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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 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.

You can put a gentle cleaner such as distilled white vinegar, dish soap, or a degreaser in your pressure washer in a detergent injector. The attachment will mix your detergent with the water and spray it out. If you have stubborn stains on your driveway, a gentle cleaner in the attachment can help dissolve and remove those stains. Rinse the area with the pressure washer.

Yes, it is highly recommended to wash a house's exterior before painting to ensure the best results. Cleaning the surface removes dirt, dust, grime, mold, mildew, and old paint, which allows the new paint to adhere properly and results in a smoother, long-lasting finish. Failing to clean can lead to poor adhesion, peeling, and an uneven appearance. Pressure washing is an efficient method for this, but be cautious not to use excessive pressure that could damage siding or wood. For materials like vinyl or stucco, soft washing might be a better option. After washing, allow sufficient drying time, such as three to four days, before painting to prevent trapping moisture, which can cause blistering or peeling.