Pressure washing can be an effective way to maintain the exterior of your home, but it is important to make sure you are working with a professional who knows what they are doing. Here are four questions you should ask any residential pressure washer before they start spraying.

1. What kind of experience do you have? 

Many residential pressure washing companies will advertise their qualifications, so don't be afraid to ask for specifics. Find out how long they have been in business, if they have specialized training or certifications, and if they have any customer reviews or ratings that you can look at. While it may seem easy, pressure washing takes skill. There is a fine line between using just enough pressure to remove stains and using too much pressure and accidentally removing vinyl siding. An inexperienced cleaner can ruin your home's exterior in the blink of an eye.

2. What type of equipment do you use?

Pressure washers come in many different sizes and strengths, so it's important to ensure the one your contractor uses is appropriate for your project. For example, larger projects may require industrial-grade pressure washers that offer more power and higher water pressures than those used for smaller jobs. However, using a high-powered washer on a soft pine deck could result in grooves cut into the wood.

3. Will environmentally friendly cleaning products be used?

While there are environmentally friendly detergents and solvents on the market, not every pressure-washing company uses them. Many residential pressure-washing companies use detergents that contain harsh chemicals which can harm plants or pollute local waterways when they run off into them during rinsing cycles. If this is an issue that you are passionate about, talk to the contractor to better understand their decision-making process.

4. Do you have insurance?

Accidents can happen, and it's important to make sure you are covered in case of any damage. You may need to make a claim for any damages incurred during the job. Ask the contractor if they carry general liability insurance. Professional residential pressure washers should be able to show you proof of insurance before you hire them. If you hire a neighbor's kid to pressure wash instead of a true professional, you are doing so at your own risk.

Before you hire anyone to work on your home, it is important to ask a few key questions first. Doing this simple due diligence upfront will save time, money, and heartache in the long run.

Contact a local residential pressure washing service to learn more.