Brick Walls
Soft washing is ideal for cleaning breezeway walls that are made from delicate materials such as brick or stucco. First, use low-pressure water to saturate the surface. Use a soap dispenser to apply the cleaning solution onto the walls. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to loosen up all the dirt, dust, and debris. Then, use a soft washer with 500 PSI to rinse off the solution from the brick walls.
Concrete Floors
Pressure washing is suitable for concrete floors or any type of concrete surface on an apartment breezeway. Use a cleaning detergent to loosen up the dirt, dust, and debris. However, water pressure alone can already effectively clean the concrete surfaces. Use a pressure washer with about 3,000 PSI. Work from top to bottom and left to right for a thorough and systematic cleaning.
Metal Stairs and Railings
Outdoor stairs and railings are typically made from metal or aluminum because they are durable and low-maintenance. However, due to exposure to natural elements, these areas are still prone to dirt, dust, mold, mildew, and rust.
Prior to pressure washing, sweep the area to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris. You can apply a mild cleaning detergent to loosen up the buildup. When pressure washing metal stairs and railings, use about 2,000-,3000 PSI. Adjust the nozzle and water pressure accordingly.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is prone to mold and mildew and water pressure alone may not be enough to kill these harmful organisms. It’s better to use a soft wash system to protect the vinyl siding and ensure that mold and mildew do not grow back.
Use a soap dispenser to spray mold and mildew remover onto the vinyl siding. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for a few minutes. Then, use a soft washer with about 1,000-3,000 PSI. Start with low pressure and increase gradually if needed. Work from top to bottom then left to right to prevent streaking. Never clean from an upward angle as water can seep into the vinyl siding and cause damage.
Windows
For cleaning delicate glass surfaces, use a soft wash system. Prepare the area by covering nearby plants and outdoor fixtures, as well as removing furniture or other items. Apply a window cleaner and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Then, use a soft washer with 500 PSI to rinse off the solution. Go from top to bottom and left to right to prevent streaks.
Roof
If the apartment breezeway has a fabric or asphalt roofing, use a soft wash system with 500-1,000 PSI. Allow the cleaning solution to penetrate the accumulated dirt, dust, and debris rather than risk damage with a high-pressure system. For more durable roofing materials such as metal, use a pressure washer with 1,000-3,000 PSI.