How Pressure Washing Enhances the Curb Appeal for Residential Properties

Pressure washing enhances the curb appeal for residential properties because it efficiently removes dirt, dust, mould, stains, and other contaminants from outdoor surfaces. Curb appeal is the first impression a property makes on renters, possible buyers, and visitors. It’s what makes people come inside.

A house with a high curb appeal will have a high property value and attract more buyers. The curb appeal of each house will make a neighbourhood more attractive and foster a sense of pride among residents. Curb appeal can even evoke positive emotions in homeowners and visitors.

Neglected and poorly maintained properties decrease the sense of safety and security of a neighbourhood. On the other hand, properties with high curb appeal signal that homeowners deeply value their homes and surroundings.

What is pressure washing?

Pressure washing is a cleaning method that uses high-pressure water spray to eliminate dirt, grime, mould, mildew, and various contaminants from surfaces. It's highly effective to clean siding, driveways, sidewalks, fences, decks, and even vehicles.

How is pressure washing typically done?

1. Setup the equipment

The pressure washer has a motor or engine that powers a pump that pressurizes water to generate high-pressure spray. There are various nozzles or attachments for the pressure washer so one can adjust the spray pattern and the intensity.

2. Prepare the surface

Before starting the pressure washing process, it's necessary to remove obstacles, debris, and loose objects. The outdoor furniture, nearby plants, and delicate surfaces have to be covered or moved to avoid damage.

3. Apply detergent (optional)

According to the level of dirt and the type of surface that is being cleaned, a detergent or cleaning solution will be applied to the surface before pressure washing. The detergent will loosen dirt and stains.

4. Execute the pressure-washing

One has to hold the pressure washer wand or gun and direct the pressure onto the surface. You need to use a sweeping motion, start from the top, and work downward to ensure effective cleaning. Use various nozzles and spray settings according to the surface and level of grime.

5. Rinse

If you have used detergent, you need to run a rinse cycle to eliminate all remaining detergent and loosened debris. Use clean water, start from the top, and work downward. Let the surface dry naturally.

Why is pressure washing efficient?

Pressure washing is efficient for several reasons:

• The high-pressure water spray will dislodge and remove tough dirt, grime, and stains from surfaces
• Pressure washing is suitable for use on various surfaces: brick, wood, concrete, vinyl, and metal. It's efficient to clean driveways, sidewalks, decks, fences, siding, and more.
• Pressure washing cleans quickly a large area and saves time and effort.
• Typically, pressure washing only requires water. At times, you can use eco-friendly detergents and pressure washing is friendlier to the environment than chemical cleaning methods.
• Pressure washing prevents damage to surfaces caused by mould, mildew, and dirt buildup. Regular pressure washing maintenance will expand the durability of outdoor surfaces and avoid expensive repair work.

Benefits of pressure washing for curb appeal

The benefits of pressure washing for curb appeal are numerous:

Removal of dirt and grime

In time, dirt, dust, mould, mildew, and other debris will deposit on siding, sidewalks, driveways, and fences and alter their appearance. Pressure washing efficiently removes the unsightly elements and gives the surfaces a clean fresh look.

Resort the surface appearance

Pressure washing gives the surfaces their initial appearance as it removes layers of grime and discoloration. The restoration will make surfaces look new and well-kept and improve the entire aesthetic of a property.

Remove stains and discoloration

Difficult stains from oil spills, algae, rust, and other contaminants can alter the surface's appearance. Pressure washing will remove the stains and leave a uniform and clean surface that improves the curb appeal.

Prevent damage

Dirt, mould, mildew, and various contaminants will alter the appearance of surfaces and damage them in time. Pressure washing prevents deterioration as it removes harmful elements and expands the durability of outdoor surfaces like decks, driveways, and siding.

Improve safety

Moss, algae, and other growths on driveways, sidewalks, and decks can make the surfaces slippery and pose a safety hazard. Pressure washing removes the hazards and turns the outdoor areas into safe areas.

Increase the property value

A well-maintained outdoor area with clean and fresh-looking surfaces improves the appeal of a property. Possible buyers will be more interested in properties with high curb appeal. The selling price can grow and the property will sell fast.

Quick and affordable solution

Unlike manual scrubbing and chemical treatments, pressure washing is quicker and more affordable. You can clean vast areas, in less time and with fewer costs.

What outdoor surfaces to clean with pressure washing?

The outdoor surfaces to clean with pressure washing are:

• Siding

The siding of a house is commonly the largest exterior surface. Dirt, dust, pollen, mildew, and mould will deposit on the siding. Pressure washing will efficiently remove the contaminants and make the siding look like new. The curb appeal of a house will improve.

