Why You Should Hire a Professional Pressure Washing Company vs. DIY

Sep 19, 2023


The Allure of DIY Pressure Washing

We've all been there. A sunny weekend, a trip to the local hardware store, and suddenly, you're the proud owner of a brand-new pressure washer. Visions of blasting away years of dirt and grime from your driveway fill your head. But before you start imagining yourself as the superhero of cleanliness, let's dive into why hiring a professional might be the better choice.



1. The Art of Pressure Washing


Even if you regularly use your pressure sprayer around your home a few times a year, the experience a professional gains doing thousands of jobs a year can't be matched in a DIY setting. Every day, pros see it all. From every kind of grease imaginable, to dirt and stains, and many decades of caked-on grime. That kind of experience builds knowledge, adds technique, and delivers the expertise to get jobs done better, faster, and without mishaps.


DIY Thought: "It's just water, right? How hard can it be?"


Reality:  Pressure washing is more of an art than it seems. Too much pressure and you might damage your property; too little and you're just giving your driveway a gentle sprinkle. Professionals have the experience to know the right amount of pressure for different surfaces.


2. Time is Money


Never mind that pros work much faster, they also clean deeper while doing it. That means the job they do lasts longer, greatly reducing the number of times each year you have to lug the equipment out, change spark plugs, oil filters, fittings, and hoses. Of course, maybe you do enjoy the workout of trying to pull-start that sucker after it spends a winter in the garage or crawlspace. Seriously, though, exercise keeps you healthy, so we can't knock that aspect of it.


DIY Thought: "I'll save so much money doing it myself!"


Reality:  While it's true that renting or buying a pressure washer might seem cost-effective, consider the time you'll spend. A professional can get the job done in a fraction of the time, leaving you free to binge-watch your favorite show or try that new taco place downtown.


3. Safety First!


Your neighbor has that new $699 Dewalt 3600 PSI power sprayer. That means you MUST HAVE the 4400 PSI!!!! AAAAAH!!! AHHHHHH! (Imagine Sam Kinison here). It's only $899, after all. Chickenfeed, amiright?! Anyway, and I'm just sayin', but do you know - for sure - you're man or woman enough for that bad boy?


Ever see what a pressure washer that powerful does when it accidentally hits your wife's hand while she's holding those flower pots she wants to clean out? Watch this, but, be VERY warned! All joking aside, these are graphic images, so don't click if you're squeamish.


This is one of the best, most informative (albeit shocking) videos about the dangers of DIY pressure spraying out there. It's well worth the watch. If you can handle it. Which, if you even THINK you can't, don't click. We're serious. You have been warned.


DIY Thought: "I've watched a YouTube tutorial. I'm practically a pro!"


Reality:  Pressure washers are powerful machines. Without proper training, you risk injuring yourself or others. Professionals have undergone training and have safety equipment to prevent accidents.


4. The Environment Thanks You


If you watch even a bit of the news, you'll see Mother Earth isn't exactly in the best shape these days. Too many. DIY pressure washers use dangerous, deadly solutions in their cleaner that we're never meant for pressure washing - or dumped into the ground around your garden, pets, or your kids.


DIY Thought: "Water is eco-friendly!"


Reality: While water is indeed eco-friendly, the runoff from pressure washing can contain harmful chemicals and pollutants. Professionals use eco-friendly cleaning solutions and have methods to prevent harmful runoff.


5. The "Oops" Factor


DIY Thought: "Oops! Was that my window?"


The image in the banner of this blog illustrates the power of pressure sprayers (and the potential damage you can do). Pros are often called in after a homeowner has blown out homes windows, damaged vehicles, harmed pets, or ruined exterior surfaces that can't easily - or affordably - be repaired.


Reality: Mistakes happen, especially when handling powerful equipment. A slip of the hand could lead to broken windows or damaged plants. Professionals have insurance to cover any accidental damage, giving you peace of mind.


6. The Aftermath


DIY Thought: "Done! Wait, why is there a puddle in my basement?"


Probably the top problem facing the DIY pressure washer is unexpected, uh, dampness in places they never expected. Your home has lots of cracks and crevices that are not meant to experience a firehose of water. Water...will...get...everywhere: behind walls, under floors, on top of ceilings, into basements, all around cabinets, and more.


Reality: Improper pressure washing can lead to water seeping into places it shouldn't, like your basement or walls. Professionals ensure that water is directed away from sensitive areas.


7. The Joy of Results


DIY Thought: "It looks... okay?"


Reality: There's a certain satisfaction in seeing your property gleam after a professional clean. Professionals have the tools and expertise to ensure consistent and impressive results.


Conclusion: The Clear Choice


While the DIY route might seem tempting (and a chance to show off your new toy to the neighbors), hiring a professional pressure washing company ensures safety, efficiency, and top-notch results. Plus, think of all the fun things you can do with the time you save!


Ready to see your property shine? Don't risk the "Oops" factor. Contact Premiere Surface Solutions today and leave the pressure washing to the pros. And hey, if you still want to play with water, there's always the garden hose!


Disclaimer: No driveways were harmed in the making of this blog. Always remember, a clean home is a happy home, but a professionally cleaned home? That's pure bliss!

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