Pressure washing can feel like a miracle tool in the right hands. With the force of water alone, you can strip away years of grime, stains, and buildup from all kinds of surfaces. But before you go turning your washer on everything you own, it’s important to know what can you pressure wash safely and effectively.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the surfaces that can handle the high-powered spray and those that might require a gentler touch.

What We’re Unpacking Below

• Everyday surfaces that benefit from pressure washing
  
• Surprising places you didn’t know you could clean
  
• What to avoid pressure washing (and why)
  
• When to call in a professional
  
• Local insight for Florida homeowners
  

Outdoor Surfaces That Welcome the Pressure

Let’s start with the most common use cases for pressure washing. The hardscapes and structures that surround our homes. These are usually the most forgiving surfaces when it comes to water pressure, and cleaning them can have a big visual impact. Whether it’s removing years of buildup or prepping for sealing or painting, knowing what can you pressure wash outdoors is key.

Driveways and Walkways

Driveways are often the first thing people notice when approaching a home. Over time, they collect everything from motor oil drips and tire marks to embedded dirt, algae, and organic stains. Walkways, especially those shaded by trees, are also prone to becoming slippery due to grime and plant debris. Pressure washing not only restores these surfaces to a brighter, cleaner state, it also removes hazards that could lead to slips or falls.

Concrete and brick are durable materials that can handle a moderate to high-pressure setting. For best results, a surface cleaner attachment can provide even coverage and reduce streaking. If your property has decorative pavers or stamped concrete, a slightly lighter touch is needed to avoid chipping the finish or displacing joint sand.

Patios and Pool Decks

In sunny coastal areas like Vero Beach or Indian River Shores, patios and pool decks are more than just functional, they’re gathering spaces. But being exposed to Florida’s climate means dealing with plenty of sun, moisture, salt air, and sometimes sandy footprints. Algae and mildew can quickly form on porous surfaces, especially near water.

Pressure washing these areas removes the grime that settles into textured surfaces like travertine, cool deck coatings, and concrete pavers. Regular cleanings help maintain a comfortable walking surface and prevent slick spots. If you’re planning to reseal your patio or pool deck, pressure washing beforehand ensures proper adhesion of the new layer.

Just keep in mind that pool decks often require a specific cleaning technique, especially if the surface is coated or painted. Using a high-pressure setting too close to the surface can strip finishes or etch the concrete.

Fences and Gates

Whether wood, vinyl, or metal, fences and gates are often forgotten until they start to discolor. Pressure washing can be a fast, satisfying way to bring back their original look. Wood fences tend to gray and attract dirt over time, while vinyl picks up algae streaks and oxidation. A gentle, fan-spray nozzle with a lower PSI is best for both.

When cleaning wooden fences, work with the grain and avoid getting too close—high pressure can cause splintering or carve into the boards. Treated or sealed wood holds up better under pressure, but even then, it’s smart to test a hidden section before proceeding.

For metal or wrought iron gates, pressure washing can remove flaking paint or rust in preparation for repainting. Just be cautious around weld joints or areas with decorative detailing, as these can be more fragile.

Exterior Walls: Yes, You Can, but With Care

Cleaning your home’s siding is one of the most noticeable upgrades you can make with a pressure washer, but it’s also one of the easiest places to make a mistake. While many exterior wall materials respond well to a wash, technique and pressure level matter a lot.

Vinyl siding is one of the most pressure-washer-friendly materials. It’s tough, non-porous, and often shows dramatic results after cleaning. A low- to medium-pressure setting and a wide spray tip are best to avoid cracking or dislodging panels. Fiber cement siding, often used on newer builds, is also durable, but care should be taken around edges and seams to prevent water intrusion.

Brick and stucco offer a bit more complexity. While brick is generally strong, older mortar joints can be fragile. High pressure can erode the mortar, especially on historic homes. For stucco, it’s all about low pressure and a soft brush to loosen buildup first, then a gentle rinse to finish the job. Avoid any forceful spraying near cracks or around windows.

