We can all agree that the weather in Houston can be hard on homes. Dirt, mould, algae and mildew can build up quickly when the air is humid, the sun is strong, there are a lot of airborne pollutants and rainstorms are common.

If you put off exterior maintenance, that buildup doesn’t just make things look bad, it can also shorten the lifespan of siding, roofing, paint and even structural materials.

One of the best ways to keep your property in good shape is to pressure wash it. But, many homeowners are unsure of how often they should do it, when it’s safest and which methods actually protect the home, instead of harming it..

Here’s Why Houston Homes Need to Be Cleaned More Often

House Washing Before & After Prssure Washing America Houston TX

Houston’s climate puts unique stress on homes. Moisture in the air speeds up the growth of mold and algae, and heat makes dirt stick to surfaces.

The weather in Houston is heavily affected by moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and, according to climate monitoring, high humidity and frequent rain make it easy for biological growth to happen on outside surfaces. This leaves a lot of Houston homeowners battling:

Mould, mildew and moss
Streaks of green algae
Leftover pollen
Air pollution
Mud splashes

Oxidation on painted surfaces

Residential Pressure washing in Houston is less about cleaning every now and then, and more about protecting your property throughout the year.

How Often Should You Use a Pressure Washer on Your House?

For most homes, pressure washing once a year is the best way to start. This stops buildup from happening and protects the property from damage over time. However, due to the climate in Houston, many homes need to be cleaned more often.

How Often is it Safe to Pressure Wash?

Pressure Washing America Technicians Performing Windows Cleaning

When done correctly and not too often, pressure washing is safe. But, over washing or using excessive pressure can cause serious damage, including:

Taking off paint
Erosion of wood
Mortar deterioration
Water behind the siding
Damage to the window seal

Safe cleaning intervals vary by surface. For example, siding, brick and concrete should be pressure washed every 12 months. However, roofs only need to be soft washed once every two to three years, and decking should be cleaned every one to two years.

For driveways and patios, it’s best to organise pressure washing once a year. Before cleaning again, you should check surfaces that are showing signs of wear, fading, cracking or peeling.

The Best Time of Year to Pressure Wash in Houston

Seasonal timing affects both effectiveness and safety, so it’s something to consider when you’re planning your pressure washing in Houston routine.

Spring is the best overall choice, as it’s the ideal time to get rid of pollen and dirt that’s built up throughout winter. It’s also the perfect time to get the property ready for outdoor living in the summer, and makes it look good from the street.

Plus, Houston’s moderate spring temperatures stop things from drying out too quickly. If not, fall is a good choice. It allows you to remove mold and storm debris from summer, and stops buildup before it gets cooler.

When to Get Your House Pressure Washed in Houston

If you see green or black streaks on your siding or dark patches under your gutters, your home may need pressure washing sooner than planned.

Stains on the outside after storms, mould or mildew smells, dingy or faded colour on the outside, spider webs or insect buildup, and slippery walkways are all signs it’s time to arrange a professional pressure wash. If you don’t pay attention to these signs, contaminants can get deeper into materials.

What Pressure Washing Products Are Safe to Use in Houston?

There are some parts of your home that can easily let water in or break, so avoid pressure washing these directly. Do not directly pressure wash:

Windows and window seals
Roof shingles, unless soft washing methods are being used
Electrical panels or outlets
Air conditioners
Painted wood up close
Stucco with cracks
Old mortar joints
What Should Never Be Pressure Washed Directly?

Advantages of Pressure Washing for Houston Real Estate

Pressure washing is one of the best and cheapest ways for homeowners to get their homes ready to sell, which is why it should be part of your home selling process. The benefits include:

Making the property look more attractive from the street.
Making the exterior look newer and brighter.
Creating a higher perceived property value.
Ensuring the property looks great in listing photos.
Garnering more interest from buyers, and doing so faster.

It’s easy to see why a lot of real estate agents believe that cleaning the outside of a house is non-negotiable before selling a property.

Ready to Pressure Wash Your Home in Houston?

Houston’s warm, humid and stormy weather makes pressure washing not just a cosmetic job, but also an important part of regular maintenance.

It’s not something you can ignore as a homeowner. To put it simply, most homes need to be pressure washed once a year. But, if there is a lot of moisture or shade, areas might need washing more often.

You can get the most out of pressure washing by scheduling cleaning in the spring or fall, using safe and approved cleaning solutions, and keeping exterior surfaces clean all year.

As pressure washing can be complicated, it’s a good idea to think about hiring a professional. Get in touch to find out more.