Keeping the outside of your home clean can protect it from damage and increase its value. Using the right tools and cleaning solutions makes this maintenance task easier and less labor-intensive.
Organic dirt caked onto house surfaces attracts mold, mildew and fungi. It also weakens paint and siding materials. Regular washing prevents these organisms from growing, preventing more serious problems down the line.
Soft Washing vs Pressure Washing
When it comes to exterior house cleaning, there are two main ways of getting surfaces clean. One way is to pressure wash. The other way is to use a soft washing system. Both of these systems can be effective, but the type you choose will depend on what types of surfaces you want to wash and how much damage you’re willing to risk.
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to forcefully remove stains, dirt, debris, and build-up from surfaces. It’s a great choice for tough surfaces like concrete, and it can be very fast and effective. However, it can also damage delicate materials such as wood and vinyl siding. It’s often best to leave this job to professionals who have the experience and equipment to avoid damaging your property. A soft washing system can provide similar results to pressure washing without the risk of damage.
Preparing the Surfaces
The outside area of your residential building naturally collects moisture during rain or winter. This, together with pollen, dust and other pollutants, quickly leads to the build-up of grime. If this layer of dirt is not removed on a regular basis, it can cause serious damage. It can also act as a foothold for mildew, algae and fungus. Regular cleaning helps prevent this from happening and protects your home against structural damage.
Ivy, for example, quickly attaches to house walls and can cause permanent damage. This fast-growing climber not only spreads harmful microbes but also ruins the appearance of your home. Regular washing of your house’s exterior ensures the longevity of your paint job and protects it against mildew and mold.
Most facade types can be washed using a pressure washer. However, composite resin and TICS require a gentle manual approach. We recommend STIHL stone and facade cleaner, which reliably removes tough green deposits and accumulated exhaust emissions without damaging the facade.
Cleaning the Roof
The roof over your head protects your home and its belongings from the elements. It’s also the first line of defense against moisture and mold. A dirty roof can damage the shingles and weaken the structure of the house itself. A thorough cleaning is a necessity.
Cleaning your roof can remove lichens, moss and algae that accumulate on the surface of your house’s asphalt shingle roofing. It can also prevent future growth of these plants.
If your roof has algae, moss or lichen, consider safely applying a biocide to inhibit further growth. Depending on your preference, you may choose to use an eco-friendly cleaner that won’t leave bleach-like vapors and overspray on your windows or your flowers and other plant life.
Cleaning the Gutters
Gutters are one of the primary defenses against water damage to a home’s roof, siding and foundation. However, clogged gutters can overflow and cause costly repairs. It’s important to clean the gutters during all seasons, especially in autumn when leaves fall and spring when melting snow can fill up the gutters.
The dirt, cobwebs and debris that accumulate in a dirty gutter are the perfect breeding ground for pests like ants, spiders, and rodents. In addition, they can erode paint and stain the siding on your home. Cleaning the gutters on a regular basis can keep your home clean and save you money on costly repairs and repainting.
Cleaning the gutters isn’t a fun chore, but it’s vital to a safe and healthy property. If you’re not comfortable climbing a ladder and cleaning your own gutters, or if you’re in a high-rise building, you can hire a professional to take care of this task for you.