A key tip: never spray upward into siding seams. Doing so risks forcing water behind the surface, which can lead to internal moisture issues. Instead, work from top to bottom at a slight angle, keeping the wand at a steady distance.

This advice is especially important in coastal Florida regions like Fort Pierce or Florida Ridge, where wind-blown salt, sand, and humidity accelerate buildup on siding. Pressure washing isn’t just about making the house look good, it also protects the structure over time. Regular cleaning can prevent staining and deterioration caused by salt air, pollen, and organic matter.

If your home has delicate finishes, multiple stories, or tight corners, calling in a local pro is usually worth it. For thorough, damage-free house washing in Fort Pierce, trained professionals know how to tackle siding with precision, protecting your home while restoring its appearance.

Roofs: A Special Case

While it might be tempting to treat your roof like any other exterior surface, this is one area where pressure washing requires a more delicate approach. In fact, using a traditional high-pressure method on your roof can do more harm than good, especially if you have asphalt shingles.

Asphalt shingles are coated with protective granules that shield your roof from the sun and weather. When blasted with high-pressure water, those granules can strip away, shortening the life of your roof and potentially voiding any manufacturer warranty. Even tougher materials like tile or metal roofing can suffer damage if washed improperly, tiles can crack or dislodge, and metal panels can bend or loosen at seams.

That’s why professional roof cleaners rely on a method called soft washing. This approach combines low-pressure water with biodegradable cleaning agents that break down the stains, algae, and organic material commonly found on roofs, particularly in humid places like Vero Beach and Florida Ridge. The cleaning solution is applied gently, allowed to dwell, and then rinsed off carefully without blasting the surface.

Soft washing is especially effective at removing black streaks caused by algae (specifically Gloeocapsa magma), a common issue in Florida’s warm, moist environment. It also helps prevent premature aging and keeps your home looking sharp from the street.

Beyond technique, safety is another reason to leave roof cleaning to the pros. Navigating steep or slick surfaces requires proper equipment and experience. A trained team can access hard-to-reach areas without risking injury or property damage.

If you’re unsure about the right method for your roof, or if you see signs of staining or discoloration, it’s best to get an expert opinion. A routine soft wash every few years can extend your roof’s lifespan and reduce the need for costly repairs, all without the risks of high-pressure spraying.

Outdoor Furniture

Patio and garden furniture are exposed to the elements year-round, which means they can collect grime, cobwebs, and algae faster than you might expect. Fortunately, many of these materials handle pressure washing well, as long as you use the proper settings and technique.

Here’s what to know about cleaning different types of outdoor furniture:

• Plastic and Resin Chairs
  
  • Durable and typically the easiest to clean with a pressure washer.
    
  • Use a low to medium setting with a fan spray to avoid surface etching.
    
  • Ideal for removing built-up dirt, bird droppings, or algae.
    
• Metal Furniture (Aluminum, Wrought Iron, Steel)
  
  • Can be pressure washed to remove rust flakes, pollen, or peeling paint.
    
  • Be mindful of chipped paint or corrosion, too much pressure can worsen it.
    
  • Great for prepping furniture before repainting or resealing.
    
• Treated Wood or Composite Materials
  
  • Use a soft pressure setting and keep the nozzle at least 2 feet away to avoid splintering.
    
  • Test an inconspicuous spot first, some finishes may lift if pressure is too high.
    
  • After washing, re-oiling or sealing the wood can help extend its life.
    
• Cushions and Fabric Surfaces
  
  • Avoid direct pressure on upholstered or foam-filled cushions, water can become trapped, leading to odor or degradation.
    
  • Instead, remove and clean fabric separately, or use a soft brush and mild soap.
    
• Furniture Joints and Welds
  
  • Be cautious around connection points or adjustable mechanisms, water can force its way into hinges or weaken glue joints.
    
  • Spray at an angle, not directly into the joints, and let furniture dry thoroughly before use.
    

