Sidewalks covered in dirt, grime and mold are an eyesore, and they can also be dangerous. The mold and fungus that accumulate on concrete or brick can cause health problems, and they can make sidewalks slippery and treacherous to walk on. Pressure washing can make sidewalks look like new again in just an hour or so, but there are some downsides you may want to consider. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of having your sidewalks pressure washed so that you can decide if this is right for you.
Pro: Pressure Washing Improves Curb Appeal
People make judgements about your home as soon as they lay eyes on it, and that means they make judgments about you. A pristine sidewalk free of dirt and debris will improve the curb appeal of your home, and it will let your visitors know that you care about your property and do everything you can to take care of it.
Con: Pressure Washing Can Damage Concrete
Pressure washers expel water at pressures of up to 3,000 PSI, which is powerful enough to chip or crack concrete surfaces. Pressure washing can also wear away the sand and mortar that hold sidewalk paving stones in place. When this happens, sidewalks can sink and become uneven. These problems are more likely to occur when pressure washers are fitted with the wrong nozzles. High-pressure and zero-degree nozzles are great for tackling really tough jobs, but they must be used carefully. In most situations, a fan nozzle is all that’s required to clean a sidewalk.
Pro: Pressure Washing Makes Sidewalks Safer
Homeowners in many parts of the country are expected to make sure their sidewalks are safe, and they can be sued if they don’t. A sidewalk made treacherous by mold and grime makes slip-and-fall accidents more likely, and homeowners can be held liable if they were aware of safety issues and did nothing about them. Regular pressure washing removes mold and grime, makes sidewalks safer and prevents lawsuits.
Con: Pressure Washing Chemicals Can Be Dangerous
Chemical cleaners and degreasers can make sidewalks look like new again. They can also be dangerous. These chemicals can irritate the skin and make breathing difficult, and they kill flowers and grass. Professionals know how hazardous these chemicals can be, so they use them sparingly and dilute them properly.
If your sidewalks are starting to look a little worse for wear, professionals can make them look great again. Trained experts use equipment that will clean your sidewalks without damaging them, and safety is their top priority.
If you would like to learn more about our pressure washing services, contact our professionals at Turbo Pressure Pros in Louisville, KY, and ask for a free estimate today.
