Keeping your home’s exterior clean not only boosts curb appeal but also protects and maintains the integrity of your property, from the roof down to the driveway. Pressure washing, a popular and effective method, strips away years of grime and buildup with ease. As the focus on environmentally friendly solutions intensifies, it’s become vital to consider the impact of the methods and products used in pressure washing on the environment. In this article, we dive into the best practices for exterior house washing that safeguard your surfaces while respecting the planet. You’ll discover tips, costs, and the benefits of alternative techniques suited to a variety of materials and settings.
Step 1 – Get Organised With the Right Equipment; We Recommend:
Embarking on an exterior house washing project begins with assembling the right gear. Prioritise selecting a washing machine that not only aligns with your budget but also operates efficiently. A model that conserves water effectively can curb future utility bills, thus managing long-term cost.
It’s wise to invest in quality over price when choosing a washing machine. A superior unit pays dividends by providing consistent and effective cleaning, minimising frustration and repeated spending on repairs or replacements. Consider it a smart advertisement for your property’s curb appeal as well.
While selecting equipment, one must not overlook the significance of water usage. I look for machines that boast eco-friendly features, which can significantly reduce water consumption. This consideration not just aids in environmental conservation but also trims down the cost of operation, a detail that is often underestimated.
Ultimately, the aim is to procure equipment that offers the best combination of efficiency, durability, and reasonable pricing. My personal strategy is to research and compare different washing machines, taking into account performance reviews and the machine’s longevity, to ensure my investment is justified. It’s akin to putting my money where the water is – directing funds towards resources that will sustain the value and appearance of my home.
Step 2 – Get Your House Prepared
Before I start any soft wash house washing, I make sure my home is ready for the procedure. The first step is to seal off any open windows and vents, shielding interiors from unexpected water ingress. Ensuring indoor safety from the watery blasts is like taking out an insurance policy against potential water damage during cleaning.
I take a walk around the house, shifting any moveable objects a good foot away from the walls. It’s important to clear a space that allows me free movement and prevents damage. This preliminary action saves the headache of last-minute scrambles to protect garden furniture or outdoor decor from the cleaning mix.
Selecting the right soap for my exterior is a crucial step in the preparation process. Not all cleaners are created equal; bleach-based solutions might be needed for tougher stains but can be harsh on some surfaces. I opt for biodegradable, environmentally friendly soaps whenever possible to maintain the integrity of my landscape while getting the grime off my house.
Last but not least, I double-check that my equipment settings are adjusted for a soft wash house washing technique. It’s a gentler approach that prevents damage to sidings or paint. The calibration of water pressure is essential; too strong a spray can lead to costly repairs, a situation I prefer to avoid by preparing meticulously.
Step 3 – Apply the Cleaning Product
When I tackle the task of applying cleaning products, my focus shifts to areas composed of concrete, such as driveways and patios. I carefully select a solution that effectively cuts through the dirt and grime without causing harm to the surface. It is crucial to apply the product evenly to avoid streaking or areas of uneven cleanliness.
The solution I employ for my deck contains a special formulation designed to cleanse without stripping away the protective coating or colour. As I spread the cleaning product, I ensure that every board receives attention, preserving both the material’s integrity and aesthetic appeal.
I have learned that a flat rate approach doesn’t suit all surfaces, and the application needs to be tailored to each material’s specific requirements. The measured distribution of cleaning agents is a subtle art that involves knowing just how much product the surfaces in question can handle without suffering damage.
Finally, before I wash the solution off, I allow it ample time to work its magic on the exterior of my house. Patience pays off as the solution loosens all the accumulated grime, paving the way for a rinse that reveals an immaculate and rejuvenated home facade.
Step 4 – Start Soft Washing
With my surfaces adequately soaked in the cleaning agent, I proceed with soft washing, starting from the top and working my way down. The technique is essential in avoiding dirt from upper sections trickling down to areas I’ve already cleaned. My motions are methodical, ensuring the surfactant has enough time to bind with the dirt before I rinse it away.
When washing the brick façade, I employ a soft touch to preserve the mortar. The surfactant I use is adept at loosening grime, so there’s no need for excessive pressure which could damage the brick. Careful application means the original beauty of the brickwork shines through without any risk to its structure.
As I advance, attention shifts to the painted surfaces. The consistency and spread of water are crucial to safeguard the paint job. A fine balance keeps the integrity of the paint intact, stripping away unwanted dirt without lifting the paint from its rightful place.
Moving on to the fence, I approach with a similar level of care. My goal is to purge the dirt that’s embedded in the nooks and crannies, revitalising the wood without causing it undue stress. The surfactant does its job, so my rinse can be gentle yet effective, breathing new life into the fence’s appearance.
Step 5 – Do a Walk Around
After completing the washing process, I take a thorough walk around the property. This gives me a chance to inspect the previously treated areas for any residual mould that may have been stubborn enough to cling on. Identifying and re-treating such spots is crucial to maintaining the exterior’s cleanliness and preventing mould from spreading again.
During my inspection, I take particular care to evaluate surfaces like wood which are prone to staining. Any remaining stain that has survived the earlier wash requires spot treatment with a stronger cleaner to ensure the wood looks uniformly clean and inviting.
I inspect all glass surfaces with a fine eye, as windows can often reveal overlooked streaks or spots. Using a quality window cleaner at this stage helps me achieve that sparkling finish, ensuring each pane reflects nothing but perfection.
Lastly, I scrutinise the overall cleanliness, making certain every inch of the exterior represents the thorough job I’ve strived for. If needed, I touch up any areas where the cleaner may not have fully done its job, ensuring a pristine and welcoming appearance all around.
Tips
When confronting mildew on my house siding, I adopt an assertive stance. I attack it at the onset, knowing that swift action prevents it from becoming a broader issue, which is a boon for the maintenance of my property’s condition.
The versatility of my garden hose never goes unnoticed during cleaning tasks. Deploying it with precision allows me to rinse surfaces thoroughly, thereby averting any residual cleaner from drying out and leaving unsightly marks on the exterior walls.
In the spirit of comprehensive home improvement, I consider washing my car an extension of the day’s tasks. It makes sense to capitalise on the cleaning equipment and solutions already at my disposal, streamlining my weekend chores into one efficient operation.
Aiming the nozzle overhead requires careful handling; maintaining control prevents excessive water pressure from damaging my siding or painting. It’s a delicate balance to strike, but with practice, it becomes second nature, much like any other skill honed over time in the pursuit of home perfection.
