Put Your Pressure Washer to Good Use Around the House

Your pressure washer sits in the garage collecting dust, but this powerful tool can tackle dozens of cleaning tasks around your property. From refreshing weathered decks to removing stubborn driveway stains, pressure washers deliver impressive results that save you time and effort. Here’s how to put your pressure washer to good use around the house.

Wooden decks accumulate dirt, mildew, and algae, which can make them slippery and unsightly. Your pressure washer quickly cuts through this buildup, but you need to use the right technique. Start with a wide-angle nozzle and keep the spray moving to avoid gouging the wood. Work with the grain of the wood, maintaining a distance of 12 to 18 inches from the surface. For composite decking, use lower pressure settings to prevent damage to the material.

Cars, trucks, and motorcycles benefit from pressure washing. Select the right nozzle when washing your vehicle—a 40-degree nozzle is ideal for most surfaces. Start from the top and work your way down, rinsing thoroughly before applying soap. Keep the nozzle at least two feet away from the vehicle to prevent paint damage. Never spray directly at windows, mirrors, or delicate trim pieces.

Vinyl siding, brick, and stucco accumulate dirt and stains over time. Pressure washing restores these surfaces to their original appearance. Use a detergent specifically designed for the material you’re cleaning. Apply the cleaning solution from bottom to top, then rinse from top to bottom. This strategy prevents streaking and soap residue from staining the lower sections.

Concrete driveways and walkways develop oil stains, tire marks, and general discoloration. Pressure washing removes these blemishes effectively. Pre-treat oil stains with a concrete cleaner and let it sit for several minutes before washing. Use a narrow-angle nozzle for stubborn stains, but switch to a wider pattern for general cleaning. Work in sections to maintain consistent results across the entire surface.

Lawnmowers, garden tools, and outdoor furniture accumulate grass clippings, dirt, and debris. Your pressure washer cleans these items quickly without the need for scrubbing. Remove grass buildup from mower decks to prevent corrosion and improve cutting performance. Cleaning garden tools extends their lifespan and prevents the spread of plant diseases.

Pressure washers generate a significant amount of force that can cause injury or property damage. Wear safety glasses and closed-toe shoes when operating the equipment. Never point the spray at people, pets, or windows. Test the pressure on an inconspicuous area before cleaning visible surfaces. Use appropriate pressure settings for different materials—what works for concrete may damage wood or vinyl.

Using your pressure washer will transform routine maintenance tasks into quick, satisfying projects. Regular use of this versatile tool keeps your property looking its best while preventing costly repairs caused by accumulated dirt and debris. Master these techniques and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without this powerful cleaning companion.