Get matched with top pressure washers in Clanton, AL

While it can be a good idea to learn how to pressure wash brick to remove oils, algae, and debris from the surface, pressure washing isn't a good option for getting rid of white stains on brick. While you may get good temporary results, pressure washing can actually make efflorescence worse once the brick dries because the process pushes salt deeper into the brick. In addition, the intensity of pressure washing can damage brick.

It is generally not recommended to use dish soap in a pressure washer. Dishwashing liquid is formulated for cooler water, and the warmer water used in a pressure washer can create excessive suds, potentially damaging the machine's tubing and other components. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended detergents. If you find yourself in a pinch, you can try a highly diluted solution, such as one tablespoon of dish soap per 1.5 quarts of water, to avoid clogging the machine.

It takes about 15 minutes per each side of an exterior house to apply detergent and 15 minutes to remove it, so you’ll need roughly two hours for the whole job. However, that length of time may decrease or increase depending on the size of your home, so always budget a little more than expected to ensure you don’t end up rushing to get it done.

You could void your roof warranty using a power washer if you have a newer roof. With an older roof, you could knock loose older shingles. On the other hand, some people safely use a pressure washer to remove moss from a metal roof. Although you may want to use a pressure washer, the truth is that you probably don’t need it to knock moss loose. A garden hose and brush will do the job just fine and in a safer manner than a pressure washer.