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Whether you’re a homeowner testing your DIY chops, a knowledge-hungry reader, or one of the handymen at Mr. Handyman, one thing should always be top of mind when it comes to pressure washing siding is safety.
Pressure washing may look easy... just point and spray, right? Not quite. While it’s an excellent way to remove dirt, mold, algae, and years of built-up grime, the power behind that spray brings some serious recoil. That can cause damage to your siding, injury to yourself, or harm to others nearby. And if you're not careful, it can even backfire and cause water intrusion.
In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Handyman, we want to highlight some pressure washing safety precautions that everyone ought to know. If the damage is done and you need siding repair, then call or message Mr. Handyman to leave the work to a trained and uniformed professional.
Let’s start with the basics. Pressure washers are no joke. Depending on the model, they can blast water at pressures anywhere from 1,500 to 4,000 PSI (pounds per square inch). That’s strong enough to strip paint and cut through grime - but also to lacerate skin, shatter windows, and damage siding if not used properly.
Before you start pressure washing siding you should understand what material (vinyl, wood, brick, etc.) you’re working with and respect the power behind the machine.
It might be hot outside, but pressure washing isn’t a job for flip-flops and tank tops. Your clothing is your first line of defense against the intense pressure of the water. Remember to wear:
If you’re a team member of Mr. Handyman, these aren’t just tips; they’re standard operating procedures. Safety isn’t optional at Mr. Handyman.
Not all siding materials can take the same pressure. For example, Vinyl siding can typically handle moderate pressure but may warp under extreme heat or high PSI. Wood is even more delicate. Fiber cement siding is tougher but still requires a controlled spray angle and distance.
Never assume one-size-fits-all when it comes to pressure washing. Understanding what your siding is made of will help you choose the right nozzle, PSI, and cleaning solution.
This one’s an obvi but a biggie - especially if you're a homeowner who’s not used to working with both water and power tools. Before starting the job, you must cover or avoid outdoor outlets and light fixtures. Never aim the washer near power lines or wiring running along the siding.
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. At Mr. Handyman, we’re licensed and insured. This means we’re prepared for worst-case scenarios even if we plan to avoid them entirely.
Nozzle matters. A narrow nozzle delivers a more powerful stream and should be used with care. For siding, you'll mostly play with a 25- to 40-degree nozzle, but always test a small area first. Start with lower pressure and increase only as needed. Too much pressure can:
Proper angle matters too. Always spray at a downward angle, never upward.
Pressure washing is loud, messy, and potentially dangerous if someone walks into the spray path. Keep children and pets indoors or well away from the work area, and remind any helpers of the power of the pressure washer.
Pressure washing the siding might seem simple, but the power of the pressure water can turn things upside down. If you are looking at siding damage, then keep calm and call Mr. Handyman for quick and affordable siding repair. Our team is on standby to take your call or message today.
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