How To: Remove Exterior Paint with a Pressure Washer

Use a pressure washer to make speedy work of an otherwise taxing, tedious, and time-consuming task.

By Bob Vila | Updated Feb 7, 2018 12:45 PM

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Before you repaint your house, you have to remove all loose and peeling paint. A pressure washer makes the job go faster, and you can do it yourself. Use a minimum 15-degree spray nozzle, with even strokes, 18 to 24 inches from the surface to avoid damaging the wood. For especially difficult areas, you can use a zero-degree nozzle but to get the hang of it, practice first on an out-of-the-way place. Allow your siding to dry at least 24 hours before repainting.

For more on siding, consider:

Bob Vila’s Guide to Exterior Siding
Powering Washing the Home Exterior (VIDEO)
Siding Roundup: 8 Options to Beautify Your Home