A Step-By-Step Guide To Pressure Washing Your Parking Facility.
3/1/2024. Written By Joshua D. Bennett.
Maintaining a clean and well-maintained parking facility is crucial for creating a positive experience for tenants, customers, and visitors. Regular pressure washing is essential for keeping your parking facility looking its best and ensuring a safe and healthy environment. This comprehensive guide will take you through the step-by-step process of pressure washing your parking facility, including preparing the area, choosing the right pressure washer, applying cleaning solution, pressure washing the surface, drying the surface, and maintaining the parking facility.
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Step 1. Prepare the Area.
You will want to be sure to clear the parking facility of all vehicles and objects. Protect any sensitive areas, such as electrical outlets or landscaping, with waterproof tarps or coverings. Power Sweep the area to remove large debris, such as leaves and trash, from the surface. Wet the surface of the parking facility with a garden hose to loosen dirt and grime.
Step 2. Choose the Right Pressure Washer.
The next step is getting the proper equipment. A pressure washer with a pressure rating of at least 2,000 PSI and a flow rate of at least 2 gallons per minute works best for most situations. However, you may need more or less depending on the surface you’re cleaning. Ensure the pressure washer is in good working condition and has all the necessary attachments and auxiliary supplies like a variety of nozzles, extension wands, plumber’s tape, quick connections, and back up O-rings.
Step 3. Apply the correct Cleaning Solution.
Next, apply a cleaning solution that is specifically designed for the surface you are pressure washing. While Dawn dish soap may be fine for some cleaning projects, it is not suitable for pressure washing. Check out our blog on pressure washing detergents and when to use them. Types of cleaning solutions include all-purpose, heavy-duty, biodegradable, digressers, and antimicrobial. Be sure to read the product label to ensure you are using the proper rations and application methods.
Step 4. Pressure Wash the Surface.
Start pressure washing from the farthest corner of the parking facility and work your way back towards the entrance to ensure you are able to get out while your project is drying. Typically, you will want to hold the pressure washer wand at a 45-degree angle to the surface and spray in a sweeping motion. Overlapping each pass by about 50% will help ensure a thorough cleaning. Be sure to rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution as they can leave a film on your facility, leaving it looking worse than before.
Step 5. Dry the Surface.
You will want to allow the surface to dry completely before allowing foot traffic or vehicles to park on it. This may vary based on a number of factors like surface temperature, solution, location, and more. You can use a squeegee or a wet/dry vacuum to remove excess water and high-powered fans to speed up the process. Just be sure the power cords are safely run away from any wet areas.
Step 6. Maintain the Parking Facility.
Regularly sweep or blow away dirt, leaves, and debris from the surface. Waterproof the parking surface by applying a sealant or protective coating every few years to protect it from damage and extend its lifespan. Asphalt or spalling repair will also help keep your parking facility looking great and easily cleaned for years to come.
Pressure washing your parking facility is a crucial maintenance task that can significantly improve the overall appearance and functionality of your property. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this blog, you can ensure a thorough and effective cleaning process. Remember to prioritize safety and use the right equipment and techniques to achieve the best results. Regular pressure washing will not only maintain the aesthetic appeal of your parking facility but also extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs in the long run.