Why Power Wash Your Window?
Getting your windows washed by professionals who use a pressure washer can be a great way to give your home an overall clean. However, many people may wonder why power wash your window, and there are a few signs it’s time to have them washed beyond just things looking dirty.
If the window frames are a dark color, they can become covered in mildew, moss or dirt that makes them look dingy and less attractive. The best way to get rid of these types of stains is with a power washer, as the high-powered water can help loosen and remove the buildup. However, using a pressure washer can also be risky if done improperly. The force of the water can damage certain softer materials, such as wood or vinyl, and can even break glass.
In addition to removing grime, dirt and debris from the windows themselves, washing with a power washer can also help remove the residue left behind by common household cleaning products. This residue can create streaks on the windows, and it is often difficult to remove without a professional.
Using a power washer to wash your windows is typically safe, provided the nozzle is set at a low setting. It’s important to wear close-toed shoes and keep a distance of at least three to five feet away from the windows. Using too much pressure can crack the glass, and spraying too directly can leave water spots and streaks on the windows. If you’re not comfortable with working with a power washer, it’s best to hire a your local pressure washing professionals in Alexandria to do the job. A qualified contractor will know the right techniques and equipment to use, including what type of detergent and what water pressure level is appropriate for each situation.
Before you start, make sure to cover any landscaping plants or shrubs with plastic or a covering and secure it to prevent them from getting wet. It’s also a good idea to take the opportunity to inspect and repair any damaged siding or window caulking around your windows. You may want to consider replacing any rotting or cracked wood window trim, too.
If you do decide to use a power washer, choose the white 40- or 65-degree nozzle to avoid causing damage to the glass or window frame. Also, it’s important to spray the windows obliquely rather than perpendicularly to avoid breaking any window putty that holds the glass in place. If you have children or pets, it’s a good idea to spray any window sills and exterior wood trim with the lower pressure nozzle to make sure it is not soaked by the water.
In addition, you should always rinse the windows immediately after washing to ensure that the detergent doesn’t have a chance to dry on the windows and stain them. The same is true for any wooden window frames. Lastly, you should be careful not to blast through the walls of your house with a powerful water stream, as this can get into wall cavities and soak through the insulation, causing mold, rotted wood and crumbling plaster. Likewise, if the windows are painted and the paint is lead-based, it can be blasted away with the water and end up in the soil, where kids and pets might play and ingest the lead chips.