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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.

Flat roofs are a solid option for people who want extra outdoor space. Flat roofs are very common in other parts of the world and only recently has the U.S. started to see the benefit in the increased space. Flat roofs are also easier to maintain and pose much less of a safety risk, which allows for more DIY work for handy homeowners. Some people also build green or living roofs that grow plant life. 

For the best chemicals to clean a metal roof, stick to gentle detergents such as dish soap, laundry detergent, or car-wash soap mixed in a diluted solution of ¼ cup of soap to 1 gallon of water. These mild cleansers are safe for most roof finishes but are still strong enough to remove remaining dirt particles. Chemicals like bleach or acids can damage your roof, poison landscaping and grass, and pose a hazard to you and your family. If your roof is very dirty or you think it requires chemical cleaning, call a roof cleaning professional.

In most cases, it is best to leave icicles on your roof and allow them to melt naturally. You should only remove them if they are heavy enough to cause damage to your home or pose a safety risk to people below. Attempting to remove icicles yourself can be dangerous, so if you are concerned about immediate damage, it is recommended to hire a professional. To prevent icicles from recurring, you should address the underlying cause, which is often poor insulation. Long-term solutions include improving your home's insulation or installing roof heating coils.