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Get up to $150 off when you use us for pressure washing, window cleaning, roof cleaning, softwashing, and more during the month of March!
Residential - Commercial - Window Washing - Pressure Washing - Roof Cleaning - Gutters - And More!
Get up to $150 off when you use us for pressure washing, window cleaning, roof cleaning, softwashing, and more during the month of March!
The aesthetic appeal and longevity of brick homes have made them a favored choice for many homeowners over the years. Their rustic charm combined with durability offers a unique combination that is both eye-catching and long-lasting. However, maintaining the pristine appearance of these brick exteriors often brings homeowners to a crossroads, prompting the question: Is pressure washing in Lake Oswego a safe bet for brick homes?
As many homeowners and businesses know, pressure washing is an effective technique for removing dirt, grime, and stains from various surfaces. But bricks, with their porous nature and distinctive construction, bring their own set of challenges. Missteps in pressure washing can lead to unwanted damage, costly repairs, and diminished aesthetics. Hence, the decision to pressure wash brick homes isn’t one to be made lightly. Continue reading to learn about the brick composition, the effects of pressure washing, and best practices to ensure the safety and maintenance of your cherished brick exterior.
Since brick is mostly made of clay, which is heated to make a hard, durable surface, it is a natural material. In contrast, bricks are porous, which means they can easily soak up water and become damaged if not treated properly. We need to know more about what brick is before we can answer the question of whether pressure washing is safe for brick houses.
At the heart of the matter is the potential for pressure washing to damage brick surfaces. If done correctly, pressure washing can provide a deep clean, removing layers of dirt, grime, and even moss. However, a high-pressure stream of water can also lead to several problems:
Maintaining the beauty of brick homes requires specific care, especially when it comes to cleaning. Pressure washing, while effective, can pose risks if not done right. However, with due diligence and by following best practices, it’s possible to ensure a safe and effective cleaning for your brick facade. Let’s explore these practices in detail:
Before undertaking the significant task of cleaning the entire house, it’s crucial to start small. Choose a hidden or less noticeable section of your brick wall to test the pressure washer. This ensures that if any unintended damage occurs, it won’t be immediately visible.
By observing the results on this small patch, you can adjust your method accordingly, ensuring the rest of the process goes smoothly.
Every surface has its tolerance when it comes to pressure, and brick is no exception. PSI, which stands for pounds per square inch, denotes the pressure the washer exerts. For delicate surfaces like brick, a high PSI can be detrimental, causing surface erosion or even structural damage.
It’s recommended to start with a low PSI and gradually increase it if needed, always ensuring the brick isn’t getting damaged.
The spray pattern is the shape and spread of the water as it exits the nozzle. A narrow pattern can concentrate the pressure, increasing the risk of damage. A wide spray pattern, on the other hand, disperses the pressure more evenly over a larger area.
This reduces the direct force on any single point on the brick, minimizing the risk of erosion or damage.
The distance between the nozzle and the brick surface can make a world of difference. Holding the nozzle too close can intensify the impact, risking damage to the brick and mortar. On the flip side, holding it too far away may render the cleaning ineffective. Finding a balanced distance where cleaning is effective without risking damage is essential.
Typically, starting further away and slowly moving closer until effective cleaning is achieved without any visible harm is the best approach.
While DIY methods can be tempting to save some bucks, when it comes to delicate tasks like pressure washing brick homes, professional intervention can be invaluable. Expert teams come equipped with experience, knowledge, and the right tools.
Moreover, professionals often have commercial-grade equipment that provides better results and safety features than standard home-use pressure washers.
Squeegee Clean has been in the business of keeping exteriors spick and span since 2016. Whether it’s window cleaning, moss removal, graffiti removal, or pressure washing, our team has the expertise to do the job right. Focusing on both the residential and commercial sectors, we pride ourselves on providing a superior customer experience and tremendous value for our clients.
Our founder, Robert Coffman, brings years of hands-on experience to the table. His expertise in various cleaning domains ensures that we not only meet but exceed your expectations.
Squeegee Clean — Pressure Washing Perfection for Your Brick Home
Is pressure washing safe for brick homes? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While it can provide an excellent clean, it’s crucial to approach the task with caution and knowledge. Using the right pressure, maintaining a safe distance, and opting for a wider spray pattern can help ensure the longevity of your brick surfaces.
If you’re considering pressure washing your brick home, consider consulting with professionals to avoid potential pitfalls. At Squeegee Clean, we’re more than happy to lend our expertise. Want a quote? Let us guide you on the best approach tailored for your home. Reach out to us through our ‘Request an Estimate’ page and let us help you keep your brick home looking its best!
Sunny weather has come early to the Portland area! This has caused many homeowners and businesses to start reaching out to us early. Spring cleaning can be very stress relieving. But there is usually more to be done than you expect!
There are a few cleaning tasks that are best left to the professionals, such as window cleaning, pressure washing, gutter cleaning, and roof cleaning/moss removal.
If you have ever tried washing your own windows, you probably have noticed streaks and residue marks left behind. We use professional products and methods that eliminate that, and leave your windows crystal clear!
Pressure washing is a task that requires a lot of time. It is also easy to leave lines in your concrete. We have years of experience pressure washing, and guarantee a brighter looking surface!
Roof cleaning or moss removal can be very dangerous. Climbing on top of your roof isn’t something you usually look forward to. We have proper safety equipment to do it safely and effectively. We also use methods that will not damage your roof or plants!
Let us help you clean up your house! We also have Spring cleaning deals you can ask about.
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