Dirt and grime build-up provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which can spread disease. A good pressure wash also kills vermin, making your home and family safer.
Using a gas or electric motor, a pressure washer pumps water through a specialized nozzle at high speeds. This blast removes accumulated dirt and debris, sprucing up surfaces in a fraction of the time it takes to clean manually.
New Signs to Look Out For
1. Fading Paint or Stains on Surfaces
If you notice that the paint on your exterior walls, deck, or fence is starting to look dull or stained, it could be due to dirt, mildew, or other contaminants building up. Pressure washing can help restore these surfaces by removing the build-up that causes fading and discoloration. If you’re considering repainting your home, pressure washing before applying a fresh coat of paint can ensure better adhesion and a smoother finish.
2. Slippery Walkways and Driveways
When moss, algae, or mold start growing on outdoor surfaces like driveways, walkways, or patios, they can become slippery and pose a safety hazard. If your walkways feel slick when wet or you notice green or black patches, it’s a clear sign that pressure washing is needed. Regular cleaning helps keep these areas safe to walk on and prolongs the life of the surface materials.
Dirty Siding
Dirty siding can make a home look rundown and even be dangerous. It can allow water to get behind the siding, which can cause wood rot and pest infestations. It can also prevent the heating and cooling systems from doing their jobs efficiently, resulting in high energy bills.
Fortunately, dirty siding is easy to fix. A hand-pump garden sprayer and oxygen bleach effectively clean the surface without damaging it. A non-abrasive brush can also be used, especially if there are greasy fingerprints or stains from oil or grease.
Before beginning to clean, taking safety precautions like wearing goggles and gloves to protect the skin from the cleaning solution and using a sturdy ladder for the task at hand is essential. Moving any outdoor furniture, decorations, or plants away from the cleaning area and covering any electrical outlets or light fixtures with plastic sheeting or duct tape is important.
Dirty Gutters
When your gutters are clogged, they can’t do their job of diverting water away from your roof and walls. This can lead to many problems, including mold, mildew, and rot. It can also cause expensive water damage and leaks in your home.
Clogged gutters are usually full of dirt and leaves broken down into wet mush by the rain. This makes an ideal environment for moss, plants, and insects to thrive.
If you see plants or moss growing in your gutters, it’s time to call a pressure washing service provider for help. They can use a powerful hose to blast away the growth and leave your gutters looking like new again. Then, they can thoroughly inspect to ensure the channels are still working properly.
Gutter systems need to be cleaned regularly. When they don’t, organic matter tends to collect in the gutter. This creates a planting mix for weeds and seeds that want to sprout.
Dirty gutters will also lead to the overflow of water from the system. This can cause damage to the fascia, roof, siding and wall of a home.
Another sign it’s time to call a pressure washing service provider is if you notice black streaks on your gutters. This mold and moss will travel onto your roof, under the shingles and into your home if left untreated. This can cause many problems for a home, including rot, pest infestation and mold spores. All of which can be incredibly costly to correct. Clogged gutters are a big problem that can cause serious home damage. They prevent rainwater from draining off your roof and away from your property, leading to foundation problems, wall cracks, mildew, mold and more.
Dirty gutters are also breeding grounds for insects like earwigs, ants, spiders and other creepy crawlies. They love the damp conditions and rotting leaves in your gutter, so they start making their home there.
If you see any clogged gutters, it’s time to call for a cleaning. You can also tell it’s time for a gutter cleaning if your drains start sagging. They’re getting too heavy from the accumulated debris and need to be cleaned out. The sooner this is done, the better.
Dirty Roof
The roof often needs to be addressed when it comes to home exteriors. However, dirt build-up can make your ceiling look dirty and decrease the overall appearance of your home. This can also cause shingle damage. Moss and algae are also problematic as they can damage shingles, creating holes.
A soft-pressure washing system is the best way to clean your roof. It’s important not to use a high-pressure washer as this can damage the surface of your shingles. This will void your shingle warranty.
Getting your roof cleaned regularly can increase the lifespan of your shingles and protect your home’s value. It can also help lower your energy costs by reflecting sunlight rather than absorbing it.
Dirty Windows
If your windows look dirty, it may be time for a cleaning. Dirty windows make your home look unkempt and can affect the curb appeal of your property. Additionally, dirty-looking windows can be a security risk because burglars are likelier to break into homes with dark window panes.
Dirty windows also allow dust mites to thrive, leading to respiratory problems and allergic reactions. It is a good idea to clean your windows at least twice a year to keep them clean.
It’s important to wash your windows inside and out using a squeegee, glass cleaner and a lint-free paper towel or newspaper. Be sure to clean your screens, removing any dirt or debris that has caked on over time.
Dirty Deck
A dirty deck is a major turn-off and is a sign of neglect. Over time, dirt and mildew will build up, causing wood to gray and erode. This is especially a problem with cedar and redwood. If you notice a graying or fading of your deck, it is time to call a professional.
It would help to look for signs of stains that won’t wash away. These are signs that the deck may need to be stripped and stained again. Additionally, it would help if you looked for signs of dry rot, which is a big concern as it will attract insect damage and eventually rot the entire structure. Dry rot is usually caused by water retention or continuous moisture and could result from a plumbing leak, gutter failure, sprinkler system issue, etc.
Pressure Washing for Commercial Properties
1. Enhanced Curb Appeal for Businesses
For commercial properties, the exterior appearance can significantly impact customer perception. If you notice dirty parking lots, greasy stains, or mildew on your building’s façade, it’s time to consider a pressure washing service. Regular cleaning not only boosts the curb appeal of your business but also creates a welcoming environment for clients and customers.
2. Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations
Commercial establishments, especially those in the food or healthcare industries, must adhere to strict health and safety regulations. Pressure washing can help keep entryways, dumpsters, and loading areas clean and sanitized, reducing the risk of accidents and health code violations.
FAQs
The frequency for commercial properties depends on the location, industry, and level of foot traffic. High-traffic areas, such as restaurants or retail shops, may require monthly cleanings, while office buildings might only need a bi-annual wash.
Yes, many service providers offer eco-friendly solutions, including biodegradable cleaning agents and water-saving techniques, making it a sustainable option for commercial cleaning.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, regular pressure washing is a vital part of both residential and commercial property maintenance. By addressing signs such as dirty siding, clogged gutters, slippery surfaces, and faded exteriors, you can protect your property from long-term damage, enhance its appearance, and maintain its value. Don’t wait until problems escalate; reach out to a professional pressure washing service provider to keep your property in top condition year-round.
