House Washing Tips

House washing is a necessary part of home maintenance. But it doesn't have to be a time-consuming chore.

Speed-cleaning expert Debbie Sardone says the best way to cut your cleaning time is to develop a system. Start with a plan, she suggests, like using one bucket or caddy for all your supplies. Read on to know more.

Power Washing

Power washing is a great way to blast away dirt, grime, mildew, and mold from exterior surfaces like sidings, decks, roofs, and gutters. It’s also ideal for removing grease stains from driveways and garage floors.

If you’re new to power washing, it’s best to start on a hard surface like a concrete or asphalt driveway. Then, apply detergent using a lower-pressure soap nozzle. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly use and store your pressure washer.

As a general rule, you should power wash your house on a dry, mild day in spring or fall. That way, the sun won’t dry the cleaning products before they’re rinsed off. It’s also a good idea to hire a professional power-washing group to avoid the risk of injury and property damage. The company will know the right nozzle to use and how much water to spray, so they’ll be able to clean your entire home without any issues.

Pressure Washing

Pressure washing isn’t just about looks, though. It’s also about stopping damage in its tracks. The dirt, mildew, moss, and grime that build up on buildings and outdoor items can actually eat through surface coatings like paint and concrete sealant.

A good cleaning with a pressure washer blasts away these materials and stops them in their tracks, saving homeowners a lot of headaches (and money) down the road. It’s not hard to see why so many people turn to this handy tool for cleaning their homes.

Just keep in mind that handling a power washer isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s risky if you don’t follow the proper safety precautions, and it can be physically demanding to spend hours reaching high and low on a vertical surface. That’s why so many home DIYers hire a pro. These professionals can make short work of a house wash in less time than it would take one avid DIYer to do by hand.

Window Washing

While the average person may not notice it, a dirty window can significantly affect the look of your home. It can be a turn-off for potential buyers and also a safety hazard.

Professional window washers are able to tackle dirt, grime, and even some stains that can be stuck on windows. They use different cleaners depending on the type of water available and the location of the house.

Having the right tools and technique is key for a streak-free shine. A clean squeegee is essential for a job well done. Professionals always keep a clean rag in their pocket to wipe the scrubber and remove excess soapy water that runs down the woodwork.

Working at high elevations is a very dangerous task that requires specific training and certifications. This includes a valid safety certification and an extensive understanding of risk management. In addition, these professionals should understand the stability of their scaffolding and suspended platforms and know how to work safely when it comes to wind conditions.

Floor Cleaning

As the main route through which dust, dirt, and grime enter a home, floors need to be regularly swept and mopped. Sweeping prevents grit from scratching or damaging surfaces and can remove small surface marks. Mopping should be done at least once a week in high-traffic areas, and using the right cleaning products is important for the specific type of flooring.

For example, vinyl and linoleum floors should be mopped with a nonabrasive all-purpose cleaner or mild (or pH-neutral) soap. Avoid overusing cleaning products, as this can cause residues that leave a dingy and streaky finish; follow product manufacturer instructions for proper dilution ratios.

Hardwood floors require regular sweeping and should be mopped only with a very small amount of water. It's helpful to use a soft-bristled mop to minimize damage and a towel to dry excess moisture. Lastly, be sure to test all cleaning products on a small area of flooring or in the corners of your room before applying them to avoid damaging your floors. Check out this interesting post!