How to Pressure Wash Your House

Pressure washing your house involves selecting the right pressure setting, applying detergent from bottom to top, then rinsing from top to bottom while maintaining consistent distance and overlap patterns.

1. Set Up Safe and Secure. Remove outdoor furniture, cover plants and electrical outlets with plastic sheeting, and close all windows and doors. Connect your pressure washer to a water source and fill the detergent tank if your unit has one. Test the pressure washer on an inconspicuous area to ensure the pressure setting won't damage your siding.
2. Pick Your Weapon Wisely. Use a 25-degree or 40-degree nozzle for most siding materials. Start with lower pressure (1,200-1,500 PSI) for vinyl or wood siding, and up to 2,500 PSI for brick or concrete. Never use a 0-degree nozzle on siding as it can cause permanent damage. Keep the nozzle at least 12 inches from the surface.
3. Soak It In Systematically. Start at the bottom of one section and work upward in overlapping horizontal strokes. This prevents streaking and ensures even coverage. Let the detergent sit for 5-10 minutes but don't allow it to dry completely. Work in manageable sections of about 10 feet wide to maintain control over the cleaning process.
4. Blast Away Top to Bottom. Switch to clean water and start rinsing from the highest point, working downward in overlapping strokes. Maintain consistent distance and movement speed to avoid streaks or missed spots. Pay special attention to corners, trim, and areas where dirt typically accumulates like window sills and door frames.
5. Polish the Final Details. Use a gutter cleaning attachment or angled nozzle to clean out gutters while you have the pressure washer set up. Rinse any remaining soap residue from windows and trim. Walk around the house to check for missed areas or stubborn stains that may need a second pass with detergent.