Damaging Concrete with a Pressure Washer
Many do-it-yourself, handymen, handy-women, and homeowners like the idea of using a pressure washer to clean items or locations outside of their homes. Maybe they have a mildew situation on their exterior walls, or perhaps they would like to clean a brick or cement patio. Whatever the job, in most cases a hiring a pressure washer might just be your best bet.
In most cases a pressure washer is a beneficial tool to have on hand. The only problem with taking on these activities is that many lay people are not trained in choosing the right tip for the washer; knowing which psi is correct for different jobs, and which materials are pressure washer safe. Most people do not realize that a pressure washer if run incorrectly, can damage even concrete.
It is the tip of the nozzle on the hose that determines the angle of the flow. A tighter angle means more water is concentrated in a smaller area. However, this angle may cause abrasion and wear on the material being cleaned. Homeowners, when attempting to remove a stubborn spot or stain, may keep the tip at a concentrated angle which can result in damage to the surface, decreased work speed, and increased streaking.
Another tricky issue is that manufacturers have not chosen a standard marking for the tips used on a pressure washer. It is essential to check the stamping directly on the tip to ensure you are using the correct washing angle.
If your patio or driveway is in a shady area, over time mold and algae will build up over the winter. Surfaces that are older become more porous because of natural wear and tear. This porousness allows for more grime accumulation in a shorter period of time.
It is an excellent idea to call on a professional who can complete the job in a safe and high-quality manner. Contact Patriot Services in the Dallas, Ft. Worth area, for assistance in all your pressure washing needs.