Whether you’re trying to get your home ready to sell or just want to maximize curb appeal, washing away the dirt and grime can make all the difference. But what if you don’t have the time, tools or skill set to tackle the job yourself?
Luckily, you can turn to professional house washers for help. They use low to moderate water pressure and specialized cleaning solutions to lift mildew, algae and other contaminants without the need for harmful chemicals.
Safety
Many commercial cleaning companies utilize high-pressure blasts of water paired with harmful chemical cleaners to remove surface contaminants like mildew and mold. Using these chemicals can cause expensive damage to exterior surfaces such as paint, window and door seals, and gutters.
Power washers can also damage landscaping and outdoor furniture if a person isn’t careful. Even if the spray isn’t immediately visible, the force of the water can do internal tissue damage to a person who accidentally comes into contact with it.
If you use a gas pressure washer, it is essential to wear ear protection and have your eyes covered. The sound of a petrol engine is loud and will be amplified by a small space, such as a garage or basement. Moreover, it emits carbon monoxide which is a colorless and odorless poisonous gas that can build up to dangerously high levels in enclosed areas. This can lead to asphyxiation resulting in dizziness, weakness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
Cleanliness
A quality house wash is a safe way to rid your exterior of dirt, mildew, mold and black algae. It requires low to moderate water pressure along with specialized cleaning agents and algaecides.
Cleaners used in a house wash are often bleach and biodegradable to protect plants, flowers, grass and the environment. The house washing solution is sprayed onto surfaces with low pressure and often a surfactant to assist in the cleaning process. The strength of the cleaning solution is determined by surface material, i.e. brick, Hardie siding, stone or Stucco – porous materials would typically require a higher concentration of up to 3% sodium hypochlorite mixed with water. Dwell times are also adhered to.
The final step is a rinse with a high volume of water not exceeding 300 psi to remove the cleaning solutions and soap residue. This is a key step that many homeowners try to skip which can cause flash oxidation, pencil striping and damaged paint (especially Sherwood Williams Organic Paint). A professional house washer will know the proper techniques to avoid these issues.
Health
The removal of mildew, algae, dirt and other pollutants from the exterior of buildings is not only good for curb appeal but also helps to maintain a building’s value. Keeping surfaces clean removes harmful substances that can affect the health of those that live in the home or business. This is particularly true for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Power washing professionals take health measures to ensure their own and the safety of those around them. They use a water source that is free of contaminants, and they often test their equipment for proper operation in varying temperatures.
They also check for carbon monoxide in enclosed areas or poorly ventilated spaces, which can cause poisoning if exposed in large quantities. Carbon monoxide is produced by gas-powered pressure washers and can build up quickly in these environments, causing illness or even death if not monitored closely. They also make sure to use fans to bring in fresh air.
Curb Appeal
The way your house looks from the outside can have a direct effect on the value of your property. When the outside is clean and well maintained, it is more appealing to prospective home buyers and makes you proud of your property.
Regular pressure washing services keep exterior surfaces clean by removing mold, dirt and moss. They can also be used to clean brick pathways, concrete driveways and sidewalks, shingle roofs, house siding, fences, patios and decks.
Adding flowers or planters around the front of your house is another easy and affordable curb appeal project that can improve your property’s look. Watering and mowing your lawn regularly will also help with curb appeal. Keeping your property’s lighting, front door and trim in good condition is also an important part of curb appeal. These are simple steps that can make your property stand out to potential home buyers and boost its value over time. This is particularly important if you plan to sell your property in the future.