What this covers
Pressure washing removes dirt, algae, mildew and grime from the outside of a home. The pressure and the cleaner are matched to the surface: soft washing with a cleaning solution for siding, roofs and painted wood, higher pressure for concrete and stone. Plants, windows and outlets are protected, and surfaces to be painted or stained are washed first and allowed to dry.
When to call
- Green or black streaks on siding, a roof or a fence.
- A driveway, walkway or patio darkened by grime or oil.
- Preparation before exterior painting or deck staining.
What to expect
- Assess and protectSurfaces are checked and plants, windows, lights and outlets are covered.
- Apply cleanerA cleaning solution suited to the surface is applied and given time to work.
- WashSoft wash or pressure wash as the surface requires, working so water does not drive behind siding or under shingles.
- Rinse and checkEverything is rinsed, coverings removed, and the result checked with you.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Can pressure washing damage siding?
Yes, if the pressure is too high or the wand is pointed upward into the laps. Siding is soft washed at low pressure for that reason.
Should a roof be pressure washed?
No. Roofs are soft washed with a solution and rinsed at low pressure. High pressure strips granules and shortens the roof's life.
Does it remove oil stains?
Degreasers and hot water lift most oil from concrete. Old, deep stains lighten but may not vanish.
Related: Exterior painting · Deck staining · Fence staining · All painting and wall finishes
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.

