Summer Pressure Washing Tips: How to Get the Best Results in the Heat

Published:

09/03/2025

Summer in Texas means backyard BBQs, pool parties, and long evenings outside—but it also means dust, pollen, mold, and grime building up on your home's exterior surfaces. There’s no better time than now to break out the pressure washer and give your property a fresh, clean look. But before you fire it up, here are some essential tips for pressure washing during the summer—whether you’re a DIYer or thinking about calling in the pros at Nortex.


Pressure Washer Trigger Gun QC

7 Tips For Pressure Washing During Summer

1. Start Early (or Late) to Beat the Heat

Texas summer afternoons can be scorching. Pressure washing in the midday sun not only puts you at risk for heat exhaustion but also makes the job harder. Water can evaporate quickly on hot surfaces, leaving streaks or soap residue behind.


Tip: Aim to pressure wash in the early morning or late evening, when surfaces are cooler and the sun is less intense.


2. Use the Right Pressure Settings

High pressure isn’t always better—especially in the summer. Heat can make some materials more susceptible to damage, particularly softer surfaces like wood, siding, or painted areas.


Tip: Use a lower PSI setting for delicate surfaces, or consider soft washing (a gentler, chemical-based cleaning method) for areas like:


Roof shingles

Siding

Fences

Decks

3. Pre-Soak Surfaces

When surfaces are extremely hot, detergent and water can dry too quickly, reducing their effectiveness. Pre-soaking helps cool the surface and allows cleaning solutions to work more effectively.


Tip: Lightly spray surfaces with water before applying detergent or pressure to reduce temperature and prep for cleaning.

4. Mind the Wind and Sun

Summer winds in North Texas can blow cleaning solutions where you don’t want them, including onto plants, cars, or neighboring properties. Sunlight can also cause quick drying, leading to spots or uneven cleaning.


Tip: Be strategic—work in shaded areas first and pay attention to wind direction. Cover nearby plants or surfaces with plastic sheeting or tarps to prevent overspray.

5. Use Summer-Safe Detergents

Not all cleaning solutions are made for hot weather. Some chemicals can evaporate quickly or become more potent in heat, posing a risk to plants, pets, or paint.


Tip: Choose biodegradable, non-toxic cleaners designed for summer use, or ask a professional about the best products for your home.

At Nortex, we use eco-friendly detergents that are tough on grime but safe for your family and landscaping.

6. Don't Forget Safety Gear

Heat and water don’t mix well without proper safety gear. Summer heat can lead to slippery surfaces, steam from hot water, or dehydration.


Tip: Wear:

Non-slip shoes

Safety goggles

Lightweight, breathable clothing

Sunscreen

A hat or cooling towel


And always stay hydrated!

7. Consider Hiring a Pro for Bigger Jobs

Sometimes, the best summer cleaning tip is knowing when not to do it yourself. High ladders, fragile surfaces, and high temperatures can make pressure washing risky.


Tip: Let the pros handle it. At Nortex Softwash & Pressure Washing, we specialize in:


House washing

Driveways and patios

Roof and gutter cleaning

Fence and deck restoration


We use the right techniques for each surface—and we get it done safely, efficiently, and affordably.

Final Thoughts

Summer is the perfect time to revitalize your property, but heat brings unique challenges to pressure washing. With a little planning—and the right help—you can make your home shine safely and beautifully.

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