Avoid These 7 Common Pressure Washing Mistakes (And Protect Your Property)

Pressure washing is one of the fastest ways to refresh the look of your home, business, or commercial property — but when done incorrectly, it can also lead to costly damage.

From etched concrete to water in your walls, many of the most common mistakes happen when people underestimate the power of a pressure washer or use the wrong technique for the job.

Whether you’re a homeowner trying DIY for the first time or a property manager overseeing exterior maintenance in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, or nearby, here are 7 pressure washing mistakes to avoid for professional, damage-free results.

1️⃣ Using the Wrong Pressure or Tip

One of the most common errors is blasting surfaces with too much pressure or using the wrong nozzle tip.

• A 0° nozzle can carve grooves into wood, siding, and even concrete.

• Excessive PSI can strip paint, damage vinyl siding, or break window seals.

• Using too low of a setting may just push dirt around without cleaning effectively.

👉 Pro Tip: Use a fan tip (15°–40°) for general cleaning, and adjust PSI based on the surface. When in doubt, start lower and increase gradually.

2️⃣ Holding the Wand Too Close

It’s tempting to get right up close to “blast” away grime — but this often leads to etching, streaks, or gouges. Concrete can scar, wood fibers can fray, and delicate surfaces can crack.

👉 Pro Tip: Maintain a consistent distance of 12–18 inches from the surface, and use smooth, overlapping passes instead of focusing too long on one spot.

3️⃣ Spraying Water Under Siding or Into Openings

Directing high-pressure water upward or into gaps (like window frames, vents, or under siding) can force water into your walls, causing hidden moisture damage, mold growth, or electrical issues.

👉 Pro Tip: Always spray downward or at a shallow angle. Use lower pressure around doors, windows, and siding seams. For delicate areas, soft washing is usually safer.

4️⃣ Not Pre-Treating Stains and Buildup

Many DIYers skip the pre-treatment step, relying on pressure alone to clean everything. This leads to uneven results and extra time wasted.

👉 Pro Tip: Apply eco-friendly detergents or degreasers to break down dirt, grease, algae, or mold before pressure washing. Let it dwell for a few minutes — this allows lower pressure settings to work more effectively and evenly.

5️⃣ Cleaning in the Wrong Weather Conditions

Trying to clean windows or siding on a hot sunny day can cause water and detergents to dry too fast, leaving streaks, residue, or spots.

Rainy or freezing weather, on the other hand, makes cleaning inefficient and can cause unsafe working conditions.

👉 Pro Tip: For best results, pressure wash on a mild, overcast day, ideally in the morning or late afternoon when the surfaces are cool.

6️⃣ Forgetting Safety Gear and Precautions

Pressure washers are powerful tools — even low settings can cut skin or cause injury. Flying debris, chemical backsplash, or ladder accidents are real risks.

👉 Pro Tip:

• Wear safety goggles, gloves, and non-slip boots.

• Be cautious on ladders; use extension wands where possible.

• Never point the wand at yourself, others, or pets.

7️⃣ Using the Same Method for Every Surface

Not all surfaces are created equal. The technique for cleaning concrete is very different from stucco, wood decking, or commercial building facades.

👉 Pro Tip:

• Use soft washing for delicate surfaces like siding, roofs, and awnings.

• Use hot water pressure washing with degreasers for commercial concrete (e.g., restaurants and plazas).

• Adjust technique and equipment based on the surface type.

🧼 The Smart Alternative: Professional Pressure Washing

Avoiding these mistakes requires experience, specialized equipment, and proper technique. That’s why many homeowners and businesses in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, and surrounding areas rely on professional exterior cleaning services.

At Pressure Wash Brigade, our trained team uses soft washing, hot water pressure systems, and commercial-grade detergents to clean efficiently — without damage. Whether it’s a driveway, restaurant pad, retail plaza, or house exterior, we tailor our approach for safe, spotless results.

✨ Final Thoughts

Pressure washing can transform your property in just a few hours, but only if it’s done right. Avoid these 7 common mistakes, and you’ll prevent damage, save time, and keep your surfaces looking their best.

👉 Request a Free Quote today for professional pressure washing services across Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, and the surrounding areas.