Your home is one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime, and maintaining your home will help to protect your property value. In addition, keeping the exterior of your home clean and maintained is essential for maintaining the curb appeal of your house. One simple way to clean the outside of your home is with a power washer. Power washing (also called pressure washing) can help to remove everyday dirt and grime that can build up, as well as mold and mildew. But many homeowners wonder: can power washing damage the exterior paint of my home?

Power washing can damage your home’s exterior paint, if not done correctly. Read more to learn about tips and best practices for safe exterior house washing that will not ruin your home’s exterior finish.

Does Power Washing Really Damage Exterior Paint?

Power washing leverages heat with high-pressure water treatment to remove debris on your home’s exterior siding, driveways, patios, roofs and more. It is a quick and powerful cleaning solution, but it can be harsh on paint if it is not handled properly. Damage like chipping, peeling, water intrusion or surface etching can happen if you do not follow the proper steps.

Additionally, latex-based paints are more prone to chipping under high-pressure cleaning treatments, whereas oil-based paint finishes hold up better. How old your paint job is also plays a factor, as older paint may peel and will then get damaged with power washing services.

How to Power Wash Without Damaging Your Home’s Paint

If you do attempt to power wash your own home, it can be done safely with the right steps outline below. Make sure you follow the right steps to prevent damage while getting great results.

Use the Right PSI

A pressure setting of 1,200 to 1,500 PSI is considered safe. Anything above that may be too aggressive and can strip away your home’s exterior paint.

Choose the Right Nozzle

Make sure to use a 25- to 40-degree nozzle. This will offer a wider spray pattern and reduces the potential to chip the paint. Avoid the red 0-degree nozzle because it is too powerful and will cause damage.

Keep a Safe Distance

Hold the wand at least 12 inches away from the surface you are spraying. If you get too close you will increase your
risk of blasting off paint or damaging siding.

Consider Soft Washing

Soft washing uses a lower pressure combined with specialized cleaning solutions. This may be a great option for painted exteriors, delicate siding, or older homes.

Inspect Before You Wash

Thoroughly inspect your exterior for signs of peeling, cracking, and especially soft spots in the wood. These areas can require repairs or repainting before any pressure washing begins.

Know When to Call a Pro

DIY pressure washing can be risky without the right equipment or knowledge. Hiring a professional painting contractor or exterior cleaning service ensures your paint is protected throughout the process.

When It’s Time to Repaint Instead

There may be situations where the paint is simply too old or too worn out to withstand power washing services. Signs of this include the following:

Extensive peeling or bubbling
Large faded or chalky areas
Cracks in the surface paint

The above signs may signal that it is time to repaint your home’s exterior with a fresh coat of paint. In fact, repainting after you power wash your home can improve the adhesion, which will help your new paint job to last longer and look even better. At Arizona Painting Company, our painting specialists offer professional exterior painting services throughout the Phoenix Metro area as well as throughout Tucson. These services include the prep, cleaning and expert application of exterior paint so that your home looks great but also stays protected for years to come.

Peeling Paint Stucco | Arizona Painting Company

Protect Your Home’s Curb Appeal the Right Way

Power washing has to be done right in order to prevent unnecessary damage and costly repairs. A trusted painting company is highly trained on the right techniques to safely clean the outside of your home to protect your paint job.

Going with a contractor or unlicensed handyman who may not realize that their improper power washing techniques will cause moisture problems or further issues can end up costing you more in the long run. Our Arizona Painting Company specialists understand the scope of the job and will do the job right the first time – so trust the professionals for pressure washing your exterior.

Keep Exterior Paint Safe Throughout the Year with the Right Approach to Power Washing

Arizona Painting Company understands that the way your home looks on the outside makes you feel good on the inside. Contact our exterior painting specialists today for a free consultation on exterior painting services. We can even help with window cleaning. Our team is proud to help homeowners throughout Arizona protect their homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I power wash my home’s exterior?

Once a year is typically good for power washing your home’s exterior. If you live in an area that is exposed to more humidity or even a high dust area, a more frequent cleaning schedule may be needed.

Is power washing safe for all types of siding?

Power washing is a safe form of cleaning or treatment for materials like brick, concrete and stucco. Pressure washing or a soft washing technique may be better for surfaces like wood siding. A professional painting company will help determine what the best method of treatment is.

What is the difference between power washing and pressure washing?

Both are high-pressure water treatments, however power washing also uses heat to help with the removal of tough debris like grime, mold and grease. Pressure washing is better when heat is not necessary or could cause damage.

Will power washing increase my home’s value?

Yes! Part of your home value is your home’s curb appeal, and a clean, well-maintained exterior enhances your home’s overall aesthetics. Power washing is a quick and cost-effective way to refresh the look of your home.

Should I hire a professional for exterior power washing?

Yes! Although DIY power washing is possible, a professional company will have the right equipment and understand the techniques necessary for a safe treatment, as well as getting to hard-to-reach surfaces and delicate areas. A professional will also prevent damage that may result in more costly repairs.

Exterior Power Washing Services