Get matched with top pressure washers in Cushing, MN

While power washing isn't a requirement before you stain a fence, it can make the job much easier and faster while reducing manual labor requirements. The stain will not work if the wood is full of dirt and dust, so power washing, sometimes called pressure washing, is a fast and effective way to prepare the wood for staining. Remember that you need to stain or repaint relatively soon after the wood has dried so that there isn’t time for dust and dirt to build up again. 

The ideal PSI (pounds per square inch) for a pressure washer depends on the surface you are cleaning. For general home use, a pressure washer with a range of 2,000 to 3,000 PSI is recommended and powerful enough for most residential projects.

The specific PSI you should use varies by task:

• High-Pressure Tasks (2,500-3,000 PSI): Tough materials like concrete, stone, masonry, and brick can handle higher pressures. This is suitable for removing stubborn stains from driveways or cleaning graffiti.

• Low-Pressure Tasks (around 600-1,300 PSI): Softer surfaces require a gentler touch to avoid damage. Use a low PSI setting for cleaning wood decks (especially softwoods like pine and cedar), vinyl siding, outdoor furniture, and stucco.

For best results, choose the right nozzle for your surface, such as a 15-degree nozzle for siding or a surface cleaner attachment for driveways. Using an extendable wand can also make the work easier and more ergonomic.

You should always hook up your pressure washer to the water supply before turning it on and ensure there’s a good water flow. If you try to turn the machine on without water in the system, it overworks and overheats the unlubricated pump. This can quickly lead to irreversible damage.

Pressure washing is a great way to take care of built-up messes much more easily and quickly than manual scrubbing. Pressure washing can save you energy, time, and even money by getting rid of contaminants that can lead to damage to your home. It can also increase curb appeal if you’re getting ready to make a home sale.