How to Pressure Wash a House With Vinyl Siding

Learning how to pressure wash a house with vinyl siding is one of those tasks that sounds easy — until you realize there’s a lot that can go wrong. 

Lucky for us, my colleague’s dad, who has years of experience with pressure washers, shared some game-changing tips to help you get it done safely and without a hitch. 

This guide walks you through everything, from preparing your equipment and setting up your work area to pressure washing like a pro and avoiding common mistakes. 

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Equipment

Before diving in, make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need the following:

• Pressure washer
• Spray tips. You can choose from:
  • A 25-degree spray tip (green nozzle) for tackling tough grime
  • A 40-degree tip (white nozzle) for gentler cleaning or when working closer to the surface
  • Optional: Soap or detergent tip (black nozzle) for pre-treating stains
• Garden hose
• Protective coverings (like a tarp for plants)
• Safety gear like gloves, goggles, and closed-toe shoes
• Optional: Cleaning solution for pre-treating stains. You can choose from:
  • Bleach
  • Diluted vinegar solution
  • Other vinyl-safe cleaners
• Optional: Pressure washer-friendly detergent – While water alone can handle light dirt and grime, soap is helpful for tackling stubborn buildup like mold or mildew if you didn’t pre-treat.

Having everything ready will save you time and make the process smoother.

Thinking about buying your own pressure washer? Here’s some advice from my colleague Sarah’s dad, a pressure washer user for years:

• Gas vs. electric models:
  • Electric models are quieter, lighter, and great for light-duty tasks like cleaning decks or siding. They’re also easier to maintain since they don’t use gas or oil.
  • Gas models are more powerful and durable but tend to be heavier, louder, and better suited for tougher jobs.
• Many models (gas and electric) come with built-in soap canisters or a detergent hose for convenience.
• Always check the manual for overwintering your pump and gas. If the pump won’t be used for a while, drain the gas or add a stabilizer.

See Related:

— The Benefits of Pressure Washing
— Power Washing vs. Pressure Washing

Step 2: Get Your Home and Work Area Ready

Before you start blasting away the grime, take a few minutes to prep your home and work area. It’ll make the process smoother and help protect your siding and surroundings.

Check Your Siding

Take a walk around your home and look for any cracks or loose spots. These need to be fixed before cleaning, or you can skip them during pressure washing to avoid making things worse.

Protect What’s Nearby

Move outdoor furniture out of the way, and cover any plants with a tarp to keep them safe from water and debris. Don’t forget to cover electrical outlets or wires with waterproof tape or plastic to keep them dry.

Step 3: Pre-Treat Stubborn Stains (Optional)

Spotted mold, mildew, or tough stains? You can pre-treat them before pressure washing to make the process smoother. Here’s how:

Mix Your Solution

You can mix 1 part bleach with 10 parts water. But if you prefer a gentler approach, try these safer alternatives:

• A diluted vinegar solution (70% water, 30% vinegar)
• A vinyl siding-safe cleaner recommended by the manufacturer

Apply to Problem Areas

• Grab a spray bottle or garden sprayer and coat the trouble spots thoroughly. Work from the bottom up: Start at the bottom of your siding and spray the solution upward. This helps prevent streaking and gives you better control over the cleaning process. 

Exception: If you’re using a vinegar solution or a store-bought pressure washer cleaner, you can use your pressure washer itself to apply the solution. Be sure not to let the solution dry on the siding while you work.

Let it Sit

• Give the solution 5 to 10 minutes to do its job, breaking down the grime and buildup.

Important: A word from Sarah’s dad, “Be sure your siding will tolerate that cleaner without fading or damaging the color.”

Step 4: Pressure Wash Like a Pro

Pressure washing vinyl siding requires the right settings and careful technique to avoid damage. Here’s how to keep things safe and effective:

• Start low: Set your washer to 1,300 to 1,600 PSI with a 25- or 40-degree spray tip. Test a small, out-of-sight corner first to see how it handles. During this rinsing phrase, you need to work from the top down, as opposed to from the bottom up (as you did in the last step).
• Adjust pressure carefully: Gradually increase if needed for tough grime, but don’t exceed 2,000 PSI on thinner or lower-quality siding. For more rugged surfaces or sturdier vinyl, you can safely go up to 3,000 PSI, but always start low and test before increasing.
• ​​Use wider tips for softer cleaning: If your washer doesn’t allow pressure adjustments, use a 40-degree or soap nozzle for a gentler clean, as wider spray patterns reduce pressure. A low-pressure specialty tip is another great option. As Sarah’s dad wisely points out, “If the nozzle is too focused, it can damage surfaces and paint.”

