Power washing is an effective way to clean up nasty streaks and grime on the exterior surfaces of your home. At Maintain It All, we recommend it especially when your outdoor living space is susceptible to mold, mildew, algae, moss or any organic growth that destroys its host material. Be forewarned that not all surfaces can survive the intense force of power washing.

Power washing equipment is designed with a powerful pump to force water through the hose under very high pressure. Depending on the type of dirt and stains to be removed, it can be used with cold or hot water and even steam. It literally blasts the grime away in seconds. It is ideal for hard surfaces such as concrete, brick or stone.

Surfaces You Should Never Power Wash

Certain materials require a gentle approach for cleaning. Power washing can literally tear them apart. Here is a list of things to avoid with a power washer and why:

• Asphalt Shingles - Removes the protective granules and can blow the shingles off the roof
• Wood Siding or Wood Shingles – Shreds the fibers and splits the wood
• Vinyl Siding – Cracks and punctures the siding
• Aging Mortar – Blasts it out from between the bricks
• Painted or Stained Surfaces – Shreds the paint and removes the surface stain
• Stucco – Blasts the granules off the walls
• Lead Paint – Leaves highly toxic residue in the environment
• Windows and Glass Doors – Cracks or smashes the glass
• Gutters and Downspouts – Loosens the fasteners
• AC Units, Heat Pumps, Electrical Panels and Meters – Creates an electrical hazard
• Light Fixtures – Damages the fixtures and creates electrical hazards
• Outdoor Furniture – Causes severe shredding, ripping and damage
• Exterior Screens – Tears holes in the screens

The Alternative of Soft Washing

Soft washing uses low-pressure water for cleaning exterior surfaces in combination with a bleaching disinfectant and sometimes a surfactant. It safely removes grime and organic materials from surfaces that cannot be power washed.

Contact the Exterior Maintenance Professionals

It can be confusing for a homeowner to decide when to power wash versus soft wash. At Maintain It All we have been restoring homes to their original shine for over a decade. Our team of professionals can determine the type of cleaning needed to achieve optimal results. Contact us today to learn more about power washing or soft washing options for your home.