Warmer weather has arrived, and with it comes the usual rain and humidity. Thanks to this seasonal change, your buildings and facilities are getting covered in fine layers of dust, dirt and other pollutants carried by runoff. Over time, these areas will continue to get more dirty and will require pressure washing to restore their luster. At Atlantic Sweeping & Cleaning, we have the equipment and manpower to efficiently handle any pressure washing task.

Prior to starting a pressure washing project, it is important to conduct a detailed inspection of your property to determine the areas that need attention. At Atlantic Sweeping & Cleaning, we recommend checking the following areas:

• Gables/Overhangs
• Decorative Sheathing
• Foundation
• Railings
• Decks/Patios
• Sidewalks/Walkways
• Concrete Hardscapes & Walls
• Roofing
• Siding
• Soffit Areas
• Eaves
• Gutters
• Exterior Walls

While some pressure washing projects can be completed with your own employees using equipment you own or obtaining a rented pressure washer, a truly professional grade cleanup usually requires the touch of a professional. It is also critical to keep safety in mind. Pressure washing involves not only you and your employees’ personal safety, but also the safety of all others on site and the safety of the site itself. The trained professionals at Atlantic Sweeping & Cleaning will take the guesswork out of all of these issues and develop a plan to safely and efficiently make your facility spotless.

Do’s & Don’ts of Pressure Washing:

DO read the instruction manual for your machine before beginning your project to ensure safety and optimal equipment operation.

DO inspect and insure that all guards and safety shields are present and effective.

DO check engine oil levels before starting the power washer.

DO wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating pressure washing equipment.

DO ensure all nozzles and/or accessories are attached before startup.

DO Keep all body parts away from the pressure nozzle at all times.

DO Add a properly rated detergent or cleaning product to increase cleaning effectiveness.

DO direct the water at an appropriate angle when cleaning wooden surfaces. Aiming the nozzle at a surface head-on can cause splintering and other damage.

DO Ensure the water jet is at least six feet away from any type of electrical service boxes or wiring. Electric shock is a potentially deadly hazard.

DON’T add fuel to the tank while the pressure washer is running. This can be a potential fire hazard.

DON’T close the nozzle for more than sixty seconds while the pressure washer is running. This will cause the pump to overheat, resulting in costly equipment failure.

DON’T attempt repairing a leak in any hose or connection while the washer is running.

DON’T wash areas that may be sensitive without testing at a safe distance beforehand. Increasing the distance from the surface significantly will often be sufficient to allow safe cleaning.

DON’T point the nozzle at yourself or anyone else.

DON’T stay in one place with the spray jet for too long. The water jet can damage wood, leave dents in aluminum, erode stucco and mortar from joints. Also, never aim directly at windows.

DON’T ever pressure wash from a ladder – both hands are required for safe operation. The back pressure of the spray wand is sufficient to knock a person off balance when first engaged. Use an extension wand to reach higher places safely instead.

Power Washing Professionals-Atlantic Sweeping & Cleaning

Atlantic Sweeping & Cleaning is a professional property maintenance company. We provide property maintenance services to real estate developers, commercial property owners, and communities all over the Baltimore-Washington-Northern Virginia Capital Beltway area.

We will happily provide your buildings, sidewalks, walkways, parking lots, parking garages, warehouse, and dumpster areas with a freshly cleaned look.

If you’re in the communities we serve, contact us at (703) 684-1095

Or send us an email: info@atlanticsweepinginc.com

Visit our website atlanticsweeping.com anytime for more information on the services we offer.