaces. When left unchecked, mildew can cause structural damage and trigger health problems such as respiratory issues, allergies, and skin sensitivity.
While pressure washing is a popular and effective initial remedy for mildew, it can be difficult to maintain a mildew-free environment with this method alone. In conjunction with other preventative measures, such as improving drainage, ensuring adequate ventilation, and routinely cleaning gutters and downspouts, pressure washing can help reduce the likelihood of mildew development and improve the longevity of clean surfaces.
In the future, it is likely that pressure washing will continue to evolve, both in terms of technology and environmental considerations. For example, pressure washing systems may become more efficient in terms of water usage and environmentally friendly detergents might be used to ensure that no harmful chemicals are discharged into the surrounding ecosystem. These advances, coupled with proactive preventative measures, will further enhance the efficacy of pressure washing as a mildew treatment. However, addressing the underlying conditions that allow mildew to flourish is vital for long-term success.
Removing Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew aren’t just unsightly, they can be dangerous to your health. When mold spores come in contact with your skin they can trigger asthma, allergic reactions, and other respiratory problems. Regularly cleaning your exterior surfaces can help prevent the build-up of these harmful microorganisms. But scrubbing alone is not enough to fully remove mildew and mold from surfaces like concrete, wood, and vinyl siding. Luckily, the specialized water jets of pressure washing can dislodge deeply ingrained dirt and grime that is feeding mold and mildew colonies.
When combined with appropriate cleaning solutions and detergents, pressure washing can also kill mold spores and mildew at the source. The powerful jets of water penetrate deep into porous surfaces, eliminating the root systems and preventing future growth. In addition, the ability to vary the water pressure and nozzles makes it easy for experts to adjust the cleaning process to the specific surface being cleaned.
The best way to keep mold and mildew from forming is by starving it of the food sources it feeds on. Leaves, grass cuttings, dirt, twigs and other organic debris can cling to outdoor surfaces and provide a buffet for mold and mildew. Cleaning regularly can help reduce the amount of food available for these organisms, but if it has already taken hold, power washing is the only effective solution.
While it’s important to starve mold and mildew of the food it needs to thrive, it is equally vital to clean off existing colonies in order to prevent them from returning. While mold and mildew grow on a variety of surfaces, they are particularly fond of concrete and other masonry materials. Because of this, removing them from these surfaces is often a difficult task. However, the specialized water jets of pressure wash can easily remove these substances and restore surfaces to their original luster.
The key to removing mold from concrete is using the right cleaner and adjusting the pressure settings accordingly. Some types of concrete, like masonry block or flagstone, cannot be power washed at all, and others can only be power washed very lightly. However, the use of a special degreasing chemical can allow these materials to be power washed at much higher pressures without damaging them.
Cleaning Roofs
Your roof protects your home, and it is important to keep it in good condition. Dirty roofs can cause a variety of problems including rotting, moss, and mould. They also decrease the life of your shingles, and they can lead to leaks in your home. Regular roof cleaning helps you avoid these problems and maintain your property’s value.
A clean, moss-free roof increases your property’s curb appeal and makes it easier to see potential problems like leaks or holes. In addition, it can help you save money on energy bills by keeping your home cooler and preventing heat loss. If you decide to pressure wash your roof, it is important to use the right equipment and cleaning solution. It’s also best to have someone else assist you to prevent injuries and damage.
Pressure washing blasts dirt from surfaces with high-pressure water, between 1300-2800 PSI. It’s ideal for hard, durable surfaces such as concrete, stone, and wood, but it can be too harsh for some delicate surfaces such as vinyl siding and asphalt shingles. If you are using a pressure washer on your roof, be sure to use a low-pressure setting and use a biodegradable cleaning solution that is safe for your roofing materials.
Spraying your roof with pressurized water may seem like a quick and easy way to remove stains, but it’s actually dangerous and can cause serious damage. The granules that protect your shingles from sun and rain are removed by the water, leaving them weak and prone to breaking. In addition, the high water pressure can cause cracks or make small holes in your shingles. These holes allow water to leak into your home, leading to expensive repairs and costly replacements.
If you are planning to pressure wash your roof, it’s important to consult with a professional roofer to ensure that you’re using the right equipment and cleaning products. They can recommend the appropriate cleaning method for your roof and advise you on personal safety measures. In addition, they can help you choose the right cleaners and tools to get the job done quickly and safely.
Cleaning Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homes, as it is low-maintenance and durable. However, it can also be prone to mold and mildew buildup. Fortunately, you can keep your vinyl siding looking like new with regular pressure washing. This process removes dirt, grime and other debris from the surface of the vinyl to prevent stains and make your home look new again. It is important to choose the right cleaning solutions for vinyl siding and use a proper pressure washer setting to avoid damaging the material.
Before you begin power washing, scan your area for any open electrical components and cover them to protect them from high-pressure water. Also, make sure that any plants or shrubs near your vinyl siding are covered to prevent damage from the spray of the washer.
Start by rinsing away any loose dirt and debris with the pressure washer at a low-pressure setting. This will prepare the surface for the cleaner. Once the surface is clean, you can apply the cleaning solution with a sprayer or an injector that attaches to the pressure washer. The type of injector you choose depends on the specific cleaner you are using. Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is an effective cleaner for removing stubborn dirt, grime and mildew. Vital Oxide is a hospital-grade disinfectant that works well on mold, grime and bacteria. Coil degreaser is another good option for vinyl siding, as it can be used at a lower PSI and is safer on the environment than traditional solvents.
When it comes to choosing a PSI for the power washer, 1,300-1,600 PSI is ideal for cleaning vinyl siding. This level of pressure is enough to thoroughly clean the surface of the vinyl but will not cause any damage. You should also use a wide-angle spray nozzle, such as a 25- or 40-degree nozzle, to avoid damaging the siding.
Regularly pressure washing your vinyl siding can help you maintain its durability and prevent expensive repairs in the future. It is a great way to improve the appearance of your home and also increase its lifespan by preventing the formation of harmful contaminants on the exterior.