House Washing

House Washing
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A house with dirty roof and windowsA porch with white siding and brown wood floors.

Comprehensive Guide to House Washing Services

House washing is a critical part of maintaining your home’s exterior. Over time, dirt, grime, algae, mold, and other pollutants can accumulate on your home’s siding, trim, gutters, and more, detracting from its curb appeal and even causing long-term damage. A professional house washing service not only restores your home’s appearance but also extends its lifespan. This guide will explore everything you need to know about house washing—from what’s included and optional add-ons to pricing and preparation.

Types of Siding and How They Are Cleaned

Different types of siding require tailored approaches for cleaning to ensure effective results without causing damage. Here are the most common types:

  • Vinyl Siding: Vinyl siding is durable but prone to algae and mildew growth. Soft washing—a low-pressure cleaning method combined with specialized detergents—is ideal for safely removing grime.
  • Wood Siding: Wood siding, such as cedar or painted wood, requires a gentle approach to avoid damaging the surface. Soft washing is also recommended to prevent stripping paint or warping wood.
  • Brick: Brick exteriors can handle higher pressure but may still require careful cleaning to avoid damaging mortar. Tall brick chimneys are often challenging to reach and may require specialized equipment or techniques.
  • Stucco: Stucco is porous and delicate, requiring soft washing with gentle cleaning agents to remove stains without eroding the surface.
  • Fiber Cement: Fiber cement siding is durable but should still be cleaned with a low-pressure system to prevent chipping or damage to the finish.

What’s Included in a Standard House Wash

A standard house washing service typically includes cleaning the following areas:

  • Siding: Removal of dirt, grime, algae, and mildew from the exterior walls.
  • Trim Work: Cleaning around windows, doors, and other decorative trim to eliminate dirt buildup.
  • Gutters: The exterior of gutters is washed to improve curb appeal (not to be confused with gutter brightening).

Commonly Skipped Areas

Some areas may be skipped during a standard house wash due to accessibility or additional challenges:

  • Tall Brick Chimneys: Hard-to-reach chimneys may require additional equipment or specialized service.
  • Foundation Splatter Zone: The area near the ground where dirt splashes onto the siding may require extra attention or an additional charge.

Optional Add-Ons for a Complete Home Package

Enhance your house washing service with these optional upgrades:

Gutter Brightening

  • Removes stubborn black streaks (tiger stripes) and oxidation from gutter exteriors.
  • Pricing: $1.00 – $2.00 per linear foot.

Deck Cleaning

  • Includes cleaning wooden or composite decks to remove algae, grime, and discoloration.
  • Pricing: $150 – $350, depending on deck size and condition.

Fence Cleaning

  • Removes dirt, algae, and weathering from wooden or vinyl fences.
  • Pricing: $100 – $300, based on linear footage.

Porch and Patio Cleaning

  • Pressure washing for concrete, brick, or stone patios and porches.
  • Pricing: $100 – $250, depending on size and material.

Driveway and Walkway Cleaning

  • Pressure washing to remove stains, oil, and grime from concrete or asphalt surfaces.
  • Pricing: $100 – $300, based on square footage.

Window Cleaning

  • Exterior window cleaning to remove streaks, dirt, and water spots.
  • Pricing: $5 – $10 per window.

What’s Typically Extra

While a house washing service covers the main exterior surfaces, these services are often considered extras:

  • Hard-to-Reach Areas: Extra charges may apply for areas like tall chimneys or second-story soffits.
  • Foundation Cleaning: Power washing the foundation may be an additional service.
  • Exterior Stain Removal: Specialized cleaning for rust, oil, or graffiti may cost extra.

Pricing Overview for House Washing Services

The cost of house washing depends on the size of your home, type of siding, and additional services selected. Here are general pricing ranges:

  • Standard House Washing: $200 – $600
  • Add-Ons:
    • Gutter Brightening: $1.00 – $2.00 per linear foot
    • Deck Cleaning: $150 – $350
    • Fence Cleaning: $100 – $300
    • Porch and Patio Cleaning: $100 – $250
    • Driveway Cleaning: $100 – $300
    • Window Cleaning: $5 – $10 per window

For a complete home package including house washing, deck cleaning, fence cleaning, gutter brightening, and patio cleaning, costs typically range from $600 to $1,500, depending on the size of your property and specific needs.

Preparing for a House Wash

To ensure the best results, prepare your home for a house washing service:

  • Clear the Area: Remove outdoor furniture, potted plants, and decorations near the house.
  • Close Windows and Doors: Ensure all windows and doors are tightly sealed to prevent water intrusion.
  • Notify Neighbors: Let neighbors know about the service to minimize disruption.

Conclusion

A professional house washing service is an investment in your home’s appearance and longevity. By understanding what’s included, the optional add-ons available, and the typical costs, you can tailor the service to your needs and budget. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply maintaining your home’s exterior, house washing delivers immediate results and long-term benefits. Reach out to Outdoor ProWash today for a customized quote and make your home shine!

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