This Pressure Washer Mistake Can Ruin Surfaces in Seconds

We’ve all done it. You’re pressure washing your house, driveway, or deck and you come across a stubborn stain that simply doesn’t want to submit to 1,800 PSI of water pressure. Unwilling to give in, you push that pressure washer nozzle closer to the surface to take out that stain. It’s a risky move. A second or two is all it takes for that high pressure water to leave behind permanent damage to your siding, driveway or car. Think twice before you push that nozzle closer to the surface. 

Related: Why Pressure Washers Cause Thousands of Injuries Every Year

Don’t Stand So Close To It

Pressure washers produce tremendous cleaning power in the form of pressurized water. When you move that nozzle close to the surface that you’re cleaning, it concentrates all of that power into one small area, dramatically increasing the potential to damage that surface. Here’s what happens when you get too close:

• Concrete: Think concrete can withstand anything? Think again. High pressure can create etching, lines, and even strip the surface.
• Wood decks: Pressure washing is a common solution for cleaning decks. But use too much pressure and it can splinter wood and raise the grain by shredding the wood’s soft outer fibers. Softwoods like pine and cedar are at the greatest risk for pressure washer damage.  
• Siding: Holding that tip too close to your siding can crack or dent it. You can also force water behind the siding, which can lead to water damage and mold growth. 
• Painted Surfaces: high pressure water can peel the paint off of surfaces if you hold the tip too close. It can even take the clear coat off of a vehicle or sealant off a deck.

Pressure Wash From A Distance

While you don’t need to stand far away from the object you’re cleaning, you do need a safe buffer between your wand and the surface. 

Keep Your Distance

As a rule of thumb, keep a distance of between 10 and 12 inches between the wand tip and the surface. Start a few feet away and slowly get closer to the surface until you hit that just right spot for cleaning. 

Related: Never Use This Pressure Washer Nozzle

Don’t Linger

Don’t keep the wand aimed at any one area for too long. Keep the wand moving backwards and forwards in overlapping motions so pressure doesn’t build up in one area and cause damage. If you need to move close, do so gradually while continuing to move the wand back and forth. 

Test First

If you’re unsure about the water pressure, spray an inconspicuous area on the siding or driveway first to see if it damages the surface. 

Spray at an Angle

Spray at a 45 degree angle as opposed to directly at the surface to deflect grime and water away. 

Use the Right Nozzle

Along with distance, it’s also important to use the right nozzle. Stay away from 0 degree and 15 degree nozzles, which can easily damage siding and concrete, and instead opt for wider fan 25 degree and 40 degree nozzles. 

Note: Placing the nozzle too close to material isn’t just dangerous for concrete, siding, and vehicles, it can also be dangerous for you. Never place the nozzle of a pressure washer close to people or pets as it can cut thorough flesh, causing serious injury. 

Bottom Line

While it’s tempting to move the nozzle of a pressure washer wand closer to stubborn grime and stains in an effort to remove them, it can quickly become costly. Maintain a buffer between the tip and the surface while also using good technique and the right nozzle to get the best results without overdoing it.