Preparing Your Commercial Property for Pressure Washing

Maintaining the exterior of a commercial property is essential for making a strong first impression. Over time, buildings, sidewalks, parking lots, and other outdoor spaces can accumulate dirt, grime, mildew, and pollutants that not only affect the property’s appearance but can also lead to long-term damage. Pressure washing is an effective solution for keeping your commercial property clean and presentable. 

A worker pressure washing a commercial building. Proper preparation ensures effective cleaning for your commercial property

However, preparing your property before a pressure washing service can make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get your commercial property ready for pressure washing.

1. Schedule the Service for Off-Peak Hours

The first step in preparing for pressure washing is scheduling the service during off-peak hours. For many businesses, this might mean early mornings, late evenings, or weekends when there’s less foot traffic and fewer disruptions to daily operations. 

Pressure washing can be noisy and may temporarily block entrances or parking areas. By choosing a time that won’t interfere with customers or employees, you ensure minimal inconvenience while still getting the job done.

2. Inform Employees and Tenants

If you manage a commercial property with multiple tenants or a large team of employees, it’s important to communicate the scheduled pressure washing in advance. Send out an email or memo letting everyone know when and where the pressure washing will occur, so they can plan accordingly.

Employees and tenants should be aware of potential temporary restrictions to parking areas, building entrances, or outdoor walkways. This will help reduce confusion and ensure everyone is prepared for any short-term inconveniences during the cleaning process.

3. Remove Obstacles and Clear the Area

Before the pressure washing crew arrives, take the time to clear the areas that will be cleaned. This includes removing any outdoor furniture, signage, planters, trash bins, or vehicles that might obstruct access to walkways, parking lots, or building exteriors.

Not only does this help the pressure washing team work more efficiently, but it also prevents accidental damage to items left in the cleaning zone. Be sure to check for any loose items that could be blown away by the high-pressure water, such as outdoor decorations or unsecured banners.

4. Secure Windows and Doors

Pressure washing uses high-powered water jets that can seep through improperly sealed windows and doors. To prevent water damage to the interior of your building, make sure all windows and doors are tightly closed and properly sealed. 

If there are any cracks or weak seals, consider having them repaired beforehand. This will not only prevent water intrusion but also ensure the cleaning is thorough and won’t cause unnecessary damage to your property.

5. Cover Sensitive Areas and Equipment

If your commercial property has outdoor electrical outlets, HVAC units, lighting fixtures, or security cameras, it’s crucial to protect these areas from water exposure. Water can damage sensitive equipment and lead to costly repairs or replacements. 

Cover any electrical outlets and wiring with waterproof tarps or plastic sheeting to prevent them from getting wet. If necessary, ask the pressure washing company if they provide this service, as many professional companies will offer to cover sensitive areas as part of their preparation process.

6. Identify Problem Areas

Before the pressure washing service begins, walk around your property and identify areas that need extra attention. This could include particularly dirty spots, mould or mildew growth, grease stains, or graffiti. Communicate these areas to the pressure washing crew so they can focus on addressing specific problem spots during the cleaning process.

If your building has delicate materials, such as wood siding or older bricks, let the crew know so they can adjust the pressure settings accordingly. Some surfaces may require lower pressure or a soft-washing technique to avoid damage.

7. Ensure Proper Drainage

Pressure washing uses a lot of water, which means proper drainage is essential to prevent puddling or flooding. Make sure that the areas around your building have adequate drainage systems, such as clear gutters, downspouts, and storm drains. 

Inspect the property for any areas where water may collect or where drainage might be poor. Let the pressure washing company know about these areas in advance so they can manage water runoff effectively.

8. Post Signs for Safety when Preparing Commercial Property for Pressure Washing

Pressure washing involves high-pressure water which can be dangerous if someone walks into the cleaning zone. To ensure the safety of customers, employees, and tenants, post clear signs in the areas where the pressure washing will take place. 

Signs such as “Caution: Pressure Washing in Progress” can alert people to stay clear of certain areas. If you are having the parking lot pressure washed, consider blocking off sections with cones or caution tape to prevent cars from entering the area.

9. Consider Eco-Friendly Options

Many commercial property owners are concerned about the environmental impact of cleaning solutions used during pressure washing. If sustainability is a priority for your business, ask your pressure washing service provider about eco-friendly cleaning products. 

Biodegradable detergents and water-saving techniques can help reduce the environmental footprint of your cleaning project while still delivering excellent results. Many professional pressure washing companies offer green cleaning options as part of their services.

Preparing your commercial property for pressure washing is key to ensuring a smooth, efficient, and safe cleaning process. By scheduling the service during off-peak hours, clearing obstacles, securing sensitive areas, and communicating with employees or tenants, you can minimize disruption and maximize the effectiveness of the cleaning. 

When done properly, pressure washing can enhance the appearance of your property, extend the life of surfaces, and create a cleaner, more welcoming environment for your customers and employees. Ready to give your commercial property a fresh look? Contact a professional pressure washing company today to get started.

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Is your commercial property ready for a fresh, clean look? Contact us today to schedule a professional pressure washing service and ensure your business shines from the outside in!