If you live in Florida, you know how quickly the outside of your house can get dirty. Between the salty air, constant humidity, sudden storms, and all the bugs and pollen, your siding, stucco, and walkways don’t stay clean for long. You might have tried pressure washing or thought about doing it yourself, but there’s a big concern: what if you damage your home in the process?
You’re not alone in feeling nervous. Many Florida homeowners worry about cracking stucco, stripping paint, or forcing water behind siding when washing their homes. These are valid concerns; if you use too much pressure or the wrong technique, you can cause damage that leads to expensive repairs.
This article is here to help you do it right. We’ll walk you through exactly how to pressure wash your home safely without damaging the exterior. You’ll learn how to prep your home, choose the right pressure washer and cleaning solution, and avoid the most common mistakes. And since this is Florida, we’ll talk about mold, mildew, algae, and all the extra challenges of our climate.
At Rhino Shield, we know exterior protection better than anyone. We specialize in long-term coatings that endure Florida’s worst weather, and we understand what it takes to maintain home exteriors year after year safely. Let’s help you take the worry out of pressure washing.
What Happens If You Pressure Wash Incorrectly?
Pressure washing sounds easy, but it can cause more harm than good if done wrong. Using too much pressure or spraying at the wrong angle can lead to serious problems:
- Peeling Paint: Even strong paint can come off if the water pressure is too high.
- Cracking Stucco: Stucco is tough, but it has weak spots. Water jets can force open cracks or chip the surface.
- Warping Wood: If you have wooden siding, too much water can soak in and cause it to swell or rot.
- Water Intrusion: Shooting water into gaps around windows or under siding can lead to mold inside your walls.
Florida homes are especially vulnerable because many are built with materials like stucco or Hardie board that need gentle care. The goal isn’t to blast your house clean; it’s to wash it carefully without stripping away protective coatings or letting moisture in.
Know Your Surfaces: What Can (and Can’t) Be Pressure Washed
Before you start, examine the materials in your house. Not every surface can withstand the same level of pressure.
Safe to Pressure Wash (with correct settings):
- Concrete driveways and sidewalks
- Brick and block (use a lower PSI on older mortar)
- Vinyl siding (be cautious around seams)
- Stucco (only at very low PSI with wide nozzle)
- Hardie board (fiber cement)
Not Safe for Pressure Washing (or should be avoided):
- Asphalt shingles (use soft washing instead)
- Painted wood (can strip the paint or soak the wood)
- Old or loose caulking (might wash away)
When in doubt, test a small spot. If the material shows signs of damage or if water is getting in behind it, stop and reassess.
Tools of the Trade: Picking the Right Pressure Washer and Nozzles
To safely pressure wash a Florida home exterior, you need the right equipment:
- PSI Rating: Look for a machine between 1,300 and 2,800 PSI. For siding and stucco, stay on the lower end.
- GPM (Gallons Per Minute): A GPM of 1.5 to 2.5 is usually enough for home use.
- Nozzle Color System:
- Red (0 degrees): Don’t use it! It can etch concrete.
- Yellow (15 degrees): Good for hard surfaces like driveways.
- Green (25 degrees): Best for general cleaning.
- White (40 degrees): Ideal for siding and stucco.
Electric washers are easier to handle and quieter but less powerful. Gas models offer more pressure and volume but require more care and are louder.
Also, consider getting:
- Extension wands for second-story areas
- Surface cleaners for driveways
- Gutter attachments
Using the wrong nozzle is one of the most common ways people damage their homes. Always start with the widest angle and the lowest pressure.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution for Florida Conditions
Florida homes face unique issues like mold, mildew, algae, and salt. A pressure washer alone might not remove all of it. That’s where cleaning solutions help.
Look for products labeled:
- Mold and mildew remover
- Algae control
- Biodegradable and safe for plants
Avoid harsh bleach mixes that could kill your lawn or discolor surfaces. Many Florida homeowners use a mix of water, gentle soap, and a mold-killing additive. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and apply with a pump sprayer or soap nozzle.
Prepping Your Home’s Exterior Before Washing
Before turning on the machine, take time to prepare. Skipping this step can lead to damage.
Checklist for Pressure Washing Prep:
- Inspect the exterior: Look for cracks in stucco, peeling paint, or loose siding.
- Seal electrical outlets and light fixtures: Use plastic bags and tape.
- Cover plants and landscaping: Use plastic sheeting or lightweight tarps.
- Close all windows and doors: Double-check seals.
- Remove patio furniture or decorations: Clear the work area.
Prepping thoroughly reduces the risk of water intrusion and makes the job go more smoothly.
Safe Pressure Washing Techniques for Florida Homes
When you start washing, use slow, steady movements. Don’t rush, and don’t aim too close.
Best Practices:
- Hold the wand at a 45-degree angle
- Stay at least 12-18 inches away from the surface
- Work from the top down
- Use overlapping strokes
Never spray upward into siding gaps or roof lines. This forces water behind the materials and can lead to internal damage.
If you’re using a cleaning solution, apply it first and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
What PSI Is Best for Each Material? (Florida Edition)
Use these guidelines to choose the safest pressure levels:
- Stucco: 1,200 to 1,500 PSI
- Vinyl Siding: 1,300 to 1,600 PSI
- Brick: 1,500 to 2,000 PSI
- Concrete: 2,000 to 2,800 PSI
- Wood Siding: 1,000 to 1,200 PSI
- Hardie Board: 1,300 to 1,800 PSI
Always start with the lowest pressure in the range and test a small, hidden spot before proceeding with the whole surface.
Dealing with Mold, Mildew, and Algae in Humid Florida Weather
Mold, mildew, and algae are constant problems in Florida because of the heat and humidity. You’ll see green, black, or gray patches on your siding or roof, especially on the north-facing sides of your home.
To treat them effectively:
- Use a detergent specifically labeled for mold and mildew
- Let it sit on the surface before rinsing
- Wash shaded areas more often to prevent buildup
Keeping your gutters clean and trimming back vegetation can also reduce moisture buildup.
When to Call a Professional Pressure Washing Company
Some jobs are too big, delicate, or risky for DIY.
Call a pro if:
- Your home is two stories or higher
- You have delicate paint or specialty coatings
- You see signs of water damage or rot
- You need roof cleaning (which should be soft-washed)
Professionals have commercial-grade equipment and know how to adjust pressure and chemicals based on your home’s materials.
Maintenance Tips: How Often Should You Pressure Wash in Florida?
In Florida’s damp climate, most homes need cleaning at least once a year. You might need to do it twice if you live near the coast or under large trees.
Watch for signs like:
- Discoloration or dark streaks
- Slippery walkways
- Algae on siding
Regular washing keeps your home looking fresh and helps prevent permanent stains and damage.
Conclusion
Pressure washing is one of the best ways to maintain your Florida home, but it has to be done carefully. You now know how to choose the right tools, use the right PSI, prepare your surfaces, and deal with common problems like mold and mildew.
By following the tips in this guide, you can safely pressure wash the exterior of your Florida home without damage and keep it looking great for years to come.
When in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact professionals like Rhino Shield. We understand Florida homes, and we’re here to help you protect them properly.
If you’re interested in getting paint on your new home that’ll last far longer than the typical 5 – 7 years, check out Rhino Shield here.
You can also get a free, no-obligation quote from us by clicking this link.
