Have you noticed dirt, grime or other contaminants building up on your home’s siding? It’s probably time to call a professional to clean your exterior.
Understanding the best methods for cleaning each type of siding can help you make the right decision when choosing a power washing company. Our exterior power washing guide includes everything you need to know, including some key considerations for safe cleaning.
1. Power Washing Wood
Soft washing with mild cleansers is the best technique for cleaning wood siding. Traditional pressure washing is often too aggressive for wood, which will hold on to excess moisture.
Wood is naturally absorbent, and water trapped in its pores provides an attractive environment for mold and mildew. Its texture also attracts airborne particles like dirt and pollen.
If you want to safely clean your wood siding, trusting an experienced professional to handle the task for you is the best choice. They know the right cleansers and techniques for washing wood houses, saving homeowners time, money and effort.
2. Power Washing Brick
Washing brick exteriors can be tricky without the right materials. Brick and mortar are porous, and these materials become weaker over time.
Using too much pressure can create cracks in the exterior, which can potentially lead to more serious issues. To keep your brick in good condition, use soft washing techniques over traditional pressure washing for any brick parts of your home.
Either way, it’s a good idea to patch up any mortar cracks at least one week before your scheduled washing appointment for extra reinforcement. Your technician will allow the cleanser to soak into the brick to remove impurities before rinsing it off with a safe pressure stream for best results.
3. Power Washing Stone
Natural stone is especially prone to stains and contaminants, such as moss growth, which can lower your home’s curb appeal.
Some tips for cleaning natural stone siding include:
- Use an appropriate pressure: High pressures can damage stone by removing its patina as well as any coatings and sealants. Instead, soft washing with a safe water pressure will provide good results without affecting the surface of your stone.
- Use neutral cleansers: Acidic and highly alkaline compounds like bleach can cause etching on stone, so it’s important to use a milder cleaning agent.
Scheduling a professional power washing appointment with a company that specializes in soft washing will help you get beautiful results without impacting your stone.
4. Power Washing Concrete
Concrete is made from a mixture of cement, water and a loose aggregate such as stone and sand. Like brick, concrete is a porous material that’s especially susceptible to grime and bacteria buildup.
Washing young concrete — any surface less than three years old — with a surface cleaner can cause etching and pitting. Instead, it’s recommended to use soft washing techniques with a mild cleanser and low-pressure jets. This combination will prevent damage and leave behind a fresh, clean surface.
5. Power Washing Vinyl Siding
If you notice green, gray or black stains on your home’s vinyl siding, it’s due for a cleaning. However, pressure washing vinyl is risky because high pressures can warp the material or cause cracks in the panels.
Using safe pressure and nonabrasive cleaners is key. Abrasive cleaners can scratch the vinyl and leave unsightly marks, so nonabrasive eco-friendly products will be safer for your home.
It’s also best to clean vinyl siding on a mild day when the sun is out. The warmth of the sun will dry the excess moisture from the vinyl, preventing it from building up inside and creating a thriving environment for mold and mildew.
6. Power Washing Stucco
Stucco is a popular choice for home exteriors because it’s aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly. However, dirt and grime can build up in its textured surface and impact the appearance of your home.
Power washing stucco is simple with safe pressures and gentle cleansers. Like with brick, you’ll want to inspect your stucco surface for cracks and seal up any gaps you find before your power washing appointment. This step is easy to do with exterior acrylic caulk.
Safety Considerations for Power Washing
Whether soft washing or pressure washing, safety is a critical consideration. Since power washing can be an intensive, complex job, many homeowners choose to hire an expert to get the work done for them. Whether you’re considering power washing your home yourself or want to work with an experienced team, here are some important safety tips:
- Wait for the right season: Winter weather introduces extra risks, such as ice, which can make power washing unsafe. For the best and safest results, only power wash when the weather is clear. Working with a power washing company can help you schedule the job correctly and avoid weather issues.
- Use eco-friendly cleaning agents: Choosing safe cleaning products is better for protecting both the environment and your health. If you hire a professional, look for a company that uses safe and biodegradable cleaning agents.
- Hire a professional: Instead of attempting to complete the job yourself, consider hiring a local professional to power wash exterior surfaces for you. Experienced power washers know all the safety measures to take to protect themselves while working, so you can count on them to seamlessly deliver excellent service.
- Eliminate obstructions: Make sure the area surrounding the worksite is free of obstacles and hazards, such as lawn furniture, that could get in your or your technician’s way.
- Use protective gear: Personal protective equipment (PPE) protects your skin and eyes from coming into contact with cleansers and contaminants, which is essential for avoiding injuries. Professional power washing companies have this equipment on hand, which can save you money by eliminating the need for you to buy it yourself.
Keep Your Home Looking Clean With Perfect Power Wash
Whether your exterior is made from wood, vinyl, stone or stucco, Perfect Power Wash house wash services are what you need to make your home look like new again. Our experienced technicians use safe pressures, eco-friendly cleansers and soft wash techniques to efficiently remove mildew, dirt, grime and more on any surface.
If you’re looking for an expert team to power wash your home, schedule an appointment with Perfect Power Wash. Contact us online or give us a call at 888-860-WASH to request a free quote. We guarantee to deliver the best results possible for your property using our safe and effective processes, or your money back!
