According to a recent USA Today report, 52% of Americans plan on doing some type of home renovation this year and spending a good deal of time on the exterior. It’s important to take care of your siding and roof as well as getting house washing done. House washing is just some common sense maintenance that protects your investment and can also enhance your property’s curb appeal. In this brief guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about house washing.
Why House Washing Matters
Over time, it’s sad but true, that your home’s exterior accumulates dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and algae. Unfortunately, these conditions can make your house look unkempt and can also cause long-term damage to your siding, roof, and foundation. Regular house washing prevents this buildup, extends the life of your exterior surfaces, and maintains your home’s appearance.
Choosing the Right Method
There are two primary methods for house washing: pressure washing and soft washing.
- Pressure Washing: This method uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt and grime. It’s effective for durable surfaces like concrete driveways and some types of siding.
- Soft Washing: This gentler approach uses low-pressure water combined with specialized cleaning solutions. It’s ideal for more delicate surfaces like vinyl siding, stucco, and wood.
The choice between these methods depends on your home’s exterior material and the level of dirt accumulation. A professional can assess your needs and recommend the best approach.
DIY vs. Professional Services
While some homeowners opt for DIY house washing, hiring a professional service offers several advantages:
- Expertise: Professionals know which cleaning methods and solutions work best for different surfaces and stains.
- Safety: House washing often involves working at heights and handling powerful equipment. Professionals have the necessary safety gear and experience.
- Efficiency: With their specialized equipment and techniques, professionals can clean your home more quickly and thoroughly.
- Preventing Damage: Improper pressure washing can damage your siding or force water into your home. Professionals know how to avoid these risks.
The House Washing Process
A typical professional house washing service involves the following steps:
- Inspection: The team assesses your home’s exterior and identifies problem areas.
- Preparation: They cover delicate plants and outdoor fixtures to protect them from cleaning solutions.
- Pre-treatment: Stubborn stains or mold-prone areas are treated with specialized solutions.
- Washing: Using the appropriate method (pressure or soft washing), they clean the entire exterior.
- Rinsing: A thorough rinse removes all cleaning solutions and loosened dirt.
- Post-inspection: The team checks their work and addresses any remaining issues.
Maintaining Your Home’s Exterior
To keep your home looking its best between professional cleanings:
- Regularly remove debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Trim trees and bushes away from your home to reduce moisture and debris accumulation.
- Address any water drainage issues around your foundation.
- Schedule professional house washing every 1-2 years, or more frequently in humid climates.
House washing is an important part of home maintenance that goes beyond mere cleanliness. By understanding the process and enlisting professional help when needed, you can keep your home’s exterior in top condition for years to come.
If you would like to know about our house washing services, please reach out today.
