The downsides of DIY pressure washing
by Alfredo Mendoza, onGraffiti RemovalPressure Washing , March 23, 2021
by Alfredo Mendoza, onGraffiti RemovalPressure Washing , March 23, 2021
If graffiti taggers have targeted your property, you might be asking should I wash it myself? Previously on this blog, we have discussed the importance of taking immediate action against vandalism in your household or business. With pressure washing, you can effectively clean stubborn messes of any surface, tho it should be something from time to time. Some homeowners hire qualified technicians for this, while others choose the do it yourself route. What would be the best option for you? Here we discuss some of the downsides of DIY pressure washing.
When deciding to DIY, a lot of questions may surge:
Pressure washing yourself can save you labour costs that professionals would charge. Renting a pressure washer is cheaper than buying a unit. Some companies in Melbourne would rent the equipment from $75 to $160 per day, depending on the machine’s features. Nevertheless, there are hidden costs that can’t be overlooked.
Some additional expenses of renting a unit would be the water usage, washer soap or cleaner, which price varies depending on the materials used on the graffiti, fuel or electricity required for the machine, and the risk of damaging the surface. Additionally, pressure washing is time-consuming –depending on the graffiti paint, the surface material and the quality of the chemicals used to remove the paint. You may face challenges and end up extending the rental time of the pressure washer.
Pressure washing techniques may vary from one surface to another. For example, concrete and wood require different PSI –where 3000 PSI would good for concrete; it is powerful enough to punch holes into a wooden deck, vinyl sidings and windows. It may also erode the cement in your driveway with the wrong technique application.
Also, when mishandled, DIY pressure washing can cause serious injuries. Safe Work Australia has established a process to manage and control pressure washing risks and hazards. The savings of DIY by renting a pressure washer would not cover the thousands of dollars you may spend on repairs and potential hospital bills. Hiring a qualified technician would save you time, and most importantly, the hassle. Just make sure the company or tradesperson you hire is fully insured in case of damages to your property.
A qualified technician would follow an exhaustive analysis of the surface and surrounding area before getting the job done. Part of the initial assessment would include:
The technician follows safety precautions Australian Government, Clean Using Pressure Washing Training. Such guidelines may include using adequate protective gear, identifying electrical hazards, and establish a safe work perimeter.
Clearing the area is essential, as the technician requires more space to pressure wash the exteriors avoiding risks. Since the pressure washer has a lot of force, personal belongings and soft elements shouldn’t be exposed while pressure washing.
Sticks, stones, and other contaminants can become airborne due to the pressure of the washer. These items can damage your property if not secured. In some cases, covering doors and windows with plastic sheets may be required.
A qualified technician would know how to attach the spray wand, the appropriate angle for pressure washing, where to put the hose, and other vital details. Also, the PSI settings should be configured according to the initial assessment of the surface,
After the initial assessment, the specialist will apply the correct chemicals and cleaners to dislodge built-up dirt and the graffiti paint on the surfaces.
Once the chemicals have reacted, the right angle of the gun and pressure will end the job. All traces of graffiti will be removed with no damage to the surface. The application of an anti-graffiti coating is a wise preventive solution for further vandalism attacks.
The main issue that homeowners have with professional pressure washing is the cost. However, consider the quality of service you are getting in return.
A professional pressure washing service will be able to remove graffiti with no damage efficiently. A specialist has the experience and expertise to handle any surface and equipment. While even professionals can make mistakes, a good company will be insured and compensate you for the damage. Furthermore, you wouldn’t put yourself, your family, or your property at risk.
When choosing what direction to take, you should always consider the pros and cons of DIY pressure washing and professional pressure washing. DIY pressure washing saves you a lot of money, but it will demand a lot of time. It also opens you up to a lot of risks. Hiring a professional pressure washing service will cost more money, but they have the experience and expertise to get the job done quickly. Ultimately, you need to think about your budget and needs when making this decision. If you need help, don’t hesitate to give us a call.