Power Washing versus Pressure Washing

Power washing and pressure washing are often used interchangeably to describe the same thing: using a machine that pressurizes water as a cleaning tool. In reality, pressure washing and power washing are very similar, with one key difference—heat—that sets them apart.


Power Washing

Power washing describes the use of a pressure washer that heats the water. This extra heat, similar to when you’re washing dishes in the sink, can more quickly break down tough stains and dirt.


Pressure Washing

Pressure washers, on the other hand, have no heated water. They are somewhat gentler on surfaces. Power washers, when used incorrectly, can cause damage to surfaces such as concrete.


Improper Power Washing can Cause Damage

When done improperly, pressure or power washing can actually damage surfaces and materials. Not maintaining enough distance between the nozzle and the surface, using too much heat, using the wrong nozzle, or having too high of a PSI could all lead to damaged siding, wrecked concrete, moldy surfaces due to excess moisture, broken window seals, and more.

 

It’s recommended to hire a professional for many pressure washing jobs, because they know the best techniques and strategies for proper and effective washing. Care must be taken with all surfaces, from concrete to wooden walls, to prevent damage with either service.

The Value of Power Washing

Broke Slipper Painting uses a pressure washer for all power washing. That’s because most residential pressure washing jobs don’t require heated water. In commercial jobs, very large projects, and with expanses of concrete, the heated water can speed up the process.

 

Because Broke Slipper Paint focuses primarily on residential painting, Adam uses a pressure washer. It’s safer for surfaces and effective enough to do a spectacular job at removing dirt and grime from your home exterior, driveway, deck, patio, siding, windows, and doors.


The Benefits of Pressure Washing

Pressure washing can increase the value of your home by quite a bit. On average, anywhere between a $10,000 to $15,000 increase in sales price is projected. Considering the competitive pricing that Broke Slipper Painting offers, it’s a great return on investment.


In the long-term, regular paint maintenance with pressure washing also increases and preserves the value of your home, because consistent pressure washing protects your home from degradation. Especially for Hawaii homes located near the ocean, where salt air can be a problem, or homes in wetter regions, frequent power washing will save your house from much more costly repairs over time.


Power Washing for Curb Appeal

No one likes an eyesore on the street. Make your house stand out in the right way, by looking the very best in the neighborhood. Pressure washed siding looks worlds better than un-washed siding. Especially for homes that you’re planning to put on the market, pressure washing is an affordable strategy for adding curb appeal without breaking the bank.

 

Power Washing for Safety

Have you ever walked a pathway and almost slipped on the stones? Walked out onto your deck after the rainy season and felt mossy texture below your feet? Not only does pressure washing add value to your home, it also adds safety. Moldy driveways, walkways, and walking stones are serious safety hazards, especially for elderly family members and young children.

 

In Hawaii, where many homes are ohana style, with several generations living together, routine mold and mildew removal can keep your entire family safer.

Minimize Air Pollutants and Contaminants

Besides the slipping risks, mold, mildew, and dirt have spores. When they stay outside the home, there are usually no breathing issues. Many times in Hawaii, however, we leave the windows open to let in fresh air, or have screen doors. Those screens let in the fresh breezes and trade winds, but they can also let in spores and airborne contaminants.

 

Routine cleaning will reduce contaminants and help your family breathe easy knowing there are very few, if any, airborne spores floating around. Especially for families with young children, members with breathing problems, and older family, this can make a big difference in health.


Pressure Washing and Paint Maintenance go Hand in Hand

And, of course, pressure washing makes your paint last longer. Mold and build-up can fade, crack, and bubble paint. Maintain the quality and beauty of your paint with routine maintenance from Broke Slipper Painting.

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