You’ve booked a professional power washing service — great! But before the crew arrives with hoses, sprayers, and detergents, there are a few steps you can take to make the job smoother, safer, and more effective. 🧼💦
Preparing your home doesn’t have to be complicated, but it makes a big difference in protecting your property and helping the technicians work efficiently.
Here’s your complete prep checklist. ✅
🚪 1. Secure All Windows and Doors
Power washing involves high-pressure water, and even the best technician can’t stop a stray droplet from sneaking through a cracked window.
- Close and lock all windows and doors
- Check for broken seals or cracked caulking
- Remove or cover window screens if needed
- Seal off any known gaps with weatherproof tape
Water can cause mildew or interior damage if it seeps in — so a tight seal is a must! 🪟
🪴 2. Move Outdoor Furniture, Plants, and Décor
Anything that can be moved should be moved — this gives your technician room to work and protects your belongings.
- Patio chairs, tables, rugs
- Potted plants, birdbaths, planters
- Outdoor toys, grills, garden décor
Relocate items at least 10–15 feet away from the area being washed, or store them in the garage or shed. 🚛
If you have fragile plants or landscaping features that can’t be moved, cover them with tarps and alert the technician.
🔌 3. Shut Off Exterior Power Sources
Electricity and water? Not a good combo. 💡❌💧
- Turn off and cover outdoor electrical outlets
- Cover light fixtures and doorbells with plastic
- If you have a generator, HVAC unit, or pool pump, let the technician know
Use painter’s tape and plastic bags to seal switches and outlets — many power washing companies also bring protective covers, but it’s smart to double up.
🧴 4. Clear Away Debris
Leaves, sticks, spiderwebs, and other buildup can make cleaning slower and less effective.
- Sweep off patios and porches
- Trim back overgrown bushes
- Rake loose mulch or gravel away from the house
This makes the power washing more focused on deep stains and grime — not clearing away yard debris.
🐶 5. Secure Pets Indoors
If you have dogs, cats, or curious animals, make sure they’re safely inside for the duration of the service.
- Loud equipment can stress animals
- Open gates may pose an escape risk
- Some detergents could irritate skin or paws 🐾
Even if your pet is friendly, it’s best to keep them away from the action.
🅿️ 6. Move Vehicles and Close the Garage
Power washing can cause water mist, detergent splatter, or debris to fly through the air. To avoid unwanted streaks on your car:
- Park vehicles away from the work zone
- Close your garage door
- If needed, move bikes or tools inside
This also gives the crew clear access to walkways, driveways, and siding. 🚗
🔧 7. Talk to the Technicians Before They Begin
On service day, spend 5 minutes reviewing the plan with the crew. Share:
- Areas of concern (mildew spots, fragile siding)
- What’s already been prepped
- Any areas to avoid
- Location of exterior water sources
Clear communication = better results and fewer surprises. 🗣️✅
🧽 8. Don’t Schedule Other Services at the Same Time
Avoid overlap with landscaping, painting, pest control, or deliveries during your power washing window. Too many moving parts can lead to delays or mix-ups.
Let your power washing team work uninterrupted — they’ll be done faster and more efficiently.
🧼 Final Thoughts
Prepping your home for a power washing service doesn’t take long — but it goes a long way in ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.
By protecting your property, clearing the area, and communicating clearly, you help the technicians do their best work and keep your home safe in the process.
Once it’s done, step back, take a deep breath, and enjoy the fresh, clean sparkle of your newly washed home. 🏡✨
