Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get my property pressure cleaned?

Exterior walls can go from 1 to 3 years between cleanings in Florida depending on your trees and the dampness of your yard. Driveways and sidewalks generally need to be cleaned 2 or 3 time a year in a damp environment, every year or so in a sunny dry area.

How do I know when its time to get a pressure cleaning?

When you start seeing green algae, black mildew, pink or other colored mold or fungus growing on your house or flat surfaces, then its time for a cleaning. Don't make the mistake of waiting until your wall is completely black or green, as by then the mildew or algae has grown its roots deeper into the wall material and is degrading it and the paint.

Won't the high pressure water damage my house?

The professional pressure cleaner adjusts the amount of water pressure used according to the type of surface and the severity of the cleaning job. You generally only see damage when your wood, shingles, paint, mortar or stone are already deteriorated. Pressure cleaning will remove loose, cracking, peeling, chalky paint. It will also dislodge rotted wood under that paint.

What if I intend to paint after the pressure cleaning?

Be sure to tell your pressure cleaning professional whether you want to prep for paint or just do a routine cleaning. Different chemicals and pressures will be used depending on what you want to accomplish.

How does the pressure cleaner adjust the pressure?

There are 4 basic ways the professional pressure cleaner uses to adjust the pressure to the job: a pressure control valve on the pump, a throttle control on the motor,  changing nozzles, moving the nozzle farther from the surface.

What are the best chemicals to use to clean my house?

The are many chemicals available to the professional pressure cleaner. Chlorine (bleach) is the basis of many of the solutions used. Non-chlorine based chemicals are also available. The severity of the cleaning job and the surface to be cleaned will determine the best to use in a particular situation. Each of the chemicals, when used in the proper concentration for the job and the surface, will produce good results. Some soft spray processes and chemicals are often used on soft surfaces such as asphalt shingles. These chemicals tend to break down the mildew, dissolving it so it can be rinsed away with lower pressure. Several different chemicals will typically be used in cleaning a home as the surface and soil vary.

What does it cost to get my house pressure cleaned?

The cost will vary based on the size of the job, the severity of cleaning needed, and how many different things you are getting cleaned at once. The best way to know what it will cost is to call a professional pressure cleaner and ask them to come to your house and give you a firm quote. Most do not charge for the estimate. Then you will know what your house will cost to clean in its present condition.

Do I have to get the whole house cleaned if I only want the driveway done?

No. Just tell the pressure cleaner what work you want done, and they will give you a price to do that specific work. You can generally get a better deal if you are getting a lot of things done at once, so you get a package price, instead of a price for each individual item.

What can I use to pay for the work?

Some take cash, checks, and credit cards, or some combination of these. Ask the specific company you are talking to.

Do I have to reseal or restain my wood deck or dock after it is pressure cleaned?

Pressure washing breaks down the mildew in the wood and the chemicals kill it. They also open up the pores of the wood in the process. Therefore it is advisable to restain or reseal your wood deck after pressure cleaning it. This will help to preserve the wood for years to come. In Florida, you should consider resealing or restaining your wood deck or dock once a year anyway, because of the severe sun and moisture that it is constantly exposed to. Your alternative is to replace the decking more frequently, and not have as nice of a surface to enjoy.