How Do I Pressure Wash Tight Corners or Hard-to-Reach Spots?

Pressure washing is fantastic for large, open surfaces like driveways and decks. But what about those tricky, narrow areas — like behind AC units, around railing posts, in-between fence slats, or under the eaves of your roof?

These tight corners and hard-to-reach spots can easily be missed or left half-cleaned unless you know the right techniques. Let’s break down how to get the job done right — no scrubbing by hand required! 💪🧼

🧠 Why These Areas Are So Challenging

Here’s why small or confined spaces give people so much trouble:

Limited wand access
Awkward angles make consistent coverage hard
Surfaces are often fragile or detailed, like trim, lattice, or brick mortar
Overspray can wet nearby electrical components or windows
High-pressure settings can cause damage in close quarters

But don’t worry — with the right tools and techniques, you can hit those corners like a pro. 🎯

🧰 Equipment That Makes a Difference

If you’re relying only on a standard spray wand, you’re already at a disadvantage. Here’s what will help:

✅ 1. Turbo Nozzle (Rotary Tip)

This nozzle rotates a narrow, high-pressure stream in a circular motion, covering more surface area while penetrating grime in tight spots. Great for cleaning between bricks or slats. 🌀

✅ 2. Extension Wands

These let you reach up into eaves, gutters, or behind sheds and fences without a ladder. Many telescopic models can stretch up to 24 feet. 🪜

✅ 3. Angled Wand Attachments

Perfect for blasting under rooflines or into the backs of stairs. A 90° elbow tip gives you access where a straight wand can’t go. 🔧

✅ 4. Surface Cleaner with Edge Jet

These circular heads clean wide surfaces, but some come with edge-cleaning jets to flush out dirt along baseboards or seams.

✅ 5. Flexible Hose Extensions

Short, bendable wand extenders help twist into tight turns or behind awkward objects like grills, HVAC units, or furniture.

Browse Amazon Here For Popular Pressure Washers And Accessories

🔄 Techniques for Maximum Coverage

Using the right gear is only half the battle. You also need smart technique.

🟡 Start from the Outside In

Begin spraying from the outside edge of a tight space and move inward. This helps push dirt out rather than driving it deeper.

🟢 Use Lower Pressure at First

Start with a 25- or 40-degree nozzle to avoid chipping paint or blasting debris back at yourself in enclosed areas. Only increase pressure if needed.

🔵 Spray in Short Bursts

Don’t hold the trigger down continuously in a corner — you risk soaking electrical parts or causing splashback. Instead, use short, controlled bursts.

🔴 Work Top to Bottom

This applies especially in high areas like roof eaves or porch corners. Let gravity help guide dirty runoff down.

🧼 Problem Areas & How to Tackle Them

Spot	Strategy
Fence Corners	Use a turbo nozzle + angled wand. Spray vertically between slats.
Under Roof Eaves	Use an extension wand with 90° attachment. Stay grounded.
Deck Stairs	Work side-to-side with a short wand. Watch overspray on railings.
Around HVAC Units	Use low pressure. Avoid direct spray on components.
Garage Door Tracks	Clean inside using a 25° nozzle. Towel dry metal tracks after.

⚠️ What to Avoid

Direct spray on electrical boxes or outlets
Blasting upward into vents (forces water into your home)
Spraying too close to wooden trim or paint
Skipping safety gear in case of backsplash or flying debris

Always wear eye protection and non-slip shoes when cleaning narrow areas. 👟🕶️

💡 Tips for Spotless Results

Rinse with clean water immediately after cleaning small spaces
Use a soft-bristle brush for stubborn debris that won’t lift
Consider applying a mildew inhibitor if mold tends to return to these areas
Dry off wood or metal detailing to prevent rot or rust

🧽 Alternative Tools for Delicate Areas

Sometimes, even low-pressure settings are too strong. In that case:

Use a spray bottle with degreaser or vinegar
Wipe down the area with a sponge or microfiber cloth
Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle as a gentler option

This approach is ideal for decorative stonework, painted wood trim, or anything antique.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Tight corners and hard-to-reach spots might seem like the bane of pressure washing, but they’re just another challenge you can tackle with the right plan. ✅

Here’s what to remember: