The DIY home improvement trend continues to grow as homeowners look for ways to save money and take pride in maintaining their properties. While many projects are well-suited for enthusiastic homeowners, exterior house washing presents unique challenges and risks that many don't anticipate.
What seems like a straightforward task—spraying water at high pressure to remove dirt and grime—can actually lead to costly damage and frustrating repairs when done incorrectly. At Cates Property Services, we've been providing professional pressure washing services since 1997, and we've seen firsthand the consequences of DIY house washing gone wrong.
Understanding Pressure Levels: The Science Behind the Spray
Professional pressure washing equipment and techniques operate on a spectrum, with significant differences between high-pressure, low-pressure, and soft washing applications. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for protecting your home's exterior.
When comparing pressure levels:
- Standard consumer pressure washers typically produce 1,300-2,800 PSI (pounds per square inch)
- Professional equipment can range from gentle 500 PSI soft washing systems to 4,000+ PSI industrial-grade machines
- The appropriate pressure depends entirely on the surface material and condition
The problem isn't necessarily the equipment itself, but rather knowing when and how to apply different pressure levels to various surfaces. Professionals understand that what works for concrete might severely damage vinyl siding or roof shingles.
Common DIY Mistakes and Their Consequences
Without proper training and equipment, DIY house washing often leads to expensive problems. Here are some of the most common issues we see:
Vinyl Siding Damage
Vinyl siding requires gentle cleaning with appropriate techniques. High-pressure washing can cause:
- Water intrusion behind siding panels, leading to mold and rot
- Cracking or splitting of vinyl sections
- Dislodged panels that require professional reinstallation
- Fading or stripping of color from the surface
Window and Door Seal Damage
The areas around windows and doors are particularly vulnerable to pressure washing damage:
- Water forced past weatherstripping and seals
- Interior water damage to walls, flooring, and window frames
- Broken window seals in double-pane windows, causing fogging between glass panes
- Compromised energy efficiency due to damaged seals
Surface Etching and Erosion
High-pressure water acts like a cutting tool on softer surfaces:
- Etching patterns into concrete surfaces
- Erosion of mortar between bricks
- Splintering and gouging of wooden decks and fences
- Stripping away protective coatings and sealants
Material-Specific Considerations
Different exterior materials require specialized approaches to cleaning. Here's why professionals like Cates Property Services adjust their techniques for each surface:
Vinyl and Aluminum Siding
These common home exteriors are particularly susceptible to damage. We use low-pressure washing with specialized cleaning solutions that remove dirt, mold, and mildew without forcing water behind panels. As we note on our website, in a lot of cases a better job is done and no chance of damage with low pressure. Especially on vinyl siding and insulated windows.
Brick and Stone
While these materials seem sturdy, mortar joints can deteriorate under high pressure. Our approach includes:
- Acid-based products designed specifically for brick cleaning
- Appropriate pressure levels that clean without eroding mortar
- Techniques that prevent water intrusion into the structure
Roofing Materials
Roof cleaning requires extreme caution. We're certified to perform no pressure roof cleaning to remove those ugly black mold and mildew stains on shingle roofs and add years of life to your roof without causing damage by pressure washing. High-pressure washing on roofs can:
- Dislodge or damage shingles
- Void manufacturer warranties
- Reduce the lifespan of roofing materials
- Create leaks and water damage
The Professional Approach: Soft Washing Explained
Professional exterior cleaners like Cates Property Services often utilize a technique called "soft washing" for delicate surfaces. This approach represents a fundamental shift from traditional pressure washing:
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing uses low-pressure water delivery (similar to a garden hose) combined with specialized, biodegradable cleaning solutions that do the heavy lifting instead of water pressure. The solutions kill mold, mildew, algae, and bacteria while gentle rinsing removes the residue.
Benefits of Professional Soft Washing
- Longer-lasting results (kills organisms at the root rather than just rinsing them away)
- Gentle on all exterior surfaces, including vinyl, brick, and roofing
- Reaches areas that high-pressure washing can't safely clean
- Prevents moisture intrusion that leads to more significant problems
One of our customers, Wade Phillips from Kingsport, TN, highlights our comprehensive approach: "We contacted Cates Pressure Washing to give us a price on pressure washing our house, cleaning the concrete and sealing the concrete. They showed up exactly when they said they would and we were pleased with their price and courteous attitude. They showed up to do the work as scheduled and finished all work to our complete satisfaction."
Expertise with Different Exterior Materials
Years of experience have taught us that every cleaning situation requires an assessment based on:
- Material composition and condition
- Age and fragility of the surface
- Type of contaminants (dirt, mold, mildew, algae)
- Environmental considerations
This expertise allows us to choose the correct:
- Pressure level for each surface
- Water temperature (hot vs. cold)
- Cleaning solution formulation
- Application technique
As the Wilson family of Jonesborough, TN noted: "He takes the time to explain what he's going to do and what cleaning products he uses. We like that he follows up the next day after completion to make sure we're completely satisfied."
Environmental and Health Considerations
Professional exterior cleaning also addresses environmental and health concerns:
- Proper runoff management to protect landscaping and water sources
- Safe, appropriate cleaning solutions for the specific job
- Knowledge of local environmental regulations
- Protection of surrounding plants, animals, and property
The Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Services
While DIY house washing might seem cost-effective initially, consider the potential expenses:
- Equipment rental or purchase costs
- Cleaning solution expenses
- Time investment (often 1-2 full days for a novice)
- Risk of repair costs for damaged siding, windows, or landscaping
- Shorter-lasting results requiring more frequent cleaning
Professional services provide:
- Proper equipment and techniques for each surface
- Experienced technicians trained to avoid damage
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Lasting results that extend the life of your exterior surfaces
- Our 100% satisfaction guarantee
Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment
Your home is likely your most significant investment, and its exterior provides crucial protection against the elements. While DIY house washing might seem straightforward, the risks to your property often outweigh the potential savings.
Professional services like Cates Property Services bring decades of experience, proper equipment, and specialized techniques to ensure your home's exterior is cleaned safely and effectively. We understand the unique needs of homes in Asheville, NC, Bristol, TN, Elizabethton, TN, Johnson City, TN, Kingsport, TN, and surrounding areas.
As Michael Coe shared in his review: "Excellent work! Went above and beyond. Everything sparkles! Super thrilled!"
Don't risk damage to your home's exterior with DIY pressure washing. Contact Cates Property Services today at (423) 557-5605 for a free estimate and experience the professional difference.