Considering the instant benefits of this task, you might consider it a simple DIY project. However, even the lightest-duty equipment puts out a dangerous level of pressure. In the hands of the inexperienced, that pressure can cause serious property damage and bodily harm. Operating your washer on the wrong setting, with the wrong cleaning solution or too close to the surface can turn small slip-ups into costly repair projects. Worse, it could send you or a loved one to the hospital with significant injuries.

Pressure washing has many advantages:

■Removes stubborn stains: With a pressure washer, you can clear away baked-in stains and stubborn spills from nearly any outdoor surface. Layers of buildup will disappear, revealing the original beauty, color and potential of your home's exterior.

■Tackles nooks and crannies: A pressure washer can get into difficult spots like cracks, corners, gutters and overhangs.

■Exposes maintenance issues: When done annually, pressure washing can clear areas where you might need to perform further maintenance. It will offer a better view of surface damage and remove grime so that you can stain the backyard deck or seal the garage floor.

While power washing can be viewed as a do-it-yourself project, there is a clear distinction between a DIY crew and professional services. This means you get greater capability of equipment and greater expertise by having trained power washing technicians do it for you.

A do-it-yourself washer may set the pressure too high for the surface or hold the nozzle too close to it. This can result in chipped painting, damaged screens, and ruined siding. And though most power washing equipment you can rent has the same PSI as commercial-grade tools, it holds a minimal amount of water—making this project take days, not hours.

Sealing the driveway incorrectly can lead to unsightly hairline cracks and peeling. And concrete driveways should be sealed periodically to protect them from water penetration and to prolong their life.

Not with the professional technicians at SuperDuper Wash. We know how to properly utilize high pressure washing equipment which has the capability of producing an extremely high pressure output of water. However by examining the type of surface and its condition, our team can set the right amount of water pressure required for the application.