HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2019-10-24, Page 16PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2019.
Powerwashers becoming more available, affordable
MS – Powerwashing, also known
as pressure-washing, utilizes a high-
velocity water spray to remove dirt
and residue from the exterior
surfaces of a home. It is frequently
used on vinyl siding, concrete and
sometimes wood decks to treat
mildew and other growth that
accumulates over time.
Powerwashing can be a great way
to remove grime without having to
scrub by hand. But it requires a
delicate touch to get it right.
Sometimes it is best to leave the job
to professionals. But homeowners
willing to give it a go can try
powerwashing themselves, as
various stores rent power washers.
The home improvement website
ImproveNet says that, until very
recently, pressure washers were
almost exclusively commercial
machines sold to professionals or
rented to do-it-yourselfers. Lately
manufacturers have targeted
homeowners looking to buy with
lightweight options. For those who
see powerwashing as a routine
venture, purchasing a unit may be
worth the investment.
It is important to exercise caution
when operating a powerwashing
machine. The high-velocity spray
can tear through skin. It is key to get
a feel for the washer and try less
pressure first to get a handle on the
magnitude of the tool.
Don safety gear prior to using a
pressure washer. Gloves, eye
protection and ear protection can be
handy. Most units will connect to a
standard garden hose. Choose old
clothing and expect to get wet.
Never point a powerwasher hose at
anyone and do not attempt to rinse
feet or hands in the spray.
The renovation resource The
Family Handyman suggests starting
with a wide-degree nozzle to test out
the spray on the surface that needs to
be cleaned. A 15- or 25-degree
nozzle is usually the wand for
general cleaning and paint stripping
without damaging the surface.
Experiment with an optimal
distance of the washer wand to get
the desired cleaning effects without
causing any damage. Work using
a horizontal and slightly downward
angle to avoid driving water up
under the siding of a home.
Avoid spraying any electric wires
or components on the home. Also,
try not to spray upward, and angle
the spray away from doors, windows
and vents.
Some washers have reservoirs that
will hold a detergent solution.
Choose the right detergent for the
job. Keep in mind that cleansers
containing bleach can damage
surrounding plants, so they may
need to be covered while the
washing takes place.
Avoid the use of ladders when
operating a powerwasher. The push-
back from the wand can cause falls.
Instead, opt for an extension wand to
address the upper reaches of a
home.
Powerwashing a home is an
effective way to remove stubborn
grime and refresh the look of a
home's exterior.
Dave Franken
Concrete Forming Ltd.
R. R. #3 Blyth, Ontario N0M 1H0
Phone: 519-523-9971
Fax: 519-523-9604
For all your concrete needs
• Residential
• Commercial
• Agricultural
- Foundations
- Floor Finishing
- Circular Tanks
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Your Local Passive Home Builder
84772 McDonald Line • Box 616 • Brussels, ON
devonjhenry@hotmail.com • 519-505-2473
Devon Henry
LICENSED CARPENTER
Leadership in energy
and environmental design
Blasting away the grime
Powerwashers have recently become a more
commercially-viable way for homeowners to keep their
homes and decks clean. While the devices were previously
owned by professionals or rental stores, lighter units are
becoming more available for homeowners looking to tackle
cleaning projects on their own. (MS photo)
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