The Benefits of Power Washing Old Paint
Professional power washing machines work similarly to pressure washers, except they usually use heated water.
Besides improving the beauty of a property, clean exterior walls help to preserve the underlying structure. Surfaces collect dirt and grime over time, and paint fades. In more extreme scenarios, intruders might paint graffiti on a building’s exterior, diminishing the property’s aesthetics. Property owners have two choices to keep properties looking fresh: power wash or paint the walls.
Keep reading to determine what course is best for the difference between power washing and painting:
Benefits of power washing
Manual cleaning of dirt, grime, stains, and droppings on large exterior walls is time- and labor-consuming. However, professional power-washing companies can expedite the process.
Professional power washing machines work similarly to pressure washers, except they usually use heated water. The hot water loosens tough stains, destroys moss, mildew, and mold, and prevents regrowth.
Thorough cleaning typically calls for a cleaning agent with hot water, but the solution is particular to a specific surface. While the pressure in the power washer effectively cleans, it can also destroy some building materials. It’s vital to use pressure that the wall material can handle, which is something a professional cleaning company will assess.
A pressure of 2,000 to 3,000 pounds per square inch (PSI) works well for stones, concrete, and brick walls. Hardwoods like oak can withstand up to 1,500 PSI, while softwoods like pine or cedar require 500 PSI of pressure.
When to power wash
For many property owners, deciding whether to power wash or paint boils down to budget. However, some situations necessitate one solution over another, and understanding when each method is appropriate can help owners make a final choice.
Property owners might decide to repaint the wall when the surface has cracks or the paint color has faded. Power washing beforehand will be appropriate in this case because the process helps remove the old paint and any stain. Painting on a clean surface ensures the paint sticks well for a smooth finish.
When to paint
Painting is the best option when the wall surface or material is too weak to withstand the pressure of power washing. It provides a gentler alternative that will offer a protective layer without causing damage. Also, if the wall has permanent stains after power washing, painting would be the best option to conceal the stains.
Revamp the exterior look of a property
In many cases, power washing provides the best alternative to painting a building’s exterior. Property owners should consult professionals to learn more about their options and ensure their choice matches their expectations.
Super Soft Wash is a leading exterior cleaning company in Central Florida, providing residents with soft washing, pressure washing, patio cleaning, brick cleaning, pool deck painting, concrete staining, and siding cleaning solutions. We use eco-friendly cleaning solutions and believe in creating a lasting relationship with clients. Call us to learn more about our services.
