Pressure washing is a highly effective way to clean and restore various surfaces, from residential homes to commercial buildings. However, the success of pressure washing largely depends on the use of the right chemical mixtures. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of pressure washing chemical mixtures, providing you with the knowledge and tools to create custom solutions for your specific cleaning needs.
Common Pressure Washing Chemicals
Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach)
- Concentration: Typically used at 10-12.5% concentration.
- Application: Effective for removing organic stains, algae, and mildew.
- Mixing: Can be mixed with surfactants like Dawn dish soap to improve surface wetting.
- Precautions: Ensure proper rinsing to prevent damage to surfaces and vegetation. Wet vegetation before and after use to prevent pH changes in the soil.
Hydrochloric Acid
- Application: Used for cleaning new brick, mortar, and concrete.
- Limitations: Not recommended for decorative or stamped concrete, as it can etch and damage the surface.
Oxalic Acid
- Application: Effective for removing red clay and rust stains from brick, block, and hard surfaces.
- Availability: Available in 55 lb bags and must be mixed with water for use.
Citric Acid
- Application: Found naturally in citrus fruits, used for sanitizing, disinfecting, and cleaning most surfaces.
- Advantages: Eco-friendly and safe for a wide range of surfaces.
Ammonia
- Application: A naturally produced gas used as an alkaline cleaner.
- Advantages: Safe for delicate surfaces like stainless steel and glass.
Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Potash or Lye)
- Application: Used to make liquid soap and is an essential component in pressure washing chemicals.
- Precautions: Avoid mixing with other chemicals unless recommended by the manufacturer.
Custom Mixtures for Specific Surfaces
House Washing
- Typical Mix: 50% Sodium Hypochlorite, 50% water, and 1 oz/gal surfactant (Elemonator).
- Adjustments: Adjust the mix strength as needed for different jobs.
Concrete
- Mix: Use a mix of Sodium Hypochlorite, surfactant, and water for effective cleaning.
- Considerations: Ensure proper rinsing to prevent damage to the concrete surface.
Rust Removal
- Products: Use acid-based products like One Restore, Diedrich 101, or Ruster Buster.
- Effectiveness: Highly effective for removing stubborn rust stains.
Aluminum
- Product: Use Alumanati for restoring aluminum surfaces.
- Advantages: Specifically formulated for aluminum, ensuring safe and effective cleaning.
Safety and Precautions
- Use Chemicals Individually: Avoid mixing chemicals unless recommended by the manufacturer to prevent unintended reactions.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure proper rinsing to prevent damage to surfaces and vegetation.
- Protect Vegetation: Wet vegetation before and after using bleach to prevent pH changes in the soil.
Eco-Friendly Options
- The Boss: An eco-friendly, water-based degreaser safe for most surfaces.
- Big Green Bruce: An eco-friendly cleaner effective for various surface stains.
- Hell Bender: A hydroxide-based cleaner safe for most outdoor surfaces.
Technical Specifications
- Packaging:
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Chemicals are commonly available in 5 gallon carboys, 15 and 55 gallon drums, and 275 and 330 gallon totes.
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Concentration:
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Sodium Hypochlorite is typically sold at 12.5% concentration.
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Storage:
- Store bleach away from direct sunlight to maintain its chlorine percentage.
References
- https://corecheminc.com/pressure-washing-chemicals-usage-tips-info/
- https://www.cleanprosupply.com/educational-blog/what-kind-of-chemicals-are-used-in-pressure-washing/
- https://pressurewashingresource.com/community/t/what-is-the-mix-ratio-of-sh-for-house-wash/9120
- https://www.dirtkiller.com/blog/dk-pressure-washing-blog-5/chemicals-101-762
- https://www.reddit.com/r/pressurewashing/comments/ttxsu7/best_chemicals_for_beginner_level/