Best pressure washers near Sidell, IL

Some hard surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt, tolerate pressure washing well, and it can be a great way to keep them clean. However, you should avoid pressure washing clay or grass as you'll quickly destroy them.

Additionally, pressure washing can remove paint lines from any surface, so you need to be careful, and it may be best to let professionals handle the job.

You should avoid using a pressure washer on any surface or item that could be damaged by the high-pressure spray, as some materials are too delicate to withstand the force.

Key items and surfaces to avoid include:

• Electrical Components: Never pressure wash electrical systems, as water can cause short-circuits and create a safety hazard. This includes utility meters, breaker boxes, electrical outlets, generators, and HVAC or air conditioner units.

• Delicate and Fragile Materials: Fragile items can crack, shatter, or be stripped by the pressure. Avoid pressure washing windows, glass, light fixtures, shingled roofs (especially asphalt), and stucco.

• Painted, Stained, or Sealed Surfaces: Unless your goal is to strip the finish, do not pressure wash painted surfaces, stained wood (like decks), or anything with a protective seal that could be stripped away. Be especially cautious with older surfaces that may contain lead paint.

• Soft Woods and Certain Decking: Delicate surfaces like softwood, composite decking, and antique or wooden patio furniture can be etched or damaged. If you must wash wood, use a lower-powered pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage.

• Living Things: Never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force can cause serious injury and will destroy landscaping.

The recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) for cleaning vinyl siding can vary, so it's best to consult the manufacturer's guidelines. Generally, vinyl siding can handle high pressure, from 2,500 to 3,500 PSI. For comparison, more delicate materials like wood and aluminum siding should not face more than 1,500 PSI. To safely disperse the pressure on vinyl, use a tip with a wider spray span, such as a green (25-degree) or yellow (15-degree) nozzle. For routine cleaning of light dirt, a garden hose with a spray nozzle may be sufficient. Always exercise caution to avoid using excessive pressure that could damage the siding.

You should always power wash your driveway before applying a sealant. At any given time, your driveway could be covered with algae and moss, tire residue, oil and rust stains, and any combination of leaves, twigs, and dirt. If you skip power washing, you’ll be trapping the dirt and grime beneath the sealant and lowering its chance of cementing itself to your driveway. While you can expect the cost to pressure wash your driveway to average between $100 and $350, the few hundred dollars beats an unattractive driveway or paying extra to reapply your driveway sealer.