Pressure Washing Your Home? Avoid These 5 Costly Mistakes

Pressure washing your home can be a great way to boost curb appeal, remove grime, and prep surfaces for painting. However, if done incorrectly, it can lead to expensive damage—both to your property and even to yourself.

Before you fire up that pressure washer, make sure you avoid these common homeowner mistakes:

1. Using Too Much Pressure

It’s tempting to crank the PSI up to "maximum power," but high pressure can destroy siding, wood, and even brick mortar.

Vinyl siding can crack or loosen.
Wood decks can splinter or develop gouges.
Old brick or stone can lose mortar, leading to structural issues.

Solution: Use the right nozzle (typically a 25-40° tip) and keep pressure below 1,500 PSI for most home surfaces.

2. Ignoring Electrical Hazards

Water + electricity = danger. Pressure washing near outdoor outlets, light fixtures, or electrical panels can lead to shocks or short circuits.

Solution:

Turn off power to outdoor outlets/lights before washing.
Avoid spraying directly at electrical components.
Use a GFCI outlet for your pressure washer.

3. Washing Upward (Instead of Downward)

Spraying upward forces water behind siding, under shingles, or into window seals, leading to moisture damage, mold, and rot.

Solution: Always spray top-down at a slight angle to let water run off naturally.

4. Skipping Safety Gear

A pressure washer can cut skin or cause serious injuries if mishandled. Many homeowners underestimate the risks.

Wear:

Closed-toe shoes
Safety goggles
Gloves
Long pants (to protect from debris kickback)

5. Using the Wrong Cleaning Solutions

Bleach or harsh chemicals can:

Kill plants & grass
Damage paint & sealants
Harm pets & wildlife

Solution: Use eco-friendly detergents designed for pressure washers, and rinse thoroughly.

Final Tip: Know When to Call a Pro

If your home has old, delicate surfaces or stubborn stains, hiring a professional might save you from costly repairs.

Have you ever pressure-washed your home? What lessons did you learn? Share your stories in the comments!

Want more home maintenance tips? Subscribe for weekly DIY guides! 🚀