You might be surprised to hear that pressure washing does NOT remove mold and mildew, unless it’s done a certain way.
I’ve encountered a question that pops up more often than not: Can pressure washing truly remove mold and mildew?
The short answer is yes, it’s possible. But there’s a bit more to the story that I think will really shine some light on the subject for you. Let’s dive into a quick story that really encapsulates what works, what doesn’t, and why the difference matters more than you might think.
The Tale of Annual Cleaning (That Does NOT Work)
I have a good friend who took up the annual chore of pressure washing his mom’s house.
Using a standard pressure washer picked up from a local hardware store, he’d tackle the job, especially focusing on the sides of the house that missed out on the sun’s natural cleaning power. Despite his efforts, the black and gray mold, along with some green organic growth, always found its way back every single year!
Then, a couple of years ago, my friend found himself strapped for time and asked us to take over the cleaning task. We happily stepped in. The results were beyond what he had come to expect…
Fast forward a year, and he’s on the phone with me, puzzled about why, for the first time, the usual suspects of mold and mildew hadn’t made their annual appearance. He asked, “What did you put on the house? Did you guys use some kind of special protector?”
The Soft Wash Method: Our Secret Sauce
Here’s where I let him in on our not-so-secret approach: the soft wash method.
Unlike the high-pressure blast most people associate with getting rid of stubborn grime, we use a gentler touch. High pressure can damage siding, cause condensation in windows, and even lead to oxidation. Instead, we focus on just the right amount of pressure, complemented by a special mix of soap that targets and kills mold and mildew.
This approach doesn’t just clean, it addresses the root of the problem, significantly slowing down the return of unwanted growths.
To his surprise, we didn’t treat it for prevention. We just killed the growth, which he thought he did when he was pressure washing. To the naked eye, the growth does appear to be gone. But water doesn’t kill it, even if you use high pressure.
Where Does Mold and Mildew Like to Hang Out?
Mold and mildew can show up anywhere from your siding to your driveway.
We also find they do have a fondness for gutters and soffits, where gray and black buildup is a common sight.
If you do a quick check of these areas, especially if they haven’t been cleaned recently, you will likely notice the presence of these unwelcome guests.
You’d be surprised how white your gutters and soffits will look after a professional cleaning. They slowly turn gray from the organic growth, which makes it difficult to notice because it changes slowly over time.
Understanding Mold: Characteristics and Identification
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments and can spread quickly through the production of spores. These spores can be airborne, making it easy for mold to establish itself on various surfaces. Mold typically appears as patchy, fuzzy, or slimy layers, varying in color from black, green, red, or even blue.
On the exterior of houses, mold commonly finds its place in shaded, damp areas where sunlight is scarce and moisture is prevalent. It’s not just an eyesore; mold can degrade building materials over time, contributing to structural damage.
Recognizing Mildew: Appearance and Traits
Mildew is another type of fungus closely related to mold, often mistaken for its fungal cousin due to their similar habitats and appearances. However, mildew primarily affects flat surfaces, appearing as a powdery or downy layer. Its colors range from white to yellow and eventually turn brown or black as it progresses. Mildew is frequently found on organic materials outside the house, like damp siding, and is particularly notorious for residing on painted surfaces and in corners where moisture accumulates.
The Importance of Removing Mold and Mildew
Eliminating mold and mildew from the exterior of your house is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, both can significantly detract from your home’s aesthetic appeal, leading to a neglected appearance that can decrease property value.
More importantly, they pose health risks; while not all mold is toxic, certain types can produce allergens and irritants that may affect respiratory health.
Removing mold and mildew not only improves your home’s appearance but also contributes to a healthier living environment and the longevity of your home’s materials.
How Often Should You Wash?
This question doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It largely depends on your home’s environment.
Do you have a lake, pond, river, or any type of water nearby? How much rainfall do you get? The general climate can play significant roles in how often you’ll need to wash.
Not to mention regular dirt and grime. Do you get wind and dust in your area?
As a rule of thumb, we suggest every one to two years, but this can vary. For example, my own house, with its dark siding and rural setting, gets a wash twice a year to keep it looking its best.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
If you’re facing a battle against mold and mildew or just want to keep your home looking its best, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether you’re after tips, advice, or professional cleaning services, we at Premier Power Wash are here to help. Cleaning your home’s exterior or windows is just a call away, and we’re always ready to answer your questions and lend a hand.
Remember, tackling mold and mildew isn’t just about the pressure—it’s about the approach. With the right technique and solutions, you can not only clean but also prevent future growths, keeping your home looking pristine year after year.
Take care and happy cleaning!