Powerwashing FAQs
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What is Powerwashing?
Powerwashing is the application of high pressure water spray to a surface. The spray, generated by portable pumps and mixed with a special combination of water and washing detergents, can be as powerful as 4 to 6 GPM (gallons per minute flow rate), 1,500 to 3,500 PSI (pounds per sq inch pressure) and up to 200º F.   By comparison, an average powerwasher can produce a spray that is over one hundred times more powerful than your typical garden hose.
What's the difference between powerwashing, pressure washing, and high-power pressure cleaning? 
Nothing. These are all terms used to describe the same process of cleaning surfaces with high- pressure water spray.
Can I purchase or use my own powerwasher and do just as good a job as you can? 
Most powerwashers that are purchased from home improvement stores such as Menard’s and Home Depot cost anywhere between $100 and $1000.  These machines are called hobby powerwashers because they do not have adequate pressure or water flow to effectively clean most surfaces, nor do they produce hot water, which is a key factor in effectively cleaning most surfaces.  Many homeowners that use these hobby powerwashers actually damage the surface cleaned because they must get very close to the surface to get cleaning results.  Our powerwasher produces very high volumes of water flow with hot water if desired and allows us to operate at lower pressures to get great cleaning results without damaging the surface cleaned.
What can be pressure cleaned?
Generally, almost anything can be powerwashed.  Typical residential jobs include cleaning house exteriors (siding and brick face), decks, patios, awnings, walkways and fences.
Is powerwashing safe for painted surfaces?
Yes. The basic concept of high pressure washing with detergent on painted surfaces has been tested and proven. With the correct combination of pressure, flow, chemicals and temperature a wide variety of jobs can be accomplished without scrubbing or brushing. Experts agree that powerwashing is safer than steam cleaning and sandblasting.  If paint is peeling from the surface to be powerwashed, we advise not powerwashing those areas because the process will remove any loose paint.
How often should I get my deck powerwashed and sealed?
Under normal  conditions, you should pressure-clean and seal your wood deck once every three years. However, it can be powerwashed sooner if mold and mildew are a persistent problem, and you want to avoid premature wood rot and decay.  
Why is my deck turning a grayish color?

Deck discoloration can usually be traced back to its exposure to the sun. The sun naturally gives off ultraviolet rays that can be quite harmful to the cellular composition of a wood deck.  Using a good wood sealant, one with a high solids concentration, can protect your deck and help maintain the wood in its original state. That includes protecting it from turning that unattractive gray color.