Blast Away Dirt: How Often Should You Power Wash Your House in Different US Regions?

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Making sure the outside of your home sparkles requires more than just a little elbow grease and some soap. If you want it to shine, then power washing is the key – blasting away dirt, mildew, and unsightly outdoor build-ups that can otherwise make your house look dull and gloomy. But when do you know when it's time for a power wash? Depending on where you live in the U.S., weather conditions vary across different regions making certain areas need a more regular plan than others.

Here's a quick overview of how often should you power wash your house depending on which part of America you reside in:

• New England: Once a year in the late spring when the snow has melted and temperatures are stable.
• Mid-Atlantic: Bi-annually, once in the spring and once in the fall.
• Great Lakes: Once a year, in the late spring or early summer
• The Plains: Once a year in the spring
• Southeast: Bi-annually, once in the spring and once in the fall.
• Southwest: Once a year, in the spring or summer
• Pacific Northwest: once or twice a year, depending on the location
• Southwest: once a year, in the spring or summer

What is Power Washing?

Power washing, also known as pressure washing, is the process of exterior cleaning surfaces with high-pressure water to remove dirt, grime, and other substances. The primary purpose of power washing is to provide a quick and thorough cleaning of your home that are difficult to clean through traditional methods.

A Few Factors Affecting Pressure Washing Frequency

Having your property power washed is an essential part of regular maintenance. Not only does it increase your curb appeal, but it also helps to keep your property looking polished and clean. However, determining how often to power wash your house can be a challenge. In general, most house pressure washing companies recommend having your house pressure washed once a year to maintain your house's exterior appearance.

However, there are numerous factors to consider when determining the frequency of your pressure washing schedule. In this article, we will explore the various factors that affect power washing frequency to help you make an informed decision for your property and prevent having a dirty home.

Climate Conditions

The climate of your region can play an important role in determining how often your property should be power washed.

• Humid Regions: Areas with high humidity levels require more frequent cleaning due to the growth of mold and mildew.
• Dry regions, on the other hand, may require less frequent cleaning, but more attention needs to be paid to areas affected by dust and sand.
• Coastal regions often require more frequent cleaning as the salt from the ocean tends to have a corrosive effect on the exterior of buildings and surfaces. Moisture in the are can also cause increased mold and algae growth on roofs.

Environmental Conditions

Environmental conditions such as pollution levels, foliage, and proximity to industrial areas can all affect your pressure washing frequency. Areas with high levels of pollution require cleaning more frequently to prevent permanent damage from acidic pollutants. Properties with trees and foliage require more frequent cleaning to prevent buildup from leaves, sap, and bird droppings. Properties in proximity to industrial areas require more cleaning due to high levels of soot from industrial smokestacks and buildings. Some cities like New York City and Houston, TX, have some the of highest concentrated industrial areas in the country. According to Lung.org, Los Angeles is the most heavily polluted city in the US by ozone and Bakersfield, CA by particle pollution. This means that power washing in these areas should be done more frequently to prevent permanent damage from acidic pollutants.

Building Materials

Different building materials require different levels of care and attention when it comes to power or pressure washing.

• Brick surfaces require more frequent cleaning due to their porous nature, which absorbs dirt and grime.
• Vinyl siding requires more frequent cleaning due to their smooth surfaces, which allow dirt to accumulate quickly.
• Wood siding and surfaces, especially when untreated, require very gentle cleaning to preserve the wood's integrity. Opt for yearly soft washing.
• Stucco does not typically need to be cleaned as frequently, especially if it is a dark color.

*Please note that certain roofing materials will cling to dirt and grime more readily, making it beneficial for you to wash your house more frequently. For example, tile roofs are notorious for requiring roof cleaning more often than metal or asphalt shingle roofs.

Maintenance History

Your property's maintenance history can also affect your cleaning frequency. If you have a regular cleaning schedule, you will require less frequent cleaning. Previous frequencies can also be a good indicator of your property's needs. If you have been power washing your property regularly, you may be able to extend the frequency of cleaning. If it's been a while since your property was last cleaned, it may require more frequent cleaning to remove built-up grime.

According to CNBC, 77% of homeowners had to spend on repair costs within the first year of moving in. Regular pressure washing has been shown to extend the life of your outdoor surfaces, including asphalt shingle roofs. Not only is regular cleaning beneficial to an asphalt roof's longevity, but it can also help to improve curb appeal and the overall aesthetic of your property.

How Often Should You Pressure Wash Your House by US Region

Power washing is an essential household chore that can help keep your home looking new and fresh, especially if you live in areas with extreme weather or a lot of pollution. However, not all pressure washing methods or cleaning solutions are suitable for every region. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the best power washing recommendations for different regions of the United States and provide you with tips to keep your home looking pristine.

