Have you looked at your home’s exterior and thought, “When did it start looking so lived-in?” Keeping up with maintenance can sometimes slip through the cracks of our busy lives, but it’s absolutely essential. It’s not just about curb appeal; it’s about safeguarding your property from potential damage.
Enter pressure washing — a solution that can remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants to restore your home’s shine.
Will it take up your entire weekend, though? Keep reading as we discuss the finer details and give you a clear timeline.
Understanding Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is like giving outdoor surfaces a deep, refreshing shower with more gusto. As the name suggests, this approach uses high pressure to tackle deep-seated contaminants and stains. It’s quick, efficient, and incredibly satisfying to watch, almost like removing a drawing with a magic eraser.
When done correctly, the technique can:
- Create a healthier space by reducing allergens
- Restore your home’s beauty
- Minimize surface wear
- Increase property value
Factors Affecting Pressure Washing Duration
A pressure wash project may take more or less time depending on the following:
Size of the House
A two-bedroom house will obviously take significantly less time to pressure wash than, say, a sprawling mansion. It’s all about surface area; more property means more space you need to cover. Intricate architecture also adds to the time, as it requires careful attention to address every nook and cranny.
Equipment Used
The difference between consumer-grade and cutting-edge commercial pressure washers is like night and day.
Professionals utilize potent machines with fine-tuned settings that adjust to various surfaces and degrees of buildup. A store-bought or rented kit might take a weekend to accomplish what an expert does in hours.
Experience Level
Even if you can access modern gear, there’s no substitute for expertise and training. Seasoned professionals can swiftly identify the most effective techniques for different materials and contaminants. This efficiency not only ensures finishing the job faster but also safeguards your home against potential damage from incorrect pressure settings or angles.
House Condition
A well-maintained home might only need a quick once-over, but one with years’ worth of buildup will require a more thorough, time-consuming scrub-down. That’s why it’s always in your best interest to seek regular upkeep.
How Long Does It Take to Pressure Wash a House?
If you need a specific time frame, let’s go over a few common examples:
2000 Square Foot House
A bigger house typically requires up to three hours for a comprehensive session. This isn’t set in stone, though. Challenges like extreme grime buildup, intricate design elements, or older surfaces needing extra TLC can extend the timeline.
Does the structure have multiple stories? Height adds another layer of complexity. Beyond the added surface area, it’s also about safely and effectively reaching those upper levels. It requires specific equipment, like longer hoses, ladders, or even bucket trucks for the highest spots.
1500 Square Foot House
An efficient pressure wash can spruce up a modest abode in two to three hours.
Don’t think that means any less attention to detail, though. Professionals will still give it the full treatment to ensure every inch gleams, just like a larger estate.
The surrounding environment also plays a factor. Nearby delicate flora or sensitive items may necessitate more cautious, thus time-consuming, cleaning methods to avoid collateral damage.
1000 Square Foot House
Do you own a cozy living space? If your property receives regular care or it’s relatively new, expect a swift process that could take about an hour and a half or two hours at most. Challenges like harsh weather effects or specific stains (like oil or graffiti) could extend this timeline.
Preparing for Pressure Washing
Getting your home ready for a pressure wash is simple but necessary. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Clear the area: Move cars, potted plants, and outdoor furniture away from your home’s exterior.
- Protect vulnerable items: Cover or remove delicate decorations and light fixtures.
- Secure openings: Shut tight windows and doors to prevent water from getting inside.
- Identify trouble spots: Point out specific areas of concern to the professionals, like stubborn stains or damaged surfaces.
Choosing the right time and weather for the big day is also crucial. You want a clear, mild day. Wind and rain may create delays and potential hazards.
Hiring Professionals vs. DIY
Do you plan to tackle the job yourself? We highly advise against it because you risk the following:
- Accidents: Picture balancing, trying to reach that top corner with the pressure washer, and oops! A slip could lead to a nasty fall; it’s all fun and games until someone ends up in a cast or worse.
- Property damage: Using electric pressure washers without the know-how is like wielding a sword blindfolded. They can create up to 4,000 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure, enough to strip paint, crack windows, and even etch into concrete if not handled correctly.
- Lackluster Results: Have you ever spent hours on a project and stepped back to admire your work, only to realize it does not look quite how you imagined? That’s often the case here: effort aplenty but an underwhelming outcome.
- Time wasted: Imagine all the things you could do instead of wasting your weekend battling with cold and hot water pressure washers — like catching up on your favorite series, bonding with family members, or just kicking back and relaxing. Sounds much better, doesn’t it?
A Trusted Exterior Cleaning Crew
A comprehensive pressure wash takes no more than a few hours to accomplish, but doing it yourself could become a never-ending and fruitless battle. Why risk the messy mishaps when a professional can handle it efficiently and effectively?
At Frank’s Pressure Washing, we have cutting-edge electric and gas pressure washer equipment and seasoned technicians who know how to use them. One glance at our track record of success, and you’ll see why we’re the go-to choice for property owners who demand the best. Reach out to us today by dialing 336-265-7367 for your pressure washing needs.