Mold Armor is a powerful cleaning solution designed to remove mold, mildew, and algae from outdoor surfaces like siding, decks, fences, and concrete. Using it with a pressure washer can make cleaning large areas easier and more effective. I’ve used Mold Armor with a pressure washer to clean tough outdoor stains, and when done correctly, it can leave your surfaces looking like new.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using Mold Armor with your pressure washer.
1. Choose the Right Mold Armor Product
Mold Armor offers a few different products, but the most common for pressure washing is the Mold Armor E-Z House Wash. This product is specially formulated to be used with pressure washers and is safe for a variety of surfaces, including:
- Vinyl siding
- Wood
- Brick
- Stucco
- Concrete
Tip: Always read the product label to ensure it’s safe for the surface you intend to clean.
2. Dilute the Mold Armor (If Necessary)
Most Mold Armor products used with pressure washers are pre-mixed, meaning they don’t need dilution. However, always double-check the instructions on the bottle. If you do need to dilute, follow the manufacturer’s dilution ratio, which is often 1 part Mold Armor to 3 parts water.
3. Set Up Your Pressure Washer
To use Mold Armor with your pressure washer, follow these steps:
A. Fill the Detergent Tank
Many pressure washers have a built-in detergent tank where you can pour the Mold Armor solution. If your machine has one, do the following:
- Open the Detergent Tank: Pour the Mold Armor solution directly into the tank. If your machine doesn’t have a detergent tank, you may need to use a siphon tube that can be inserted directly into the Mold Armor bottle.
B. Attach the Low-Pressure Soap Nozzle
For applying detergents like Mold Armor, use the black soap nozzle that comes with your pressure washer. This nozzle is designed for low-pressure application, which is essential when using cleaning solutions.
- Remove the high-pressure nozzle and attach the black soap nozzle.
4. Apply Mold Armor
Once the pressure washer is set up, it’s time to apply the Mold Armor solution:
- Start Spraying: Begin by spraying the surface you want to clean. Start at the bottom and work your way up to prevent streaking. Apply the solution evenly across the surface.
- Let It Sit: After applying Mold Armor, let it sit on the surface for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the cleaner to break down mold, mildew, and grime.
Important: Don’t let the solution dry on the surface, as this can cause streaking or leave a residue. Reapply water if needed to keep the surface wet during the waiting period.
5. Switch to a High-Pressure Nozzle for Rinsing
After the Mold Armor has had time to work, it’s time to rinse it off using high pressure:
- Attach a High-Pressure Nozzle: Remove the black soap nozzle and switch to a higher-pressure nozzle, like the 25-degree (green) or 40-degree (white) nozzle, for a wider spray that’s still powerful enough to clean effectively.
- Rinse the Surface: Start at the top and work your way down, rinsing off all the detergent and grime. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving any residue.
6. Safety Tips When Using Mold Armor
- Wear Protective Gear: Mold Armor is a strong cleaner, so always wear gloves, goggles, and long sleeves to protect yourself from splashes.
- Avoid Direct Contact with Plants: Mold Armor can harm plants, so make sure to cover or spray down nearby vegetation with water before and after using the cleaner to prevent any damage.
- Test in a Small Area: Before cleaning large sections, test the Mold Armor on a small, hidden area to ensure it won’t discolor or damage the surface.
7. Post-Cleaning Maintenance
- Clean the Detergent System: After you’re finished, it’s important to flush out any remaining Mold Armor from your pressure washer’s detergent system. Run clean water through the pressure washer for a few minutes to clear out any detergent from the lines.
- Rinse the Plants and Lawn: If you sprayed near plants, rinse them thoroughly with clean water to wash off any residue from the Mold Armor solution.
Conclusion
Using Mold Armor with a pressure washer is an effective way to remove mold, mildew, and algae from outdoor surfaces. By following these steps—setting up your pressure washer, using the right nozzle, and applying and rinsing the solution properly—you’ll achieve a thorough cleaning with minimal effort. Always remember to take safety precautions and flush your system afterward to keep your equipment in top condition!