Northeast Region

• New England: New England's climate is harsh, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures in the winter months. The best time of year to power wash house in this region is once a year in the late spring when the snow has melted, and temperatures are stable. Use mild detergent and low pressure to avoid damaging your home's surfaces.
• Mid-Atlantic: The mid-Atlantic region is humid and prone to mold and mildew growth, especially on surfaces like brick and stucco. Power washing in this region should be done bi-annually; once in the spring and once in the fall. Use a bleach-based solution or professional mold-removal cleaning to keep surfaces clean and free of mildew.

Midwest Region

• Great Lakes: The Great Lakes region is known for its harsh weather patterns, especially in the winter months, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Power washing in this region should be done once a year, in the late spring or early summer, using mild detergent and low pressure once bad weather has dissipated.
• The Plains region is dry, with occasional dust storms and harsh winds. Power washing should be done once a year in the spring, using a high-pressure washer to remove dirt and dust that can accumulate on surfaces.

South Region

• Southeast: The Southeast region is humid and subtropical, with frequent thunderstorms and heavy rain. Pressure washing in this region should be done twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, using low pressure and mild detergent to remove dirt and grime.
• Southwest: The Southwest region is known for its high temperatures, dry climate, and dusty winds. Power washing in this region should be done once a year, in the spring or summer, using a high-pressure washer to remove accumulated dust and dirt. Be sure to avoid power washing surfaces that have been sealed or painted, as high pressure can strip the surface.

West Region

• Pacific Northwest: The Pacific Northwest region is known for its rain and humidity. Washing should be done once or twice a year, depending on the location, using a low-pressure washing equipment and mild detergent. It's important to avoid power washing unpainted wood surfaces, as this can cause damage.
• Southwest: The Southwest region is known for its high temperatures, dry climate, and dusty winds. Exterior cleaning in this region should be done once a year, in the spring or summer, using a high-pressure washer to remove accumulated dust and dirt. Be sure to avoid power washing surfaces that have been sealed or painted, as high pressure can strip the surface.

Overall, power washing your home can keep it looking clean and new, but it's important to consider the climate and region you live in when choosing the best cleaning method. By following these recommendations for your specific region, you'll be well-equipped to keep your home looking beautiful and free of damaging mold and mildew.

Conclusion

In conclusion, power or pressure washing your house is essential for maintaining its curb appeal and longevity. Factors such as climate, environmental conditions, building materials, and maintenance history determine the frequency of your home washing. Understanding your region's specific needs is crucial, whether it's dealing with mold in humid areas or dust in dry regions. Different surfaces require specific care, and following recommended guidelines ensures effective cleaning without damage. By adapting pressure washing techniques to your region's challenges and considering your property's maintenance history, you can achieve a clean and well-kept exterior. Embrace the ability to keep your home looking pristine and protected from outdoor buildup when you pressure wash your house.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you considering pressure washing your home? Pressure washing can be an effective and efficient way to clean exterior surfaces like siding, decks, and driveways. However, before you rent a power washer or hire a professional, you likely have some questions.

1. How often to pressure wash my house in a humid region like Florida?

Living in a humid region can lead to more frequent power washing needs. In Florida, for instance, you should plan to power wash your home at least once a year. Additionally, it’s a good idea to schedule power washing after a hurricane or heavy rainstorm to remove any debris or dirt buildup. However, if you notice mold or mildew growth, you may need to power wash your home more often.

2. Can power washing damage delicate surfaces like wood or stucco?

Yes, power washing has the potential to damage delicate surfaces like wood and stucco. High-pressure water can strip paint, cause splintering, and create cracks. It’s essential to use the correct nozzle, pressure, and cleaning solution. It’s important to know when to use a lower pressure setting or avoid power washing altogether. If you’re not confident in your power washing skills, hiring a professional is the best way to avoid damaging your home.

3. Is it necessary to hire professionals for power washing, or can I do it myself?

Many homeowners would like to save money on home cleaning. It’s possible to power wash your home yourself, but hiring professionals is recommended. Professionals have experience with different surfaces and know how to use the correct pressure and cleaning solution. Additionally, they have access to commercial-grade equipment, which can make power washing more efficient. Lastly, a professional power wash can help improve your home’s curb appeal and increase its value.

4. Are there any eco-friendly alternatives to traditional power washing methods?

Yes, there are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pressure cleaning methods. Soft washing is a low-pressure alternative that is gentle on surfaces and uses a non-toxic and biodegradable solution to kill mold and mildew. However, it’s important to note that traditional power washing is still the most effective when it comes to removing tough stains and restoring surfaces.

5. Should you power wash house in the spring or fall?

In most regions of the USA, power washing is recommended in the spring time after snow melts or the rainy season has ended. This will prevent grow and debris from sitting on your house roof throughout the summer and fall.