Summertime is the season of sunshine, backyard BBQs, and—unfortunately—some serious pressure washing blunders. With warm weather and longer days, many homeowners in Worcester County, MA jump into exterior cleaning projects without realizing how easily a sparkling goal can turn into an expensive mistake. High temperatures, water restrictions, and strong UV rays change the way pressure washing should be handled in summer.
Before you fire up that washer, here are the top summer pressure washing mistakes to avoid—and pro tips from the experts at New England Pressure Cleaning to save time, water, and money.
Table of Contents
Mistake #1: Overusing Pressure and Damaging Surfaces
More pressure doesn’t mean more clean—it often means more damage.
Common Victims:
- Vinyl siding that cracks or warps
- Wood decks that splinter or fray
- Asphalt shingles that lose granules
- Concrete that etches or chips
Why it Happens in Summer:
Heat softens materials, making them more vulnerable to high-pressure water. If you’re not adjusting the settings for temperature and surface type, you’re likely doing more harm than good.
Pro Tips:
- Use a wide-angle nozzle to distribute water gently.
- Start with the lowest pressure setting and test a small area.
- Hire a pro for delicate surfaces like roofs or old paint jobs (roof cleaning pros here).
Mistake #2: Underestimating the Summer Heat
DIY pressure washing can get brutal in summer heat—and not just for your siding.
Dangers Include:
- Overheating your pressure washer
- Skin burns from hot surfaces or water splashback
- Heat exhaustion or dehydration for the operator
Pro Tips:
- Work early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Wear light, protective clothing and stay hydrated.
- Avoid working on hot surfaces like asphalt that radiate heat.
DIY might feel doable, but heatstroke and high-pressure injuries are no joke. Let professionals like New England Pressure Cleaning handle the hard parts.
Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Cleaning Solution in High Temperatures
Did you know hot weather can deactivate or alter the performance of your cleaning detergents?
What Can Go Wrong:
- Chemicals dry too quickly and leave streaks
- Surfaces become stained or discolored
- Plants get scorched by overexposed solutions
Pro Tips:
- Choose summer-friendly, biodegradable detergents.
- Never let cleaning solutions bake on hot surfaces—rinse promptly.
- Wet nearby landscaping before and after cleaning to protect plants.
On extremely hot days, consider skipping chemical additives altogether or use a soft washing service instead.
Mistake #4: Pressure Washing During a Drought or Water Restriction
Pressure washing can use up to 8 gallons per minute—that adds up fast.
Consequences Include:
- Violating local water ordinances
- Fines from the city or HOA
- Straining already low water tables
Pro Tips:
- Always check for local water use restrictions before starting.
- Use professional services that optimize water usage.
- Consider dry brushing or spot cleaning if restrictions are active.
Save water and stress—our eco-friendly services are optimized for New England’s changing summer climate.
Mistake #5: Rushing the Process or Skipping Prep Work
Summer makes people want fast results, but pressure washing isn’t a race.
What Gets Missed:
- Skipping surface prep like sweeping or wetting down areas
- Not covering windows, outlets, or delicate plants
- Overlooking safety gear like goggles and non-slip shoes
Pro Tips:
- Block off time for prep—it’s half the job.
- Always work top-down to avoid re-soiling clean areas.
- Call in the pros for multi-story homes or tight spots.
Summer Pressure Washing Done Right
Avoiding these summer pressure washing mistakes can make all the difference between a refreshed home and an expensive cleanup job.
Quick Recap Checklist:
- Use the right pressure for each surface
- Avoid midday heat and stay safe
- Pick weather-appropriate cleaners
- Respect local water restrictions
- Prep and plan ahead
Ready to do it the right way?
Let the experts at New England Pressure Cleaning handle your summer refresh without the risks. Call 508-426-6209, visit our website, or check out our Google Maps location to book your service today.
Pressure washing is an art—and we’re Worcester County’s trusted artists.