Should I Pressure Wash my House Before Painting?

Last Diwali my brother insisted on painting the walls of his room himself. He had seen me painting our living room a few months back so he knew I could help him. As a basic rule, I asked him to pressure wash before painting. I told him that through pressure washing he can clean grime and transform the home with a fresh coat of paint. I also told him to be very careful while pressure washing the walls.

I highlighted the pros and cons of pressure washing, to my brother, and helped him understand how to pressure wash house before painting.

Pros of Pressure Washing and Painting

• Pressure washing creates a clean, textured surface for superior paint adhesion, ensuring a longer-lasting, more vibrant finish.

• A good wash removes mould and mildew spores, making your home not only aesthetically pleasing but also healthier.

• Pressure washing can unveil intricate brickwork, charming wood grains, and other forgotten features, adding a touch of character to your refreshed exterior.

Cons of Pressure Washing and Painting

• If wielded with too much gusto, the pressure washer can damage delicate surfaces like siding, especially older materials like wood or vinyl. 

• If your budget is tight, consider hand-washing or hiring a professional cleaning service for high-pressure situations.

• Consider eco-friendly alternatives like manual cleaning or low-pressure washing techniques when possible.

So, ultimately I would say that the decision of pressure washing before painting exterior house depends on your specific situation. If your house is heavily caked in dirt, grime, or peeling paint, pressure washing is a smart investment for a successful paint job. However, for lightly soiled surfaces or older, delicate materials, other cleaning methods might be more suitable. Weigh the pros and cons, assess your budget and house condition, and choose the approach that best suits your needs.

Pressure washing is a type of cleaning technique that uses a high-pressure stream of water to remove dirt, mud, dust, mold, and other physical impurities from surfaces. It is commonly used to clean outdoor surfaces such as driveways, patios, decks, and siding. But to clean the exterior walls, pressure washing can also be done. Our painter suggested we go for pressure washing, but I had doubts about it. I hence asked my colleagues- "Should I pressure wash my house before painting?" and most of them suggested I go for it. Let me share some of the advantages of pressure washing.

Advantages of pressure washing house walls are-

• Pressure washing can help remove dirt, grime, and other debris from the surface of your house. This can help create a better surface for painting and ensure an even finish. 

• It can also help remove mold and mildew from the siding and other surfaces. This can help prevent the growth of future mold and mildew and prevent the paint from chipping or peeling in the future. 

• This process helps to remove any loose paint from the surface of your house. This will ensure that the new paint adheres properly and does not chip or peel over time. 

• Pressure washing can also help remove any loose caulk, which can help create a better seal between the siding and windows and prevent moisture from getting into your home. 

• It also increases the value of your home by making it look cleaner and more presentable. In conclusion, pressure washing your house before painting can be a great way to help ensure that your paint job looks great and lasts for years to come. 

I got my answer to

"Should I pressure wash my house before painting?" clearly. I hope you, too, have understood why it is suggested.