In general, pressure washing outdoor furniture offers a fast refresh, perfect before guests arrive or at the start of a new season. Just remember to go gently and let the material guide your settings.

Vehicles and Equipment

Pressure washers aren’t limited to patios and siding, they can also be a helpful tool for cleaning a wide range of vehicles and outdoor equipment. With the right technique, you can safely wash cars, motorcycles, bicycles, RVs, boats, trailers, and even yard tools like lawn mowers or wheelbarrows.

When it comes to vehicles with paint or sensitive surfaces, the golden rule is to use low pressure and maintain a safe distance. Standing too close or using a concentrated nozzle can damage clear coats, scratch paint, or strip decals. A wide fan-tip attachment and plenty of water flow will rinse away dirt, pollen, and grime effectively without harming the finish. For stubborn bugs or road tar, a pre-soak with an automotive-safe detergent can loosen debris before rinsing.

Boats and trailers, especially those that are regularly exposed to saltwater, benefit greatly from pressure washing. Salt and sand can accelerate corrosion, particularly around joints, undercarriages, and metal fittings. Regular rinsing with a pressure washer helps extend the life of these items, especially in coastal areas like Sebastian or Vero Beach where salt-laden air is common. Just like with cars, it’s essential to use a gentle setting and pay attention to details like seals, vents, and painted areas.

Even yard tools and equipment, like lawn mowers, garden carts, and pressure washers themselves, can benefit from a rinse. Built-up grass, grease, and dirt are easier to remove with a quick spray, making tools not only cleaner but safer and more efficient to use.

Pressure washing these items isn’t about deep cleaning, it’s about routine upkeep that prevents long-term damage. Done right, it’s a fast and efficient way to keep everything from your car to your kayak looking and performing better.

Surprising Items You Can Pressure Wash

Want to go beyond the basics? Here are a few things people don’t often think to wash with pressure, but absolutely can:

• Garbage bins – Blast away odors and residue.
  
• Kids’ outdoor toys – Plastic swing sets and slides clean up fast.
  
• Garage floors – Oil and dust don’t stand a chance.
  
• Outdoor grills (exterior only) – Removes soot and food buildup.
  
• Lawn statues and planters – Just be careful with paint or finishes.
  

These examples show the wide range of pressure washer uses—it’s not just about the big jobs.

Surfaces to Avoid (or Handle With Caution)

Not everything is pressure-washer friendly. Here’s what to think twice about:

• Glass windows – A strong stream can crack or shatter them.
  
• Electrical panels – Water and electricity never mix.
  
• Old paint – Can chip or strip paint unintentionally.
  
• Soft wood or untreated surfaces – Might absorb water or splinter.
  
• Delicate garden features – Fountains and stone carvings can wear down.
  

If you’re unsure, always start with the lowest pressure and test an inconspicuous spot first, or better yet, consult a professional.

DIY or Call in the Pros?

There’s a big difference between owning a pressure washer and knowing how to use it well. Certain jobs are better handled by trained technicians who know what pressure levels are safe, which detergents work best, and how to protect surfaces from accidental damage.

If you’re researching pressure washing companies in Vero Beach, look for teams that understand the regional climate and its impact on your property. Local pros will know how to handle the salt, sand, and humidity that are unique to the area.

Regional Considerations for Florida Homeowners

The climate in places like Sebastian, Vero Beach, and Florida Ridge brings unique cleaning challenges. Homes near the coast experience faster buildup on roofs and siding. Pool decks see frequent sun and chemical exposure. Paver driveways can develop deep-set stains.

Knowing what can you wash with a pressure washer and how often to clean are crucial for property upkeep. In humid regions, regular cleaning is less about vanity and more about longevity.

Final Thoughts: Know What Can You Pressure Wash

A pressure washer is a powerful tool, but like any tool, it’s only effective when used with the right knowledge. By understanding what can you pressure wash, you can keep your property cleaner, safer, and better protected.

For everything else, from delicate surfaces to multi-story homes, a call to a local professional might be your smartest move.