• Work in sections: Tackle 2- to 3-foot-wide sections at a time to stay organized and avoid missing spots.
• Angle it right: Always spray straight or slightly downward to keep water from sneaking behind the siding. Spraying upward is a big no-no as it can lead to moisture problems.
• Use smooth motions: Move the nozzle in steady, sweeping strokes to prevent streaks or uneven cleaning.
• Keep your distance: Stand back and stay at least 3 feet from the surface as you spray. Only move closer if necessary. If the siding starts to budge, you’re either too close or using too much pressure. 

Step 5: Do a Final Check

Take a quick look for streaks and if you spot any, just go over those areas again. Let the siding air-dry for a safe and clean finish.

Here’s a helpful video to guide you through pressure washing your vinyl siding the right way: 

Safety First: Dangers of Pressure Washing Vinyl Siding

While pressure washing can restore the shine of your vinyl siding, it’s not without risks. A few missteps can lead to injuries, property damage, or costly repairs. Here’s what to watch out for, including tips from Sarah’s dad:

• Serious injuries from high-pressure water: The force of a pressure washer can cut skin or cause severe injuries. Always keep the nozzle pointed away from yourself, others, and pets.
• Falls from using a ladder: The force from a pressure washer is also dangerous if you’re using a ladder. “It has a kickback that can throw you off the ladder,” warns Sarah’s dad. You can use an extension wand instead to safely clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Pump damage from no water flow: Running a gas-powered washer without water can burn out the pump. Always connect the water supply and turn it on before starting the machine.
• Burns from overheating hoses: Hoses near the muffler on gas-powered machines can melt or cause burns. Be mindful of placement during operation.
• Injuries from lack of protective gear: Without ear and eye protection, gloves, and sturdy shoes, you risk injury. “A focused stream of water can be very dangerous if it hits you,” advises Sarah’s dad.
• Damage from incorrect nozzles: Using a nozzle with too much pressure can crack or dislodge vinyl siding. A wider spray angle, like 25 or 40 degrees, is safer and more effective for cleaning.
• Fire risks from refueling hot equipment: Adding gas to a hot pressure washer can cause spills or fires. Always let the machine cool down before refueling.
• Water seepage from over-spraying: Holding the nozzle on one spot too long can damage vinyl and allow water to seep behind the siding, potentially causing mold or structural issues.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro 

When it comes to pressure washing your vinyl siding, you might wonder whether to tackle the job yourself or call in the pros. Here’s what you should know to make the best decision:

Going DIY 

If you already own a pressure washer and are comfortable handling it, a DIY approach might seem cost-effective. 

However, you’ll need to invest time in prepping the area, choosing the right cleaning solution, and mastering the settings. Even then, risks like water damage, personal injury, or siding damage can outweigh the savings.

Why Hiring a Pro is the Smarter Option

For a hassle-free and safe cleaning experience, hiring a professional is often the better choice. Here’s why:

• Experience matters: Professionals know how to adjust pressure settings, angles, and nozzles to clean effectively without harming your siding.
• Saves time: Instead of spending hours figuring out the process, let the pros handle it while you enjoy your free time or weekend.
• Proper equipment: Pros use high-quality pressure washers and cleaning solutions designed for tough grime to clean your home effectively and safely.
• Safety first: Avoid risky tasks like climbing ladders or dealing with high-pressure spray. Pros are trained to handle these machines safely.
• Insurance and peace of mind: If something goes wrong, a reputable professional will have insurance to cover damages — a safety net you won’t have if you DIY.

See Related: How Much Does Pressure Washing Cost?

Keep It Clean, Keep It Safe

Pressure washing your vinyl siding is a surefire way to boost your home’s curb appeal, but it takes some care to do it right. From prepping your work area to pre-treating stains and pressure washing like a pro, every step matters. Remember to avoid common pitfalls like using the wrong nozzle or skipping protective gear as those mistakes can spell disaster for your siding or your safety. 

See Related:

— How Much Does It Cost to Pressure Wash a Driveway?
— The Benefits of Power Washing

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Main Image Credit: Vipada / Adobe Stock

Aly Narvaez

Aly is a writer with a DIY obsession and a mission to make her home both fabulous and feline-friendly. She’s constantly cooking up new ideas to infuse her space with personality while outsmarting her cat’s latest antics. For Aly, home projects are less about perfection and more about creating a cozy, creative nest that’s as stylish as it is cat-proof.

Posts by Aly Narvaez