How To Pressure Wash A House To Prepare For An Open House 

Preparing your home for an open house requires everything to look spotless and inviting. While staging the interior grabs a buyer’s attention, the exterior is the first thing they notice.

Pressure washing your home is an effective way to make a stellar first impression by removing dirt, mold, and grime that dull your property’s charm.  

This guide walks you through how to pressure wash your house and ensure it’s show-ready for potential buyers. 

Why Pressure Washing Is Essential Before an Open House 

The outside of your home tells a story, and you want it to say, “This is a well-maintained property worth exploring.”

Over time, your house’s exterior can accumulate dirt, algae, and mildew, which can make it look older and less appealing.

Pressure washing makes your home look fresh and clean, makes it more attractive to buyers, and helps it grab attention compared to other homes.

Plus, it gives buyers the impression that you’ve cared for the property, potentially increasing your home’s perceived value. 

For the best results, you can hire a professional pressure washing company. Their expertise ensures a thorough cleaning that can make your home stand out in today’s competitive market.

Below are the steps on how to pressure wash a house to prepare for an open house.

Step 1: Prepare Your Home and Surroundings 

Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks, loose paint, or damaged siding, and address these issues beforehand to prevent further damage.

Clear the area by removing patio furniture, decorations, and potted plants. Cover delicate landscaping with plastic sheeting to protect it from detergent and overspray. 

Make sure all windows and doors are securely closed to prevent water from seeping inside. For added safety, cover outdoor electrical outlets with waterproof tape or turn off the power entirely to avoid accidents during the process. 

Step 2: Choose the Right Pressure and Nozzle 

For wood siding or decking, use a low pressure of 500-1,200 PSI with a 25-degree nozzle to avoid splintering.

Vinyl siding requires a moderate pressure of 1,300-1,600 PSI with the same nozzle to clean effectively without cracking. 

For tougher surfaces like brick or concrete, use 2,500-3,000 PSI with a 15-degree nozzle for deeper cleaning. Always test the pressure and nozzle on a small, hidden area to prevent accidental damage. 

Step 3: Apply Cleaning Solution 

Mix the detergent as directed by the manufacturer, ensuring the right balance for effective cleaning. Use your pressure washer’s detergent tank or a sprayer attachment for easy application. 

Switch to the soap nozzle and spray the solution evenly from bottom to top to avoid streaks. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to break down dirt, but don’t let it dry to prevent residue or streaking. 

Step 4: Pressure Wash Your Home 

Start by rinsing off the detergent with a 25-degree nozzle, working from top to bottom in smooth, overlapping strokes. This ensures grime and soap residue are completely removed while avoiding streaks. 

For tougher stains, use a 15-degree nozzle or pre-treat spots with a scrub brush and cleaning solution. Work in sections, completing one area at a time to ensure thorough cleaning and consistent results across the entire exterior. 

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Details 

Wash windows and frames with a low-pressure setting to avoid streaks and enhance natural light. Clean gutters to remove dirt and debris, giving your home a well-maintained look. 

Don’t overlook driveways and walkways; pressure washing these areas removes stains and creates an inviting path for buyers. These small touches elevate your home’s appeal, leaving a polished and lasting impression. 

Step 6: Allow Everything To Dry 

After pressure washing, let your home dry completely before putting up decorations or holding the open house. This prevents water spots and streaks from forming. 

Low Angle View of a Man Power Washing a Patio, power washing, patio cleaning, outdoor cleaning, pressure washing

Common Mistakes To Avoid 

One major pitfall is using too much pressure, which can harm siding, strip paint, or even crack windows.

It’s best to start with a lower pressure setting and adjust as needed for the specific surface you’re cleaning.

Additionally, skipping safety precautions is a significant mistake. Wear gloves and safety goggles, and never point the spray at yourself or others.

Another mistake to avoid is ignoring the environmental impact of pressure washing. Harsh chemicals can harm plants, animals, and waterways, so it’s important to choose biodegradable detergents that are safe for the environment.

Washing in direct sunlight is often overlooked but can lead to streaks, as water dries too quickly under the sun.

Instead, plan your pressure washing for an overcast day or during cooler times in the morning or evening.

Attention to detail can make a big difference, leaving your property looking clean and well-maintained without the risk of damage or unintended consequences.

When To Call a Professional 

Hiring a professional for pressure washing is ideal if you’re short on time, have a large or multi-story home, or feel uncertain about handling the equipment.

Professionals work efficiently, use specialized tools for hard-to-reach areas, and ensure your home is cleaned without damage.

Their expertise delivers polished, streak-free results, saving you effort and ensuring your home looks its best. 

Final Touches Before the Open House 

After pressure washing, your home’s exterior should already look refreshed, but enhancing its appeal further can create a lasting impression.

Start by adding curb appeal—plant vibrant flowers, trim the lawn, and place a welcoming doormat at the entrance. These small touches can make your home feel inviting from the moment potential buyers arrive.

Sparkling, streak-free windows contribute to the overall sense of cleanliness and allow natural light to flood inside, highlighting your home’s interior features.

Shiny windows also improve the view from both the inside and outside, helping your property look well-maintained.

Finally, take care of any repainting touch-ups. Pressure washing can sometimes reveal areas with peeling or faded paint.

Addressing these imperfections with a fresh paint coat can give your home a polished and well-cared-for appearance, reinforcing its value in the eyes of prospective buyers.

Conclusion 

Pressure washing revitalizes your home’s exterior, enhances curb appeal, and shows potential buyers that you’ve taken excellent care of the property.

With the right tools, techniques, and attention to detail, you can make your home stand out and attract serious offers.

Grab your pressure washer and get started—you’ll be surprised how much a good cleaning can transform your home! 

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Author at Huliq.

Written By James Huliq