Many homeowners today will buy a pressure washer and use it for cleaning the exterior of their home, and this can be a good thing for removing some surface dirt and dust. However, it's often good to have a professional pressure cleaning company come to your home for you when it needs a thorough cleaning, rather than assuming you can always do this job on your own. Note why this is, and why you may want to rethink the idea of getting your own pressure washer just for the exterior of your home.

1. Adding detergents

Many homes need a good detergent added to the water in order to get truly clean; even with the higher pressure, a water spray is not usually enough to get out years of dirt and especially when it's caught in the mortar of bricks and other crevices. However, using the wrong detergent can mean leaving dirty streaks on your home and even damaging your pressure washer. You may also need a different detergent for windows versus siding, and yet another detergent for bricks and concrete walkways. A professional can ensure they use the right detergent, in the right amount, for a safe and effective cleaning.

2. Amount of pressure

Too much pressure can chip or crack brick, stucco, concrete, wood decks, stone, and even aluminium siding. You can even shatter a window with a pressure washer if you don't use it properly. If you aim the pressure washer a particular way, you could even loosen roofing tiles and shingles.

However, not enough pressure will mean a lacklustre clean and even a poor rinse job. If you've never handled a pressure washer before, it's good to have a professional manage this cleaning so you don't damage your home or any of its accessories while still getting everything clean.

3. Stains

Stains on your home or its roof can be from any number of sources; these can be grease or paint from other renovation projects, or mould or mildew growth or even algae. Trying to just wash these away with the pressure of a washer can be pointless, as these stains may need a good scrubbing; oil and grease may also need hot water to dissolve them, or they will simply smear and get worse. Trying to wash away paint can also mean spreading it around and causing even more stains. To ensure stains are addressed properly, have a professional examine them and then wash your home for you.