Exterior cleaning involves washing the entryway, windows, porch, and roof of a home. Cleaning the landscaping is not considered part of this service since it falls under professional lawn care. Read on for some ideas.
It’s important to wash a home’s exterior on a regular basis to keep it looking its best and prevent damage over time from mildew, dirt, pollen, bugs, moss, and more. Learn how to perform these services effectively with this guide.
Window Cleaning
Professional window cleaners have special tools and techniques that help them reach windows that a homeowner might not be able to get to. These include a high-pressure spray nozzle with a solution dispensing cylinder and eight different spray patterns (from mist to shower to water-only). They also remove screens to clean glass in between the frames, and they may use deionized water that eliminates mineral residue and prevents streaking.
To remove tough stains, such as bird droppings or paint specks, saturate the area thoroughly with vinegar and water solution. Then, if necessary, rub the surface with a soft sponge or, for tempered glass, with a nylon scrub pad designed to avoid scratching.
Be sure to dry the window with a lint-free cloth afterward, as this will eliminate any remaining cleaner and help avoid drips. Aim for a continuous side-to-side swoop, like the shape of a figure eight, to make sure all areas of the window are cleaned evenly.
Porch Cleaning
Over the course of summer, dirt has accumulated on your front porch. Sweeping and blowing leaves and debris from the porch is usually enough to remove the bulk of the build-up, but sometimes you need to go further than this to get a really clean look.
Using a mild detergent or cleaning solution specifically designed for the type of porch material you have, begin by dampening the surface. This will help loosen any dirt that has accumulated and will ensure you are working with a clean brush or sponge.
Be sure to pay special attention to any tight spots or corners on your porch, as these can collect dirt and grime that is hard to reach. If you have a screened-in porch, be sure to thoroughly wipe down all the cushions and seats with a cloth or wet wipe. This will also be a good time to check the screens for damage and rips.
Roof Cleaning
Cleaning your roof is an important task to help protect your home from water damage. A dirty roof can attract moss, mildew, and other growths that hold moisture against your walls. These organisms can also clog gutters and downspouts, making them less effective at draining rainwater.
High-pressure washing uses pressurized water to blast away moss, mold, and dirt. This method is effective, but it’s also damaging to most roofing materials and can void your roof warranty.
Soft washing, on the other hand, is a gentler process that uses low water pressure (under 1,000 psi) and detergents to target stains. This method is safe for most roofs and works great for cedar shake siding, stucco, coquina, outdoor wood furniture, screen enclosures, lanais, outdoor rooted plants, vinyl siding, and more. This method is also ideal for metal roofs as it reduces the risk of rust and corrosion. It’s best to clean your roof twice a year for the most protection.
Siding Cleaning
The siding on your home is designed to protect it from the elements, but debris can accumulate and cause stains. Dirt, mildew, and lichen can cause a variety of discolorations that affect the overall appearance of your home. Cleansers that target these stains and eliminate them are usually safe for use on most siding, although some products that contain organic solvents (e.g., undiluted chlorine bleach, nail polish remover, and liquid grease remover) can damage or erode it.
Fiber cement siding manufacturers like James Hardie recommend using a soft cloth or brush, a garden hose, and a solution of water and mild dishwashing soap to remove dirt and grime from their products. When scrubbing, rinse the brush or cloth frequently so that the soap doesn’t dry on the surface.
A general household cleaner such as oxygen bleach (or hydrogen peroxide) can also be used on cedar siding to remove mold and mildew stains. The cleaner contains no chemical odors or fumes and is safer for plants than chlorine bleach. Check this out!