When it comes to keeping your home looking its best, regular exterior house washing is essential. Not only does it improve the overall appearance of your property, but it also helps prevent damage caused by dirt, grime, and mildew buildup. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the best practices and tips for exterior house washing in Hamilton. From the soft wash method to pressure washing, we’ll cover it all. Let’s get started!
Why Exterior House Washing is Important
Cleaning the exterior of your house goes beyond just aesthetics. Regular house washing helps protect your property from damage caused by dirt, grime, and other pollutants. It also helps maintain the value of your home and prolong the lifespan of your paint and building materials. By investing in exterior house washing, you can ensure that your home remains in top condition for years to come.
The Soft Wash Method: A Gentle Approach
One of the most effective and safe ways to wash your house is by using the soft wash method. This technique involves using a water blaster to spray a combination of bleach, detergent, and water onto your surfaces. The mixture helps remove hard-to-remove dirt and mildew, providing a deep clean that regular water blasting and scrubbing can’t achieve.
To perform a soft wash, you’ll need a water blaster with a chemical venturi. This allows you to draw a housewash chemical mix through your high-pressure hose and onto the house surfaces. For a medium-sized house, you can create a solution by mixing 5 litres of household bleach with 4 litres of water and 1 litre of dishwashing liquid. Apply the solution to the house and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing off completely. This method is safe for established plant life and easily biodegrades with sunlight and heat.
Stay Safe with an Adjustable Nozzle System
Working at heights can be dangerous, especially when water is involved. To ensure your safety while washing multi-level homes, it’s essential to use an adjustable nozzle system. Blue nozzles are designed to shoot the house wash chemical mix up to 10 meters high, while red nozzles are used for rinsing off with water. If your water blaster doesn’t have this system, you can consult a specialist house wash equipment supplier to get the necessary attachments.
Remember to always spray at a sharp angle when washing windows, flashings, and fittings to avoid water ingress. Water entering your home can cause damage, especially to wooden window frames, roof flashings, and light fittings. Use a house wash brush to reach hard-to-reach areas around windows if needed. Taking the time to plan and use the right spraying techniques will prevent water from seeping inside your house.
Soft Wash Your House Annually
As part of regular maintenance, it is recommended to softwash your house annually. This practice is often required by paint manufacturers and recommended by painters to prolong the life of your paint and exterior building materials. Soft washing is gentler on the building than commercial washes, as it requires less pressure and chemicals to get the job done effectively. By incorporating annual soft washes into your maintenance routine, you can keep your house looking pristine and well-maintained.
Be Patient and Methodical in Your Approach
Before you begin the actual washing process, it’s essential to have a plan in place. Start by identifying the areas you’ll tackle and how you’ll access hard-to-reach spots. By breaking the work up into sections and starting with extras such as paths, decks, furniture, pergolas, and balconies, you can save time and minimize the need for multiple washes.
Always use the house wash chem mix as described earlier and a soft brush on surfaces before resorting to water blasting. This cautious approach ensures you don’t unintentionally damage your house while trying to clean it. Take your time, be patient, and methodically work through each section. It’s much easier to prevent water from entering your home than dealing with the aftermath of a soaked interior.
Tips for Cleaning Different Exterior Surfaces
Every home is unique, and the type of exterior surface you have will determine the best cleaning method. Here are some tips for cleaning different surfaces:
1. Vinyl, Wood Siding, and Hybrid Materials
Vinyl, wood siding, and hybrid materials can withstand pressure washing. If your house is made of these materials, pressure washing is the way to go. Start by inspecting your home for stains that can be easily cleaned with a scrub brush, water, and regular dishwashing soap. For tougher stains, use a solution made of oxygen bleach, water, and dishwashing liquid. Scrub the stain until it lifts, but be cautious not to damage the surface.
When pressure washing, choose a low setting to avoid causing damage. Begin spraying at a downward angle and hold the pressure washer steadily as you move it from side to side in a sweeping motion. Remember to work from top to bottom and avoid stopping in one spot to prevent any potential damage. Rinse off the house with water when you’re finished, and let it air dry.
2. Brick and Stucco
Brick and stucco require a gentler approach to cleaning. High-pressure washers can damage these surfaces, so it’s best to use a low-pressure cleaner and a specialised detergent. This combination ensures that the brickwork and joints are protected while effectively removing dirt and grime. Start by inspecting the surface for any stains that can be cleaned without pressure washing. Use a scrub brush, water, and regular dishwashing soap for lighter stains. For tougher stains like mildew, create a solution of oxygen bleach, water, and dishwashing liquid. Scrub the stain until it lifts, but be cautious not to damage the surface.
Next, use a low-pressure cleaner and a specialised detergent to clean the brick or stucco. Work in small sections, spraying from top to bottom, and rinse with clean water when finished. Take care not to aim the spray directly into the joints to prevent water from getting trapped and causing potential damage. Always start cleaning in a less visible spot to ensure compatibility between the detergent and the material.
3. Delicate Cedar Shingles
Delicate Cedar shingles require extra care when cleaning to avoid damage. Pressure washing is unsuitable for this type of surface, as it can cause the paint to flake off and the wood to be damaged. Instead, opt for the soft wash method described earlier. Apply the house wash chem mix using a soft brush and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off with clean water. This gentle approach will effectively remove dirt and grime without compromising the integrity of the delicate wood shingles.
Additional Tips and Considerations
Here are a few additional tips and considerations to keep in mind when washing the exterior of your house:
- Always close all doors and windows before starting the cleaning process. Secure them with tape if necessary to prevent water ingress.
- Cover outside light fixtures, vents, and electrical outlets with duct tape and plastic sheeting to protect them from water damage.
- Move lawn furniture away from the house to avoid obstacles while cleaning.
- Cover plants and shrubbery with plastic sheeting to prevent any potential harm from cleaning chemicals or water pressure.
- If you’re using a pressure washer, ensure that kids and pets are indoors for their safety.
- Consider using extensions and spray tips if you have a two-story home to reach higher areas effectively.
- Wear safety goggles when using a pressure washer to protect your eyes from debris and water splashes.
- Avoid pressure washing if you have roses or ivy growing near the house, as the high-pressure water can damage delicate plants.
- If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with pressure washing, it’s best to call a professional to ensure the job is done safely and effectively.
Conclusion
Exterior house washing is an essential part of maintaining the beauty and integrity of your home. Whether you choose the soft wash method or pressure washing, following the right techniques and precautions will help you achieve excellent results without causing any damage. By regularly cleaning the exterior of your house, you can enjoy a well-maintained property that stands out in your neighbourhood. Remember to plan, take your time, and prioritize safety throughout the process. With these tips and guidelines, you can confidently tackle exterior house washing in Hamilton.