When was the last time you had your home’s exterior professionally cleaned? If you’re not sure, you might be overdue for a wash. Over time, dirt, mold, mildew, and pollutants build up on your siding, driveway, and walkways, making your home look dull and worn. But how often should you actually pressure wash or soft wash your home?
The answer depends on several factors, including your home’s location, climate, and exterior materials. Below, we break down the ideal pressure washing schedule to keep your home looking fresh year-round.
Early Spring: The Best Time for a Refresh
After a long winter, your home’s exterior has likely taken a beating from snow, ice, and debris. That’s why early spring is the perfect time for a professional soft wash or pressure wash. Cleaning away built-up grime now helps prevent long-term staining, mold growth, and weather-related damage—plus, it sets your home up for a season of curb appeal.
By scheduling your home’s exterior washing in the spring, you can:
✔️ Remove dirt, salt, and grime left behind by winter storms
✔️ Prevent mold and mildew from taking hold as humidity rises
✔️ Get your home looking fresh for outdoor gatherings and warm-weather curb appeal
If you’re considering an exterior cleaning, now is the best time to get it done before the summer heat sets in and you want to enjoy your exterior space with family and friends!
General Rule of Thumb: Once a Year
For most homes, a professional exterior cleaning once a year is enough to maintain its appearance and prevent damage. Annual power washing helps remove dirt, mold, and algae before they cause permanent stains or deterioration.
Factors That Affect How Often You Should Pressure Wash
1. Your Home’s Location (Especially on Long Island!)
Long Island’s unique mix of coastal air, tree-lined neighborhoods, and busy roadways means homes here are more prone to exterior buildup than in other regions. If you live on the North Shore or South Shore, salty sea air can leave a residue on siding and windows, while homes near wooded areas in Suffolk County may accumulate more pollen and organic debris.
Additionally, homes near parkways, high-traffic roads, or construction zones tend to collect more dirt and dust, requiring more frequent cleaning. If your home is near the water, whether it’s along the coast or near one of Long Island’s many inlets, it’s smart to schedule a pressure wash twice a year to combat mold, mildew, and salt buildup.
2. Weather & Climate on Long Island
Long Island experiences all four seasons, which means your home is exposed to a variety of conditions throughout the year:
- Harsh winters leave behind dirt, salt, and grime, making a spring power wash essential to refresh your home.
- Humid summers create the perfect conditions for mold, mildew, and algae to grow on siding, decks, and patios. A soft wash in mid-summer can help prevent buildup.
- Fall leaves and debris often clog gutters and stain driveways and walkways, making a late-fall pressure wash a great way to prep for winter.
If your home is surrounded by trees, near the coastline, or in a high-humidity area, twice-a-year power washing is often the best way to keep it looking its best.
3. Exterior Surface Material
- Vinyl siding: Should be washed once a year, or twice a year in damp or wooded areas.
- Brick & stucco: These porous materials trap dirt and require annual or bi-annual exterior cleaning.
- Wood siding: Needs a gentler approach, such as soft washing every 1-2 years, to prevent damage.
Signs Your Home Needs an Exterior Cleaning Now
Even if it hasn’t been a full year since your last wash, here are some signs it’s time to schedule a washing service soon:
✅ Green or black streaks on siding (mold, mildew, algae buildup)
✅ A dull, faded, or dirty appearance on your home’s exterior
✅ Cobwebs, pollen, or bird droppings accumulating on surfaces
✅ Slippery or darkened walkways and patios (signs of grime and algae)
Refresh Your Home with an Easy Online Booking
A professional pressure wash or soft wash is one of the easiest ways to refresh your home’s exterior, protect your investment, and boost curb appeal. And the best part? You don’t even have to pick up the phone!
Use our online pricing and scheduling tool to get an instant quote and book your exterior cleaning service in minutes. It’s quick, hassle-free, and ensures your home stays in top shape year-round. Take back your time and let the Guys handle it!
Get Your Price & Schedule Now: www.washandwrapguys.com/service
Services
