Innovative Pressure Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We may answer some of your questions regarding your service below with our FAQs answered:
What is power washing?
One FAQ we get is what is power washing? Power washing, or pressure washing, is the application of a high pressure water spray to surfaces that need cleaned.
Is there a difference between power washing and pressure washing?
The terms “power wash” and “pressure wash” are completely synonymous. The fact is these terms are used interchangeably to describe the process of using high pressure water to clean surfaces. We use 3,000 PSI pressure washing machines, both hot and cold water units.
What is Soft Washing?
Soft Washing is the combination of the use of correct detergents, dwell times, and lower pressure rinsing systems. The detergents we utilize are effective at killing molds, mildews, and algae, allowing us to safely remove the “grime” from any surface.
How often do most surface need power washed?
For the majority of surfaces, an annual power washing should suffice. It does depend on the materials used to create/build the surface as well as the current condition of the surface, so you may need to increase the frequency of power washings.
What are PSI and GPM?
Another FAQ is what is PSI and GPM? PSI is the pounds per square inch. This is what delivers the punch during a power wash, forcing contaminants off the surface.
GPM is the gallons per minute. This flushes the contaminants pushed off by the PSI.
Both are very important. Some people do, however, prefer more PSI or more GPM depending on their needs. A farmer may want more GPM to flush contaminants away from the fresh soil; a business owner may want more PSI to get the grime off the exterior surface of his or her storefront.
Can I do the power washing on my own?
While power washing can be viewed as a do-it-yourself project, there is a clear distinction between a DIY crew and professional services. This means you get greater capability of equipment and greater expertise by having trained power washing technicians do it for you.
A do-it-yourself washer may set the pressure too high for the surface or hold the nozzle too close to it. This can result in chipped painting, damaged screens, and ruined siding. And though most power washing equipment you can rent has the same PSI as commercial-grade tools, it holds a minimal amount of water—making this project take days, not hours.
Will a high pressure wash damage my home?
Yes, typical high pressure washing can damage your home. That’s why here at IPC, we use the correct detergents and proper pressure to ensure a safe and effective cleaning of your home.
Is there a difference between cold water and hot water pressure washing?
We get this question all the time. Yes. There are several advantages to offering hot water pressure washing capabilities, which we do.
Hot water is a natural disinfectant. Therefore, when cleaning a surface with hot water, it does not only clean the surface, but it also kills bacteria such as algae. This keeps the surface cleaner for a longer period of time. Imagine cleaning your dishes with cold water – much less effective.
Additionally, hot water has the ability to cut grease. This makes hot water pressure washing very useful in places such as parking garages where cars tend to leave behind greasy fluids from things like oil or transmission leaks.
Unlike cold water pressure washing, hot water can remove gum by melting it off the surface and it makes it possible to pressure wash in colder weather. As long as the temperature is above 32 degrees, the surface can be cleaned with hot water.
Can you remove graffiti?
Graffiti is another FAQ we get and the answer is simply, absolutely! Not only can we remove all paint-based graffiti, but we do it safely. In some instances, graffiti may be found near vegetation or other sensitive surfaces. With our environmentally friendly graffiti removal products, we can get rid of the graffiti without damaging the surrounding area.
Is it true my garage can experience severe damage from a lack of pressure washing?
Another FAQ we get! Pressure washing horizontal surfaces is crucial in areas that experience colder climates and require salt application on the roads and sidewalks during the winter. Salt is extremely corrosive and can cause surfaces, such as concrete, to quickly deteriorate.
In examples such as parking garages where there is rebar or tension cables within the concrete, the salt can actually compromise the integrity of the floors as it deteriorates the metal and causes the concrete to crack. This can be prevented with a regular pressure washing maintenance cleaning every year. We also recommend applying water repellent to concrete floors in order to further protect the surface and prevent water penetration issues. If you have any more questions that weren’t answered in our FAQ section contact us regarding your FAQ below!
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