Pressure washing the side of your home might sound like a fun weekend project—but without the right experience, it can lead to more harm than good. In some cases, you could even end up damaging your home.
While some homeowners are equipped to handle the job, many aren’t aware of the risks involved. That’s why hiring professional pressure washers is often the smarter, safer choice. Let’s take a look at when DIY pressure washing might not be the best idea—and why calling in the pros is usually the better move.
Why DIY Pressure Washing Isn’t Always the Best
- Risk of Injury – High-pressure water from a pressure washer can cause serious injuries, including deep cuts, bruises, and eye damage if mishandled.
- Potential for Property Damage – Incorrect techniques during a DIY power washing attempt can strip paint, crack vinyl siding, or weaken decks and driveways.
- Expensive Equipment Costs – Equipment purchase for a DIY project can be costly, especially when needing additional nozzles, hoses, or accessories. Renting a pressure washer may seem like a budget-friendly alternative, but repeated rentals add up quickly.
- Lack of Knowledge – Without the right training, it’s easy to apply excessive pressure that leads to costly repairs.
- Inconsistent Results – Uneven cleaning, streaks, and missed spots often occur in DIY pressure washing projects, which can lead to a frustrating experience.
- Potential Water Waste – Without complete control over the water flow, you can use far more than needed.
- Chemical Handling Risks – Choosing the wrong cleaning solutions can damage exterior surfaces.
- Environmental Concerns – Unlike eco-friendly cleaning solutions used in professional power washing services, DIY users may unknowingly allow harmful chemicals to wash into storm drains.
- Time-Consuming Process – A pressure washing job can become overwhelming and time-consuming—especially when tackling large areas without professional pressure washing equipment.
- Limited Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas – Without specialized equipment, reaching high walls or rooftops can become incredibly difficult.
The Pros of Calling Professionals
It’s Much Safer For You
Water blasting from an electric pressure washer can be potentially dangerous. Handling a power washer without training puts your hands, feet, and eyes at serious risk.
In addition, slippery surfaces and powerful recoil can lead to falls, which makes DIY methods hazardous. Hiring a professional service eliminates these risks, as trained experts use proper safety techniques and professional-grade equipment to complete the job safely.
It’s Safer For Your Home, Too
Attempting DIY pressure washing without understanding the correct cleaning process can cause significant damage to exterior surfaces. Using too much pressure on vinyl siding, wood, or concrete can result in cracks, streaks, or water infiltration.
A professional power washing company knows when to apply a soft wash method and when to use high pressure, preventing costly repairs. Experts also use eco-friendly cleaning solutions that protect both the home and the surrounding environment.
Professionals Have the Right Training
A professional pressure washer understands different cleaning tasks, from safely treating delicate wood to removing deep-set stains from concrete. Knowledge of pressure washing equipment, cleaning techniques, and appropriate cleaning solutions ensures a thorough, damage-free result. A reputable pressure washing company will also assess the condition of surfaces beforehand and select the safest and most effective method for the job.
Pros Get the Job Done Faster
Experienced pros can complete a pressure washing project in a fraction of the time it would take a DIYer. Equipped with commercial-grade equipment, professionals can efficiently clean large areas while delivering consistent results.
In addition, professional power washing teams arrive prepared for the job with high-powered tools and advanced techniques. Instead of spending an entire weekend struggling with a pressure washing job and trying to learn how to use the equipment safely, hiring a professional ensures the task is completed quickly and effectively.
If You Want Your Home Pressure-Washed Professionally, Call Patriot Exterior Cleaning
The team at Patriot Exterior Cleaning specializes in pressure washing in Willis and will ensure the exterior surfaces of your home look brand-new! Additionally, we also offer window cleaning, roof cleaning, and more.
Call us today to schedule an appointment for your home!