Pressure Washing Tips for a Spotless Home Exterior

Got a power washer and a pile of grime? You can make your driveway, deck, or siding look new in a few hours. The key is using the right pressure, the right nozzle, and the right technique. Below are the practical steps that actually work, plus safety pointers to keep you and your property safe.

Set Up the Right Pressure and Nozzle

Start by checking the PSI (pounds per square inch) rating on your washer. For most house siding and decks, 2,000‑2,500 PSI is enough. Anything higher can strip paint or damage wood fibers. If you’re cleaning a concrete driveway, you can bump it up to 3,000 PSI, but stay under 3,500 to avoid etching the surface.

Next, pick a nozzle. A 0° (zero-degree) tip shoots a pinpoint stream—great for stubborn oil stains but risky on paint. A 25° or 40° tip gives a wider spray that cleans quickly without digging into surfaces. Most jobs are handled best with a 25° nozzle.

Prep, Wash, Rinse – The Three‑Step Routine

Prep: Sweep away loose debris first. Dirt left on the surface will act like sand and scratch the material when the water hits it. If you’re tackling mold or mildew, spray a mix of water and a little dish soap or a biodegradable cleaner and let it sit for five minutes.

Wash: Hold the wand about 12‑18 inches from the surface and move it in smooth, overlapping strokes. Work from the top down so dirty water runs off the area you’ve already cleaned. Keep the wand moving; staying in one spot too long can burn paint or wood.

Rinse: Switch to a low‑pressure rinse (or the same nozzle at a wider angle) and wash away the soap. Rinse from the top again to push any leftover suds down the wall. A final rinse with plain water leaves no residue and helps you spot any missed spots.

For stubborn grease on a driveway, increase the pressure a notch and use a degreaser before you start. Let the degreaser work for a few minutes, then rinse. For wood decks, avoid high pressure; stay under 2,000 PSI and use a 40° tip to prevent splintering.

Safety matters as much as the cleaning itself. Wear waterproof gloves, safety glasses, and closed‑toe shoes. Never point the wand at people, pets, windows, or electrical outlets. If you have an electric washer, keep the cord away from water to avoid shocks.After you finish, turn off the machine, release any built‑up pressure, and store the wand and hose properly. This extends the life of your equipment and saves you money on repairs.

Using these simple pressure washing tips, you can tackle most exterior cleaning jobs yourself, keep your home looking fresh, and avoid costly professional fees. Just remember: the right pressure, the right nozzle, and a steady, overlapping motion are the secret sauce for a grime‑free finish.