What
is Powerwashing?
Powerwashing is the
application of high pressure water spray to a surface.
The spray, generated by portable pumps and mixed with
a special combination of water and washing detergents,
can be as powerful as 4 to 6 GPM (gallons per minute
flow rate), 1,500 to 3,500 PSI (pounds per sq inch
pressure) and up to 200º F. By comparison, an average
powerwasher can produce a spray that is over one
hundred times more powerful than your typical garden
hose.
Is
there a difference between powerwashing, pressure
washing, and high-power pressure cleaning?
No.
These are all terms used to describe the same process
of cleaning dry surfaces with high pressure water spray.
What
can be pressure cleaned?
Generally, almost
anything can be powerwashed. However, practically
speaking, most pressure cleaning applications involve
immovable items that must be cleaned at their
locations. Typical residential jobs include cleaning
house exteriors (siding and brick face), decks, patios,
awnings, walkways and fences.
Is
powerwashing safe for painted surfaces?
Yes. The basic
concept of high pressure washing with detergent on
painted surfaces has been tested and proven. With the
correct combination of pressure, flow, chemicals and
temperature a wide variety of jobs can be accomplished
without scrubbing or brushing. Experts agree that
powerwashing is safer than steam cleaning and
sandblasting.
How
often should I get my deck powerwashed and sealed?
Under
normal foliage and weather conditions, you should
pressure-clean and seal your wood deck once every two
years.
