The Importance Of Power Washing Your Home

Why do I have to power wash my deck?

A: The forces of weather can be devastating to wood. The sun’s ultra violet rays can damage the wood fibers and turn the wood gray. Rain, snow, and morning dew are absorbed by unprotected wood, causing it to swell excessively. When the sun's heat dries the wood it shrinks back. These cycles of wet and dry, swelling and shrinking causes the wood to warp, split, cup and crack. Cleaning the wood will remove the discoloration and prepare and clean surface for the stain or sealer. The sealer or stain will provided a protective coating to extend the life of your investment.

Why should I power wash my house before painting it?

A: Power washing can remove the dirt and grime on the surfaces that you’re about to have painted. Paint will not adhere well to dirt or loose paint which could cause any new paint coatings to fail quickly.

How often should I power wash my siding?

A: Every home should be cleaned about every two years to remove surface dirt, algae, mold, and mildew. The condition of the home’s surface will determine how good your home will look after cleaning. If you rub your hand over the surface of the siding and you end up with a chalky film on your hand, your home siding is oxidized and needs special attention. The oxidation is caused by the sun and weather elements. Inexperienced contractors often promise to remove this powder when they clean your siding. However, removing this layer of oxidation will cause the siding to appear blotchy and discolored. Another problem to look for with your pressure-wash contractor is a condition known as artillery fungus (black spots that won’t rub off). Artillery fungus lives in the mulch around your Milwaukee home and there is no way to remove it after it has dried on the surface for a month or more.

Are chemicals used when power washing?

A: Yes, although contractors often use extremely strong wood cleaners, all products used are biodegradable and environmentally safe. Responsible contractors do not use common bleach to clean wood, except in special situations. The cleaners used will not kill grass or plants, but may cause discoloration of the leaves. In this case, new growth will replace old growth within weeks and the plants will be fine.