• Driveways

Oil stains, tire marks, dirt, and debris can collect on driveways and alter a property's curb appeal. You can use pressure washing to efficiently clean asphalt, concrete, and brick driveways and give them their original look.

• Sidewalks and pathways

Sidewalks and pathways leading to the house will become slippery and unsightly due to the accumulated dirt, algae, moss, and other contaminants. Pressure washing will remove the hazards, and improve the safety and appearance of the property.

• Decks and patios

Wooden decks and patios are prone to collect mould, algae, and mildew. They are also stained from pollen, debris, and leaves. Pressure washing cleans the surfaces and reveals the wood's natural beauty.

• Fences

Due to the elements and organic growth, fences become dirty and lose their colours in time. Pressure washing is adequate to clean various fence materials such as wood, metal, and vinyl. It will make the fences look attractive and fresh.

• Exterior walls and facades

Brick, stucco, stucco, and other exterior walls and facades of the house will benefit from pressure washing. After cleaning, the surfaces will look better than ever before and improve curb appeal.

• Gutters and downspouts

Leaves, debris, and mould can clog gutters and downspouts causing water damage that alters the property's appearance. Pressure washing can remove the blockages and restore the appearance and functionality of gutters and downspouts.

• Outdoor furniture and fixture

Outdoor furniture, mailboxes, light fixtures, and other fixtures can collect dirt and grime in time. Pressure washing removes the contaminants and makes them look nice, which also enhances the visual appeal of the property.

DIY or professional pressure washing? Which one to choose?

When it comes to pressure washing, homeowners have to decide between DIY jobs or professional services. Both options come with pros and cons and the choice has to be made according to budget, time, skill level, and complexity of the job.

DIY pressure washing

Pros

• DIY pressure washing is more affordable than professional pressure washing
• You have the flexibility to plan the pressure washing whenever suits you best. You don't need to coordinate with a company.
• You control the whole process, such as equipment, cleaning agents, and methods.
• DIY pressure washing can become a learning experience and you get to develop skills and feel good about personally taking care of your property.

Cons

• Purchasing or renting a pressure washer and additional equipment is expensive
• Incorrect use of pressure washing can cause injuries and property damage, especially when you don’t know how to handle the equipment.
• With little to no experience and professional training, you may not obtain good results. Additionally, you may cause serious damage to surfaces.
• DIY pressure washing can be time-consuming, especially if you have large or complex areas. Sometimes, you may have to do it in several sessions.

Professional pressure washing

Pros

• Professional pressure washing technicians have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to achieve excellent cleaning results, regardless of the size, complexity, or material of the surfaces.
• A professional job will spare you time as it's done quickly and efficiently. You will be able to focus on other activities while the professionals do their job.
• Professionals use commercial-grade equipment and specialized tools to obtain high-quality cleaning results.
• A respected company will follow strict safety protocols and regulations throughout the pressure washing job. The risk of injuries and damage to property is low when professionals perform pressure washing.

Cons

• Professional pressure washing services may be more expensive than DIY, especially if the project is vast or you need specialized services.
• You have to schedule the pressure washing service, which may not suit your needs. Good companies are flexible and work around your schedule, though.
• You don’t have control over the pressure washing procedures. Trustworthy companies are open and transparent and talk you through the whole pressure washing process.

The budget, time constraints, skill level, and complexity of the job weigh in when you need to choose between DIY and professional pressure washing. Even if DIY pressure washing can be cheap and give satisfactory results, why not enjoy the best cleaning results and allow professionals to do what they know best?

Maintenance tips to sustain curb appeal

Here are some maintenance tips to sustain curb appeal:

• Perform regular cleaning for siding, driveways, sidewalks, and fences
• Keep the lawn mowed, edged, and free of weeds. Trim bushes, hedges, and trees to have a tidy appearance.
• Plant colourful flowers, shrubs, and trees to improve your property's curb appeal
• Trim overgrown branches and foliage, prune bushes and trees. Pay attention to the shape and symmetry of plants.
• Regularly check out the exterior of the house. Repair or replace damaged roofing, siding, windows, and doors.
• Install outdoor lighting to improve safety and aesthetic appeal
• Remove clutter and useless items from the yard, porch, and driveway.
• Adjust the maintenance routine to the changing seasons. In the fall, clean gutters and downspouts and winterize outdoor features (water fountains, sprinkler systems, etc.).
• Prevent pest infestation
• Run regular inspections of your property to detect and promptly address any issues.