Making Your Home Look New by Power Washing
Materials used to finish the exterior of a home such as siding and stone are meant to hold up for a long time. This does not mean that they can go completely unmaintained and still look like the day they were installed. Over time the elements will have an effect on the materials. This can show as a coating of dirt, grime or mildew that will not easily disappear. Power washing is an effective way to remove this buildup and make your home look new again.
Why Power Wash?
The unsightly buildup that occurs over time can occur on just about any surface. Siding any other vertical surfaces will begin to look dingy and their bright color will lessen. Cleaning these areas is more about the aesthetics and visual appeal of the exterior. Mildew and grime can also accumulate on flat surfaces such as walkways, decks and stairs. This will make those surfaces slicker so power washing them improves the safety of your outdoor areas.
How Often?
The frequency you need to power wash will depend on several factors but doing it once or twice a year is common. Areas with a lot of moisture or splashing mud may degrade quicker and need it more often. The same can be said for heavily shaded areas since sometimes the lack of sunlight can cause an accelerated buildup of mold and mildew.
How Difficult?
Power washing itself is not necessarily difficult, however, expertise and knowledge will always be a benefit. You can power wash with just water but the best results will come when cleaning chemicals are mixed into the stream. Contractors will know how to do this safely and effectively. Also, reaching the eaves and gutters of your home may require a ladder or scaffolding and can be dangerous to tackle yourself.
Improve the exterior appearance by power washing your home on a regular basis. Proper maintenance is key to enjoying the long-lasting beauty your house was meant to have.