Couple questions from the new guy. - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

n4rb · 07-24-2007, 12:35 PM

Hey everybody, just found this forum.

I have a couple of questions, since I am looking into starting my Pressure Washing Business, since there are none in my area.

1) I have yet to figure out ... How do you clean 2 story buildings? If you use a ladder, don't you get water under the vinyl siding (which is bad)?

2) Where is a good place to get insurance from?

3) Engine bays ... what's a good way to clean those? Use a degreaser from the auto parts store, spray it down, let it soak, then rinse off with low pressure (or lowest high pressure), while covering up the alternator, fuse box, and distributor? Leave engine running?

I might have many more questions to go, but I would appreciate yalls input

carolinaprowash · 07-24-2007, 03:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by n4rb

Hey everybody, just found this forum.

I have a couple of questions, since I am looking into starting my Pressure Washing Business, since there are none in my area.

1) I have yet to figure out ... How do you clean 2 story buildings? If you use a ladder, don't you get water under the vinyl siding (which is bad)?

Learn to downstream or use an x-jet. Ladders and pressure washing should not be used in the same sentence

Extensions are another valuable tool. If you're doing it properly and with LOW pressure, water won't be forced under the siding (which is bad, yes)

2) Where is a good place to get insurance from?

Joe Walters Insurance....You can find his contact information at www.uamcc.org

3) Engine bays ... what's a good way to clean those? Use a degreaser from the auto parts store, spray it down, let it soak, then rinse off with low pressure (or lowest high pressure), while covering up the alternator, fuse box, and distributor? Leave engine running?

We do wood, not greasy stuff - one of the others is going to have to answer this one

I might have many more questions to go, but I would appreciate yalls input

Do lots of research before you jump into pw'ing with both feet - or any other trade for that matter. It only takes one screw up to kill your reputation and it does plenty bad for the industry as well.

Celeste

tom connelly · 01-27-2008, 04:41 PM

How to clean 2 story houses without ladders?

x-jet and downstream, also get to know your chemical line very well. Let the detergents do the work so you dont have to. They should be your best workers. If you get them all workin together you can kiss your ladders good bye. A light weight long lance will also make a huge difference. Make sure you use low pressure, high pressure will also force water under your vinyl. You wont learn it all overnight thats for sure.

Gutter Clean & Power Wash
Hickory NC

A W Smith · 01-27-2008, 05:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by n4rb

3) Engine bays ... what's a good way to clean those? Use a degreaser from the auto parts store, spray it down, let it soak, then rinse off with low pressure (or lowest high pressure), while covering up the alternator, fuse box, and distributor? Leave engine running?

Warm the engine to operating temperature. Shut it off. Use an entire can or two of gunk engine brite. Wait fifteen minutes but before the engine cools completely off. Wash off with a garden hose avoiding the ignition system.