Professional-quality pressure washing cleans your home’s exterior surfaces, removing dirt, mold, mildew, grease, stains, and other contaminants.
As a homeowner, you know regular pressure washing is essential to maintain your home and protect your investment. But how often should it be done? Discover how frequently you should power wash your home and the signs that indicate it’s time for a cleaning.
Factors That Determine How Often to Pressure Wash
While all homes benefit from regular pressure washing, how often you should schedule it depends on several key factors, such as local climate and weather conditions. Here’s how these factors influence your cleaning schedule.
Climate and Weather Conditions
The local climate determines how often you should request a professional house wash. On average, most homes need a power wash once a year.
However, if your property is located in a harsh or humid climate, you may need to schedule more frequent pressure washing. Humid environments promote mold and mildew, while dry areas may accumulate dust faster. If your home falls into either category, contact a professional washing company and schedule at least two washes yearly.
Location
Properties near construction sites or busy roads tend to accumulate dirt and grime more quickly, while those surrounded by trees may experience buildups of organic debris, such as sap, leaves, twigs, or pine needles.
If your house is in a high-traffic area or close to ongoing construction, you may need to power wash your home more often. Consider scheduling an additional washing service each year to keep your exterior surfaces spotless.
Exterior Material
Each building material has its own maintenance and cleaning requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial to maintaining your home’s exterior. Knowing the specific needs of your home’s surfaces will help you schedule cleanings at the right intervals, ensuring both cleanliness and longevity.
Vinyl siding. This material is known for its relative durability. It can withstand more frequent washing and can be safely power-washed once every year.
Wood siding. Wood is more delicate than vinyl and requires more frequent cleaning but gentler techniques and equipment like soft pressure washers. Typically, wood siding needs pressure washing about twice a year, mainly to protect it from mold and mildew.
Brick and stucco. Although these materials are more durable than vinyl, their porous nature makes them prone to damage if overwashed. A pressure wash every three to five years should be enough to keep them in good condition.
Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions such as proximity to the coast, pollution levels, bad weather, and surrounding vegetation can affect how quickly your home accumulates dirt and grime. Coastal homes, for example, may require more frequent washing due to salt air exposure.
Urban homes are exposed to higher pollution and contaminants like exhaust fumes, oil residues, and industrial soot. To keep your exterior clean, consider scheduling at least two pressure washing services a year.
Season
Each season brings unique challenges to your home’s exterior. Understanding these can help you plan a more effective pressure washing schedule.
Spring. Many homeowners power wash their houses in early spring to clean grime, pollen, and salt residue before the warmer months.
Summer. Summer’s warm, humid conditions can promote mold and mildew growth, especially in shaded areas. A midsummer soft washing can help combat these issues and keep your home looking fresh.
Fall. Before winter sets in, clear away fallen leaves and prepare your home’s exterior for colder weather. Late fall is an excellent time for a thorough pressure wash.
Winter. Pressure washing during winter is generally not recommended, especially in regions prone to freezing temperatures. Unless you live in a warm climate, waiting until spring is best.
Signs Your Home Needs Pressure Washing
If you're unsure whether your home needs a deep clean, watch for these common signs that it's time for a pressure wash:
Visible dirt, stains, or grime. Do you see layers of dirt, stains, or grime building up on your home’s external surfaces, driveway, or walkways? They are the most visible signs your home could use a deep clean with professional pressure washing equipment.
Presence of mold or mildew. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, shady areas, especially in humid climates. Check your siding and walls for green or black spots, particularly around nooks, corners, and crevices.
Faded paint or dull appearance. Does your home’s exterior look like the paint has lost its vibrancy? It might not be time for a fresh coat of paint just yet—dirt and pollutants can make your home look worn. Schedule a pressure wash first to remove the buildup and restore your home’s original look.
Post-storm buildup. After a big storm, dirt, leaves, and other debris can get trapped against your home. Heavy rainfall can also leave behind mud splatters and other marks that dull your home’s appearance.
Benefits of Regular Pressure Washing
Regular pressure washing services on a consistent schedule do more than just keep your home’s exterior free of contaminants. It can also provide many long-term benefits, enhancing your property’s value and appeal.
Curb appeal boost. A clean home is a beautiful home. Regular pressure washing can improve your property’s appearance, potentially increasing its market value.
Damage prevention. Pressure washing shields your home from long-term damage. It removes harmful substances like mold, mildew, and algae. This protects your home from rot, decay, and premature aging.
Healthier environment. Keeping a property’s exterior clean isn’t just about looks—it is also safer for the occupants. Pressure washing eliminates allergens like mold and pollen, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.
Schedule a Professional Pressure Washing Service For the Best Results
At The Service Pros, we’ve been making homes sparkle since 2005. Our team has the equipment and experience to handle all exterior surfaces with the right care and proper cleaning techniques.
We stand behind our work and professionalism—all washing services are covered by our one-year guarantee. Give us a call today and let us handle your home maintenance needs.
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