You’ve done the research, picked a great power washing company, and scheduled the appointment. Nice work! But don’t kick back just yet — there’s one more step before the water starts blasting: prep your property. 🧽💦
Prepping your home before a power washing service ensures the job gets done efficiently, safely, and thoroughly. Think of it like getting ready for a haircut — you don’t show up with a hat on, right? 🎩✂️
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to prepare your home (and yard) for a professional power washing visit. ✅
🚪 1. Clear Access to the Work Areas
Before the crew arrives, make sure they can easily reach the surfaces that need cleaning. This includes:
- Moving vehicles out of the driveway or garage
- Clearing furniture from patios or decks
- Unlocking gates or fences that block access
- Pulling garbage cans, planters, and grills away from walls and sidewalks
Think of it this way: the less time they spend moving your stuff, the more time they can spend actually cleaning. 🚗🌿🪑
🐶 2. Secure Pets and Inform the Crew
If you have dogs, cats, or even curious outdoor bunnies, make sure they’re safely indoors or in a secure space far from the work zone.
Power washing equipment can be loud and intimidating to pets, and technicians can’t be expected to manage animals on your property. 🐕🐾
Also, if there’s a dog in the backyard or a cat that might dart outside, let the crew know — it’s a small gesture that keeps everyone safe.
🌿 3. Protect Plants and Delicate Landscaping
Most professional power washing companies will avoid spraying plants directly, but it’s still smart to take a few precautions.
Do this:
- Cover shrubs and flowers near the work area with a tarp or old sheet
- Move potted plants away from walls and railings
- Water your plants well the night before — it helps dilute any overspray of detergent
🌱 Pro tip: Ask the crew if they’re using biodegradable, plant-safe detergents (many do!).
💡 4. Shut Off Outdoor Electronics and Lights
If you have outdoor outlets, speakers, lights, or security systems, make sure they’re protected:
- Turn off power to any outdoor plugs if possible
- Cover fixtures and exposed wires with plastic or painter’s tape
- Let the crew know where any sensitive equipment is located
Water and electricity do not mix well, so a little extra caution goes a long way. ⚡🚫💧
🪟 5. Close Windows, Doors, and Vents Tightly
Double-check that all windows and doors are:
- Fully closed and latched
- Properly sealed (no gaps or cracks in the weather stripping)
- Any vents or dryer ducts are protected, if they’re near washing zones
If water seeps into a cracked window or loose door, it can cause damage or soggy carpets inside. No one wants to clean up after the cleaning. 🧼😅
📦 6. Remove or Secure Loose Decor
Take down anything hanging near the cleaning area:
- Wind chimes
- Hanging plants
- Flags
- Welcome signs
- Wall-mounted lights (if they’re fragile)
Even small items can be damaged or sent flying by high-pressure water. Store them in the garage or inside for the day. 🎏🔩
🗣️ 7. Communicate Special Concerns in Advance
Do you have:
- Cracked stucco?
- Loose siding?
- A fragile paint job?
- Leaky windows?
Let the crew know before they start. It helps them adjust the water pressure, change detergents, or avoid the area entirely.
💬 A quick text, email, or note on the front door makes a difference — and protects your property.
📄 8. Know What to Expect After the Service
Power washing isn’t magic, but it’s pretty close. That said, be prepared for:
- Temporary water pooling in low areas
- A slight detergent smell for a few hours
- Surfaces needing time to dry fully (wood decks, in particular)
- Some minor debris on lawns from dislodged dirt or moss
Most pros clean up well, but you may want to give things a once-over the next day to make sure it’s all tidy.
🔁 Bonus: Plan Your Next Steps
If you’re planning to:
- Paint or stain after power washing
- Seal a driveway
- Add outdoor decor or furniture
Make sure you wait until surfaces are fully dry — usually 24 to 48 hours depending on the material. You’ve invested in a clean surface, so give it time to settle. 🎨🪑
✅ Final Thoughts
Power washing can totally transform your home’s exterior — but just like any good transformation, preparation is key. By taking a little time to clear, protect, and communicate, you’ll help the job go faster, safer, and smoother. 🏠✨
So before the crew pulls up, take a quick lap around your property:
✅ Move furniture
✅ Lock pets inside
✅ Cover the plants
✅ Shut the windows
✅ Remove the wind chimes
With everything in place, all that’s left is to sit back and let the water work its magic. 💦🧽
