Your home is exposed to rain, dust, wind, pollen, and moisture every day. As time passes, these elements can cause stains and discoloration on your home’s outside surfaces. Algae and mold can grow on wet surfaces. Some surfaces become slippery and dangerous when wet. The best way to clean these surfaces is with a high-powered pressure washer. This machine will strip away months and years of dirt and grime to restore a cleaner, brighter appearance to your home’s exterior. In addition to making things look nicer, pressure washing can also help preserve the surfaces by removing damaging debris. It can make your home safer as well as more desirable to potential buyers.
What Surfaces Can Be Cleaned?
Most outside surfaces can be cleaned with this type of high-powered cleaning. The amount of pressure needed will vary by surface.
- Concrete driveway
- Sidewalks and walkways
- Brick patios
- Stone paths
- Vinyl siding
- Wood and composite decks
- Fences
- Garage floors
- Outside furniture
For example, a concrete driveway that has been stained and discolored by years of use will lighten considerably after being pressure washed.
Know the Difference Between High and Low-Pressure Cleaning
It’s important to know the difference between high and low-pressure cleaning. Hard surfaces such as concrete can tolerate higher pressure than softer surfaces can. Painted wood, older brick, and shingles can be easily damaged as well. Many professional cleaners will use a number of different nozzles to apply just the right amount of water pressure for the job. Other surfaces require a gentler approach that uses cleaning solutions to remove mold and algae. It’s actually more important to use the right technique than it is to use the highest pressure available.
When Is the Best Time to Clean?
Weather is an important factor when it comes to pressure cleaning. A dry day with comfortable temperatures is the best time to clean outside surfaces. Extremely hot weather can actually be detrimental to the cleaning process as well. Rain can also interfere with the cleaning process. Most people choose to have their surfaces cleaned once a year. If your home is surrounded by trees or is in a particularly damp area, you may need to have the cleaning done more often. It’s also a good idea to have your surfaces cleaned in preparation for seasonal events or for an annual home inspection.
Common Stains and What They Mean
Outside surfaces tend to collect a number of different types of stains.
- Black streaks
- Green algae
- Mildew on wood or vinyl siding
- Oil stains
- Rust spots
- Mud and dirt
These are just a few of the common outdoor stains. Each requires a slightly different cleaning solution to remove.
Mold and Black Streaks
Mold grows on damp surfaces and can cause unsightly black streaks to appear on surfaces that have been exposed to moisture.
Algae Growth
Algae also tends to grow on damp or shady surfaces. This type of staining can be particularly slippery when the surface gets wet.
Mildew on Siding
Stains on wood or vinyl siding are often caused by mildew.
Oil, Rust, and Dirt Stains
Oil stains are common on driveways. Rust spots often appear on metal furniture. Mud and dirt can be the result of heavy rains.
How to Prepare for the Cleaning Process
Proper preparation can make the cleaning process go much smoother. Move any vehicles, lawn furniture, or large objects away from the work area as much as possible. Close all windows and doors. Turn off any outside electrical outlets if necessary. Remove any loose objects that could potentially interfere with the cleaning process. It’s also a good idea to inspect the surface for any cracks in the concrete, rotting wood, or missing mortar between bricks. Pressure washing can cause further damage to damaged surfaces. Choosing the correct nozzle is also an important part of the preparation process. A wider fan setting will give you more control than a narrow fan will.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
It’s best to clean outside surfaces in smaller sections. It’s also a good idea to keep the nozzle moving. Leaving the nozzle in one place for too long can cause unsightly watermarks or damage the surface. You should always start with the lowest pressure setting and work your way up if necessary. It’s also a good idea to test a small, less noticeable area before cleaning the entire surface. The nozzle should always be kept at the same distance from the surface. This has to do with maintaining a consistent water pressure. If you overlap the sections you’ve already cleaned, you can avoid leaving light and dark streaks that ruin the appearance of many surfaces. Wait until the surface has had a chance to dry completely before deciding whether or not additional cleaning is necessary.
Surfaces That Require Extra Care
It’s important to remember that not all surfaces are created equal. Some surfaces that should be cleaned with extra caution include wood decks, painted surfaces, and older brick. Windows and glass can also be easily damaged by pressure washing. Roofs also require extra care. It’s always best to use a gentler cleaning solution when it comes to these surfaces. It’s important to keep in mind that these surfaces will react differently to the pressure washing process. Using the right technique for the surface you’re cleaning will yield better results than using the same technique on all surfaces.
Should You Rent or Hire a Professional?
This is a very common question. The answer will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the job as well as the complexity of the task. Renting the necessary equipment is a good option if you have a small job or if you know what you’re doing. A professional cleaner may be a better option if you have a large home or if you have a lot of surfaces to clean. Professionals will also know the right amount of pressure to apply based on the surface. They will also have the right equipment for the job. You should also consider the value of your time. Renting the equipment can sometimes be more expensive than hiring a professional cleaner, especially if you have to rent the equipment for a longer period of time.
How to Keep Surfaces Clean for Longer
It’s also important to do your part to keep the surfaces clean. Remove standing water whenever possible. Trim back any plants that are blocking sunlight. Sweep patios and decks to remove leaves that can hold moisture. Clean gutters so that water can flow freely. Taking these steps will help keep mold and algae from growing on or around these surfaces. It’s also important to check on these surfaces periodically. Instead of waiting until things get out of control, take a look at the surfaces every few months to see if any maintenance is necessary.
Know When It’s Time to Clean Again
You don’t always have to wait for a specific time to clean. It’s a good idea to pay attention to the signs that indicate that cleaning is necessary. Look for dirty spots, uneven coloration, and slippery areas. You should also watch for dark streaks on siding. These problems tend to creep up on you, so it’s a good idea to inspect your home’s outside surfaces on a regular basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should You Clean Outside Surfaces?
Most homeowners find that having their surfaces cleaned on an annual basis is a good idea. If your home is located in a damp or shady area, you may need to have them cleaned more often.
Can All Surfaces Be Pressure Washed?
Not all surfaces can tolerate the same amount of pressure. Some surfaces require a gentler touch.
Does Cleaning Help Prevent Mold Growth or Just Remove it?
Cleaning will remove existing mold, but it won’t prevent it from growing in the future.
