Paint does not stick to dirt, chalk or mildew. Every exterior we paint starts with a wash, and we also wash houses, decks and walkways as standalone maintenance for homeowners in Bethesda, Rockville, Silver Spring and across DC.
Most siding does not need high pressure. A strong stream forces water behind vinyl siding, into the end grain of wood, and can erode the mortar in brick. We use a soft wash for siding and masonry: a cleaner that kills mildew and algae, applied at low pressure and rinsed. Higher pressure is reserved for concrete and for stripping old stain on decks. Washing is the first step of our exterior painting and deck and fence staining jobs, and concrete is cleaned the same way before garage floor coating.
What we wash
Siding
Vinyl, fiber cement and painted wood, soft washed to remove mildew, algae and chalk.
Brick and stone
Low pressure with a masonry-safe cleaner to protect mortar joints.
Decks and fences
Cleaned or stripped, then brightened so wood takes stain evenly.
Concrete and walkways
Driveways, patios and steps cleaned with surface cleaners for even results.
Gutters and trim faces
Black streaks on gutter faces and soffits cleaned before painting.
Storefronts and sidewalks
Commercial entries and walks cleaned on off-hours schedules.
Local insight: washing homes around the Potomac
The green film on north walls is algae
Houses under the big oaks and tulip poplars in Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Takoma Park grow a green or black film on shaded walls. Pressure alone spreads it around and it returns quickly. A soft wash with a proper cleaner kills it at the root, and it stays away longer.
Storm drains here flow to the Bay
Storm drains in Montgomery County, Prince George's County and DC carry water to the Potomac and Anacostia rivers and on to the Chesapeake Bay without treatment. We choose cleaners with that in mind, protect plantings, and collect loose paint chips instead of washing them into the yard or the street. On pre-1978 homes, chips are handled as potential lead waste.
Wood has to dry before it is painted
Washing puts water into wood. We let siding and decks dry, usually at least a full day of dry weather and longer after heavy rain, and check with a moisture meter. Wood should be under about 15 percent moisture before paint or stain goes on.
How a wash runs
Protect
Plants wetted and covered, outlets and light fixtures taped, windows closed.
Pre-treat
Cleaner applied to mildew, algae and stains and given time to work.
Rinse
Low-pressure rinse from top to bottom; higher pressure only on concrete.
Brighten wood
Decks and fences treated with a brightener after stripping.
Dry and check
Moisture readings taken before any paint or stain is scheduled.
Pressure washing questions
Is it safe to pressure wash vinyl siding?
High pressure can drive water behind vinyl and into the wall. We soft wash vinyl with low pressure and a cleaner, which removes mildew more completely without that risk.
Will washing damage my brick?
Not with the right method. Older brick and soft lime mortar can erode under high pressure, so we use low pressure and masonry-safe cleaners.
How often should a house be washed?
Shaded houses under heavy tree cover often benefit from a wash every one to two years. Sunny houses can go longer. Regular washing also extends the life of your paint.
Do you need my water supply?
Usually yes. We connect to an outside spigot. If you do not have one available, let us know when you book.