Why Pressure Wash the Siding?
Should you pressure wash? To get a really good paint and or stain job it really starts with preparation. Let’s look at the very first step to achieving this.
Clean Surface
What you need is a good clean surface. Pressure washing the siding is the answer. General, you won’t be able to take off these fine particles unless they’re agitated with some sort of scrubbing motion.
The power washer has just enough friction to loosen up those particles. We like to use a commercial grade pressure washer within the area of 2,500 to 3,500 PSI. Remember though, it’s important not to get too close. We apply the water pressure about 12 to 18 inches away from the siding.
Should You Pressure Wash: Purpose
So what does pressure washing actually do? It removes those fine particles on the home that you really don’t notice. Cleaning the home also can remove mold, mildew and algae when a accompanied by a cleaning agent. It can also remove some natural staining such as tannins in the cedar.
Adhesion
You want to get the maximum adhesion of your paints or stains on the siding of your home. If you paint over those fine particles of dirt, algae, mold, and mildew, your chances for a paint or stain failure go up greatly. In my experience, I find that most paint failures are due to incorrect or not complete preparation.
Steps for Successful Paint Job
So let’s go through the steps for a successful paint job:
- Start with a good clean surface;
- Then take off loose and flaking stain or paint;
- Properly prime the surfaces, and finally
- Apply a good quality paint.
Chose the Right Contractor
So be careful who you hire to paint or stain your home. Make sure they are a professional company that understands all these steps, and they do them properly. Ask questions. Make sure they know these steps. Hopefully, this has helped you work through the details of a successful stain or paint job.
Don’t forget, if you need an estimate on pressure washing your house siding, give me a call. My team and I have been serving the Plainfield, Naperville, Lisle, Shorewood, Joliet, Oswego, Yorkville, and all of Chicago area for 30+ years.
