Pressure Washing FAQ
Q: Will pressure washing my house damage my paint job?
A: Everything we do on painted surfaces is low pressure so there is no danger of stripping off paint. However, underlying issues with your paint job may be uncovered through the result of house washing. If the paint is decades old or the wood underneath it is rotting some of it may flake off. Some painted surfaces as well as vinyl siding with a lot of sun exposure may clean unevenly and be chalky looking or streaky. We will be able to recognize the potential for these cleaning results and inform our clients before they decide to go ahead with a house wash.
Q. Why are there still vertical black streaks on the outside of my gutters?
A: These stains are caused by an electrostatic bond between the aluminuim gutter and runoff from roofing materials. We can often make these stains lighten but removing them completely is not possible. If you look around you will see that everybody has them!
Q. Will my electrical outlets, light fixtures, doorbells, outdoor speakers and other outside electrical mechanisms be safe?
A: Yes, these outdoor mechanisms are grounded to protect them in case of any moisture. We take special care not to put a direct stream of water on anything like that even though they are made to withstand outdoor exposure. Sometimes a cleaning can cause a GFI outlet to trip, but it will work just fine after the moisture evaporates, usually within a couple hours.
Q: Do you take special care with windows and doors?
A: Yes, A pressure washer used in the wrong manner can cause damage to doors and windows. We always use light pressure applied at an angle that is effective for cleaning and safe for the many components of windows and doors. Be advised that some water may trickle in through these openings during a housewash. A window may drip from the top of the sash or a door may get a little puddle underneath it if the sweep or weather stripping is missing or worn down. This is normal and we stand on the ready to sop up anything that drips in.
Q: Will you bring your own water?
A: No, we hook up to your supply. Under some circumstances we may bring our own water but typically this is not necessary or feasible for us. On homes with low water pressure we can use our smaller machines, it just takes a little more time.
Q: What do you do to protect plants?
A: It depends on the kind of plant and its proximity to the house. We avoid them, rinse them, and cover them based on what is needed. We typically move potted stuff. We love plants and know how important they are to the enjoyment of your home and garden. We are all in this business because we love working outside, and being around plants and working with them is a great joy and point of pride for us. Our industry kind of has a bad rep for damaging plants with harsh chemicals and physical trauma. We are here to prove that pressure washers and gardens can peacefully coexist!
Q: Will house washing also clean my windows?
A: Yes, the look of the windows will improve, however it will not be detailed to the extent you would get with a full window cleaning service. Also, house washing helps just the exterior of the windows, the interior window grime will still be there. So if you want windows to look excellent don't expect that from a house wash. That said you will definitely see your windows brighten after a housewash, and we fully recommend a house wash as the best value for improving your properties overall appearance with one service.
Q: I had a bad experience with a previous pressure washing service, I don't want to repeat that. How are you different?
A: We recognize potential issues at the consultation and estimation phase and inform you about what you can expect. No surprises. When we estimate a job we factor in what its going to take to protect the things in your home that may be vulnerable to the conditions inherent to your cleaning. Most bad experiences with pressure washing contractors stem from inexperience of the person performing the job, improper equipment, or a lack of two-way communication between the client and contractor. We have been learning our lessons since 2006 and we know what it takes to get a great cleaning result while maintaining conditions that do not damage property and put us and our customers in a place of mutual appreciation and understanding.
Q: Do you also seal or paint wood decks? I want my deck sealed after you clean it.
A: No but we can do the surface prep and can recommend a top notch painter from our list of preferred associates.
Q: Do you clean driveways, patios, outdoor furniture, garden walls, yard art, mail boxes, neighborhood signs, and other things in addition to houses and decks?
A:Yep. Just ask and we will see what we can do.
Q. When is the best time of year to pressure wash?
A: When you are ready to see it clean. The exterior of a home is constantly assaulted year round. There are leaves falling in autumn, mold and mildew growing in winter, pollen in spring, and bugs and dust in summer. If you are unhappy with the way your house looks don't hold off because you fear something is around the corner to degrade the result of your cleaning, because this is always the case and waiting does not improve your situation. Once the house is clean we can give you pointers on how to maintain that cleanliness, but understand cleaning is an ongoing maintenance issue. We recommend house washing at least once every two years to keep your exterior from falling into a state of negligence. If you really want to maintain a super spiffy look do it once a year. Our main recommendation with timing is if you don't like the way your house looks, that's the best time to clean it. You will feel better after its done.