What is a house wash?
House washing is the process of cleaning your home’s exterior surfaces – such as siding and soffits – to remove organic contaminants like dirt, mold, mildew, and grime. Professional house washing is typically performed using a method called soft washing, which is designed to safely clean without causing damage.
Unlike traditional pressure washing, soft washing uses low-pressure water (under 100 PSI) combined with specialized cleaning agents to effectively remove buildup. This method is safe and effective for a variety of exterior surfaces, including vinyl siding, brick, Hardie board, and stucco.
What is the house wash process?
Professional house washing generally follows these key steps:
Pre-Inspection: The technician performs a walkthrough to assess the home’s condition, ensures windows and doors are closed, confirms electrical outlets and fixtures are properly sealed, and takes before photos.
Pre-Rinse: The home’s exterior and surrounding landscaping – such as plants and shrubs – are pre-rinsed to help protect them during the cleaning process.
Washing: A cleaning solution is applied to the exterior surfaces and allowed to dwell for 5–15 minutes. Sodium hypochlorite (SH) is commonly used, and the solution strength is adjusted (0.5% to 1.0%) based on the condition of the surfaces.
Post-Rinse: The home and surrounding areas are thoroughly rinsed to remove and dilute the cleaning solution. Additional treatments may be performed if needed.
Post-Inspection: A final walkthrough is completed to ensure all surfaces are clean and after photos are taken.
Why is a house wash important?
Regular house washing is about more than just curb appeal – it’s an essential part of preventative home maintenance. Removing dirt, mold, mildew, algae, and grime helps prevent premature wear and costly repairs. When left untreated, these contaminants can lead to staining, wood rot, and the deterioration of siding and other exterior surfaces. Routine cleaning helps protect your investment, extend the lifespan of your home’s exterior, and keep it looking its best year-round.
