Summer in Franklin, TN, is prime time for sprucing up your home’s exterior with a good pressure wash. But before you fire up that machine, take a minute to learn the most common summer pressure washing mistakes. Trust us — avoiding these can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches!
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Common Summer Pressure Washing Mistakes
Here’s what homeowners most often get wrong when tackling summer cleaning:
Overusing Pressure
- Cranking up the pressure seems like it’ll blast off dirt faster — but it can gouge wood, crack siding, or peel paint.
- Tip: Start with a low setting and test on a small spot first.
Ignoring Surface Needs
- Not all surfaces are the same! Wood, concrete, brick, and vinyl each need different nozzles and pressure levels.
- Tip: Use wide nozzles for delicate surfaces and narrow tips only on tough materials.
Underestimating the Heat
- Summer heat can dry cleaning solutions too quickly, leaving streaks or residue.
- Tip: Wash early in the morning or later in the evening when temps are cooler.
Skipping Safety Gear
- High-pressure water can slice skin, and hot sun increases the risk of dehydration or heatstroke.
- Tip: Wear goggles, closed-toe shoes, and drink plenty of water while working.
Wasting Water During Drought
- Many places impose water restrictions during dry spells — ignoring them can bring fines or waste precious resources.
- Tip: Check local water regulations before starting, or hire pros like Wildcat Cleaning Pressure Washing who use water-efficient techniques.
Can High Temperatures Affect Cleaning Solutions?
Yes!
Hot summer sun can make cleaning solutions:
– Dry too quickly, reducing effectiveness.
– Leave streaks or soap scum on windows and siding.
– Evaporate before fully rinsing, wasting product.
Pro Tip:
- Work in shaded areas or choose cooler times of day.
- Keep surfaces wet before applying cleaner to prevent fast drying.
- Rinse small sections immediately after scrubbing.
Is DIY Pressure Washing Dangerous in Summer Heat?
Absolutely! Here’s why:
- High temps + heavy equipment = faster dehydration.
- Sun glare can reduce visibility, increasing mistakes.
- Heat fatigue makes it easier to slip, trip, or mishandle the pressure washer.
Pro Tips to Stay Safe:
– Take breaks every 20–30 minutes.
– Wear lightweight, long-sleeve clothing to protect skin.
– Keep a shaded rest area nearby.
– If unsure, call the pros at 615-336-7122 — Wildcat Cleaning Pressure Washing has trained crews to handle summer jobs safely.
Should I Avoid Pressure Washing During a Drought or Water Restrictions?
Yes — or at least be mindful!
Many areas, including parts of Tennessee, impose seasonal water use restrictions. Pressure washers can use 2–5 gallons per minute, so you could burn through 120+ gallons in just half an hour.
Pro Tips:
- Check local rules before starting any large wash project.
- Use a commercial service like Wildcat — they often use water-saving techniques.
- Focus on priority areas (like the front façade) instead of full-house cleaning if water is limited.
Pro Tips to Avoid Wasting Time, Water, or Money
- Plan ahead: Check weather, water rules, and surface needs.
- Use the right tools: Proper nozzles, soaps, and pressures save time and prevent damage.
- Test first: Always test a small patch before committing to a big area.
- Know when to call the pros: Professionals like Wildcat Cleaning Pressure Washing get the job done faster, safer, and often more affordably than DIY.
Ready for a Perfect Summer Clean?
Skip the stress and let the experts handle it! Wildcat Cleaning Pressure Washing offers:
– House washing
– Roof and gutter cleaning
– Deck and driveway cleaning
– Window washing
Call 615-336-7122, visit wildcatcleaningpressurewashing.com, or check them out on Google Maps to schedule your summer cleaning today. Stay cool and let Wildcat handle the heat!