What to know about pressure washing your home
There was a time when white on white decor was all the rage. But it was mostly for social areas such as living and sitting rooms that were not meant to be touched, just merely admired and used as a gathering space for the occasional guest who popped in for afternoon coffee or tea.
Fast forward to today, when neutral decor and white on white is more popular than ever and an integral part of how those looking for a modern,
Pressure washing offers a quick way to blast dirt and grime from exterior surfaces, such as your house, driveways and decks. This process can efficiently freshen up a surface.
Pressure washing basically uses a water pump and electric or gasoline motor to power a highpressure hose and sprayer to generate an extremely powerful spray. In some cases, detergents or other chemicals are used to enhance the effect.
Sometimes the term is used interchangeably with “power washing,” but they’re not quite the same thing. They use very similar equipment, but tools clean look wish to have their space feel and still be functional. Love the look of neutrals and white on white décor? Here are some tips on how to integrate this timeless color palette into your home decor.
DO
1. Do use art as a way to springboard a white on white color palette into your space.
2. Do use white and neutral colored pieces for main upholstery such as sofas and chairs. that power wash a home heat the water to loosen up dirt or grease.
However, you should take great care with both. Pressure washing and power washing are potent tools that are best used by professionals.
Here are some things to know:
Pressure washing costs: The cost to pressure wash or power wash a home varies based on size. For a smaller home, you’ll pay around $100 for this job. Larger homes could go as high as $380.
You can use pressure washing on other exterior surfaces such as decks or driveways. You’ll pay between $80 and $200 to pressure wash a driveway. Pressure washing a deck or patio will cost between $250 and $500. Professionals report that you’ll pay about $2 per square foot on a deck.
Hiring a power washing service: When you hire for this work, make sure they’re up to date on EPA regulations regarding runoff water and envi
3. Do blend different shades of white and cream in the same space as long as they are the same temperature, such as cool white with other cool tones and warm shades with other warm tones.
4. Do pair metals such as brass with white on white décor.
5. Do add mirrors in spaces that are white on white. Keep in mind, white surfaces help to bounce light and further reflect.
DON’T
1. Don’t be afraid to purchase white ronmentally safe chemicals. The EPA can hold a property owner responsible if cleaning chemicals are allowed to discharge into the drainage system.
Ask if they have experience with your type of house. Some power washleather furniture. Nervous? Consider alternatives such as Naugahyde.
2. Don’t ignore the opportunity to bring in a sense of contrast using elements such as black, chocolate brown and charcoal gray.
3. Don’t use shades of white that are overly yellow or gray as they can appear dirty or stained.
4. Don’t just use white on white in social areas; consider them for rooms in which you desire a soothing, calm color palette such as bedrooms.
5. Don’t forget the opportunity for portable design elements in white, such as pillows, throws and ceramics. ers add chemicals to the spray to clean more effectively. You want to be sure they know which chemicals to use and in what quantity for your specific job. Some companies use biodegradable solutions that won’t damage plants or soil and don’t leave behind a residue. The specialized chemical knowledge is one big reason it’s wise to hire a pro rather than do it yourself.
Verify that they carry their own insurance to cover any damage to your home that may occur.
Most professionals suggest you avoid power washing siding. Siding is particularly vulnerable to damage, and the vents in most siding can allow water to get caught between the siding and the home, causing wood rot.
This is a case where it’s best to rely on a professional who has the expertise to use the right pressure settings and can identify if your siding is easily damaged.
Ask for an itemized bill: This should include the costs of materials, soap, equipment and a breakdown of labor based on time to complete the job and size of the area cleaned. If the company will use water from your home rather than bring their own, make sure you’re not being charged for it.
If your house’s exterior contains lead paint, the work needs to be done by an EPA-certified specialist who can safely wash the exterior without contaminating the nearby area.