Ready to rejuvenate your home exterior? In this Greenworks guide, you’ll learn how to pressure wash your house with preparation tips, step-by-step instructions, and safety considerations that will make the job quick, clean, and simple.
Pressure washing your house is one of the best ways to refresh its appearance, remove built-up dirt and mildew, and maintain its curb appeal. But doing it the wrong way can damage your siding, windows, or trim! This guide walks you through how to power wash a house safely and effectively—from preparation to the most effective tools and techniques.
How to Prepare for Pressure Washing Your House
Before you fire up your pressure washer, it's important to properly prep your home and surroundings:
- Remove obstacles like outdoor furniture, garden hoses, and decorative items.
- Trim or cover plants and shield delicate landscaping.
- Cover or remove light fixtures and seal any openings like windows, doors, or electrical outlets with plastic sheeting or duct tape.
- Check the exterior for cracks, holes, or damaged areas and make repairs as needed to prevent water from getting inside.
Thorough preparation ensures a safer, cleaner, and more effective pressure washing experience.
Commonly Asked Question: What’s the best time to pressure wash my house?
Answer: Depending on where you live, the best time to pressure wash a house is in the spring and fall, specifically when temperatures are between 40 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows cleaning solutions to properly break down grime and gives surfaces time to dry thoroughly without freezing.
How to Choose the Right Pressure Washer for Your House
Not all pressure washers are created equal. The ideal model depends on the surface you're cleaning and the level of grime you're dealing with. For most home siding, a washer in the 1,500–2,000 PSI range is plenty. If your exterior is more durable—like vinyl—or if you’re tackling tougher areas like driveways, you may need something closer to 2,000–3,000 PSI.
Always use a fan-tip nozzle and maintain a safe distance between the spray and the surface. This reduces the risk of damage, especially on softer materials like wood.
In the market for a new pressure washer? Discover why Greenworks electric pressure washers are best in class !
Material Matters:
- Vinyl siding can withstand moderate to higher PSI.
- Wood and aluminum siding are more delicate and need lower pressure.
- Brick handles higher PSI well but be cautious not to erode mortar.
- Stucco: Avoid pressure washing unless using very low PSI with extreme caution. The surface is porous and prone to damage.
Commonly Asked Question: How do I pressure wash a 2-story home?
Answer: Aim for a washer with 2,000–3,000 PSI and a water flow rate of 2.5–3.5 GPM. This provides the power needed to clean taller areas effectively without using a ladder.
Explore Greenworks’ full selection of electric pressure washers to find the right fit for your home.
What PSI is Best for Pressure Washing Your House?
A pressure washer with 1,300 to 2,000 PSI is generally considered safe for most exterior surfaces. This PSI range works well for a variety of siding types, including vinyl, aluminum, and painted wood, without risking damage to your home.
Flexibility:
You can bump up to 2,000 to 3,000 PSI for tougher cleaning jobs, like removing oil stains from driveways or cleaning brick. But always start with a lower pressure and test in an inconspicuous area first.
Prevent Damage:
Use wider spray nozzles (25- or 40-degree tips) and maintain 6–12 inches of distance from the surface to prevent etching or splintering.
Consider GPM (Gallons Per Minute):
While PSI measures pressure, GPM measures water flow. Residential washers typically range from 1.0 to 4.0 GPM. Higher GPM provides faster and more efficient cleaning.
How to Pressure Wash Your House in 8 Steps
Follow these step-by-step instructions for a thorough and damage-free clean:
- Prepare Your Area: Remove furniture, trim plants, and cover outlets.
- Use the Right Equipment: Choose a washer with the right PSI (1,300–2,400 PSI) and a 25- to 40-degree spray tip.
- Pre-Soak Surfaces: Spray a detergent solution from top to bottom.
- Adjust Spray Angle: Use a 25–40-degree angle to clean without damaging.
- Work in Sections: Clean in manageable areas, rinsing each before moving on.
- Test First: Try a small, hidden spot to ensure the pressure is appropriate.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Use clean water to remove detergent and debris.
- Dry and Spot Clean: Allow time for drying, then inspect and touch up as needed.
Commonly Asked Question: What’s the ideal nozzle angle to use when pressure washing a house?
Answer: For most house pressure washing tasks, a 25-degree nozzle is a good starting point. This angle provides an effective balance of cleaning power and gentleness, making it suitable for most surfaces (including siding, driveways, and walkways). A 40-degree nozzle can be used for more delicate areas or when you need a wider spray pattern.
Want to learn more? Watch this YouTube video from woodworker Jon Peters on How to Assemble & Use Greenworks 2300 psi Pressure Washer.
How to Pressure Wash a House Safely
Don’t risk it! Pressure washing can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Here are some key safety tips:
- Wear goggles, gloves, and hearing protection.
- Never spray directly at electrical outlets, wiring, or power lines.
- Keep the nozzle at least 10 feet away from power lines.
- Avoid spraying directly at windows or fragile trim.
- Use a cleaning solution designed for pressure washers to loosen dirt before rinsing.
- Always engage the safety latch when not actively spraying.
For more tips, check out The Dos and Don’ts of Pressure Washing by “America’s Handyman” Bob Vila.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Giving your home a good pressure wash does more than just make it look nice! It boosts curb appeal, helps maintain your property’s value, and can even prevent long-term damage. Plus, it clears away allergens and grime—all in a way that’s both eco-friendly and budget-friendly. It's a simple way to keep your home looking its best and feeling fresh!
Related Articles:
Greenworks Pressure Washers – Best in Class
10 Pressure Washer Uses at Home
Written by The Green Team, a creative arm within Greenworks Tools.
Our team of writers, designers and content creators bring a breadth of experience and a touch of fun to all things tools. With an assist from the Greenworks product teams and technology experts, we’re here to provide helpful and engaging content to make your yard (and life!) beautiful.
