Seven Areas of Concern that Professional Power Washers Should Address
You have booked your homes soft wash service and are looking forward to a clean exterior free from grime and a major boost to your homes curb appeal. Or maybe you want the HOA off your back.
It is vital that the company you hire attempts to mitigate any potential damage to your home before spraying any detergents and water.
1. Electrical Outlets and Outdoor Electronics
Sure, every outdoor outlet is supposed to be waterproof; they often have rubber gaskets and spring-loaded flip covers to keep moisture out. Newer style outlets are enclosed in a plastic shroud. However, time and again, we see that after only a few years, these weatherproofing measures wear out or are not properly sealed where they attach to the siding. Professional pressure washers should take care to tape up these outlets to prevent water and/or chemical intrusion. Water can trip GFCI breakers or outlets, but worse, the chemical additives to common detergents can cause rapid corrosion if combined with electricity.
Internet boxes are notorious for improper weatherproofing, especially at the rear panel, which is rarely sealed. Again, taping to prevent water from running into the box is essential.
2. Keyholes
The detergent most often used in soft washing is very effective because it is an oxidizer. It kills mold, mildew, and algae by bursting cellular walls. This oxidizing effect can also cause corrosion if not properly handled and thoroughly rinsed. Key holes are susceptible because the internal components are difficult to rinse. As such, covering every keyhole at your property should be standard practice.
3. Landscaping
House washing detergents are very diluted making it very easy to protect your plants, shrubs, and flowers. A thorough rinse before washing the siding pre-wets the plants to prevent detergents from sticking to leaves and waters the roots making them less “thirsty” In addition, a thorough rinse after washing eliminates any overspray that may have landed on them.
Most residential plants are hardy enough to be unaffected by the soft wash process; however, roses and flowering shrubs can be more susceptible, especially in high temperatures. In these instances, a neutralizer can be applied to mitigate risks.
4. Loose Siding, Window Seals, Door Thresholds, and Pet Doors
It may seem obvious that a qualified pressure washer would avoid direct spray into these areas or address them before starting washing; however, during your initial walk around, your technician should be looking for these areas to make notes and to bring them to your attention.
6. Oxidation
Oxidation occurs on all types of siding. The suns UV Rays break down the surface of siding and can cause it to appear dull and even feel “chalky”. In severe cases, soft washing can slightly disturb oxidation, leaving an uneven finish. A professional technician should check for oxidation before washing and notify the homeowner to set proper expectations. One of the benefits of soft washing is that the risk of disturbing oxidation is minimized, and it is much safer than “high” pressure washing or power washing, which leaves wand marks often referred to as “Zorro” marks.
Final Thoughts
Soft washing is a valuable service, but to be safe and effective, it requires attention to property protection and great awareness of areas that are susceptible to potential damage. Ask general questions of any company you intend to hire regarding the precautions they take to protect your home. You will be grateful you did!
Need help choosing the right soft washing service in NOVA? Reach out for a no-pressure consultation or get your free, instant quote today.