Pressure Washing near you

Pressure washing relies on the force of the water to lift dirt. It suits hard, durable surfaces such as concrete and pavers, with the pressure and nozzle matched to the material. Soft washing uses low pressure, closer to a garden hose, with a cleaning solution that loosens algae, mildew and grime so they can be rinsed off without blasting the surface.

Soft washing is the safer choice for siding, painted surfaces, stucco and weathered wood, but it depends on chemistry, so ask which product will be used, how nearby plants will be protected and how the rinse water will be managed. Either way, a good operator tests an inconspicuous spot first and adjusts before going further.

Moss and algae on a roof are a job for a roof cleaning company using low-pressure methods suited to the roofing, or for a roofer if shingles are damaged. It's work at height, not something to take on yourself.

Catch basins and storm drains carry water toward local creeks, rivers and lakes, which is why municipal sewer bylaws limit what can go into them. Toronto's Sewers By-law is a clear example: the City says nothing but rain and melted snow may flow into an outdoor catch basin, and that wastewater from outdoor washing must not reach one, because soaps, cleaning products and the contaminants washed off a surface break the storm sewer limits. It adds that power washing with water alone still dislodges or dissolves contaminants.

The City suggests letting wash water evaporate, redirecting it away from catch basins or containing it, disposing of it in an indoor drain or hauling it away, and sweeping driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them. Rules differ elsewhere, so check with your municipality, and ask the contractor how runoff will be handled, which detergents they use and how lawns, gardens and nearby water will be protected.

Pressure washing old paint strips loose flakes and sends chips and contaminated water across the yard. Health Canada says a home built before 1960 probably contains lead-based paint, and one built between 1960 and 1990 may have it on the exterior. It notes that even small amounts of lead dust are dangerous to infants and children, and suggests testing by sending paint chips to a lab or hiring a contractor with the proper x-ray equipment.

On an older house, fence or porch with peeling paint, have the paint tested before any washing or prep work. If lead is present, the job calls for a contractor who contains and collects the debris, and pressure washing is usually the wrong tool; as Health Canada advises, keep children and pregnant women away from the work area.

Cleaning opens up the surface, which makes it the right moment to protect it, but only once it's completely dry. Wood and concrete hold water after washing, and sealer or stain applied too soon can peel, turn cloudy or trap moisture. Follow the product's directions on drying time, temperature and rain.