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Writer's pictureThomas McGowan

The Basics of a House Wash: What It Cleans and What It Doesn’t


Maintaining the exterior of your home is essential for preserving its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. One of the most effective ways to keep your house looking fresh and clean is through a basic house wash. This process involves using water, cleaning agents, and sometimes pressure washing to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the exterior surfaces of your home, including the exterior of gutters, fascia trim, soffits, and siding. A basic house wash does not include washing the roof. Blue Tide Softwash offers Roof washing as a seperate service. Let's delve into what a basic house wash entails, what it cleans, and what it doesn't.


What a Basic House Wash Cleans

1. Dirt and Dust:

  • Over time, dirt and dust accumulate on the exterior surfaces of your house, making it look dull and dirty. A house wash effectively removes these particles, restoring the brightness of your home’s exterior.


2. Mildew and Mold:

  • Humid and damp conditions can lead to the growth of mildew and mold on the exterior walls, especially in shaded areas. These not only look unsightly but can also pose health risks. A house wash can help remove these growths, improving the appearance and safety of your home.



3. Algae:

  • Algae can thrive on various exterior surfaces, especially in moist environments. They often appear as greenish-black streaks on your siding or roof. A house wash can effectively eliminate algae, preventing potential damage and keeping your home looking clean.


4. Pollutants and Contaminants:

  • Airborne pollutants, such as car exhaust and industrial emissions, can settle on your home's exterior, leading to staining and discoloration. A house wash can help remove these pollutants, enhancing the overall appearance of your property.


5. Cobwebs and Insects:

  • Cobwebs and insect nests can build up in the corners and crevices of your home's exterior. A house wash can dislodge these, making your home look more inviting and reducing the presence of pests.


What a Basic House Wash Doesn’t Clean

1. Stubborn Stains:

  • While a house wash can remove many types of dirt and grime, it may not be effective against stubborn stains, such as rust, oil, or paint splatters. These may require specialized cleaning solutions or techniques.


2. Red Clay Stains

  • While the surface dirt of red clay can be removed, the underlying stains may remain with a basic house wash. These stains can sometimes be removed through other methods for an additional cost.


3. Paint or Siding Damage:

  • A house wash cannot repair damaged paint or siding. If your home's exterior has peeling paint, cracks, or other forms of damage, these issues will need to be addressed separately, possibly through repainting or repairs. This also includes oxidation on paint or vinyl siding. Blue Tide Softwash offers oxidation removal as a separate service.


4. Windows and Glass Surfaces:

  • While some house washing services include window cleaning, a basic house wash typically focuses on the main exterior surfaces. For sparkling clean windows, you might need a specialized window cleaning service. Blue Tide Softwash offers spotless window cleaning as an additional service.


Conclusion

A basic house wash is an excellent way to maintain the exterior of your home, keeping it free from common contaminants like dirt, mildew, and algae. However, it’s important to recognize its limitations. For stubborn stains, deep-seated red clay staining, and oxidized surfaces, additional treatments may be necessary. Regular house washing, combined with other maintenance practices, will ensure your home remains beautiful and in good condition for years to come.


By understanding what a basic house wash can and cannot do, you can better plan your home maintenance activities and know when to call in specialized services for more challenging cleaning tasks.

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