Why Exterior Cleaning Maintenance Is So Important

There are three really important reasons to keep up with exterior cleaning maintenance. 

  • To keep up with or enhance Curb Appeal
  • To protect, and prolong building materials.
  • To keep up with or raise property value.

Unfortunately, with out preventive exterior cleaning maintenance. Organic growths can cause damage to building materials quicker then most would think.  The most common types of organic growth we see when pressure washing around Western PA are Algae, Moss, and Lichen. These forms of organic growth can be easily treated before the problem gets to bad by basic soft washing. Soft washing is where a technician typically uses a pressure washer or other pump equipment to clean with low water pressure and high water volume. Soaps and detergents do most of the heavy work to act as an algicide, and clean building materials of surface debris. This way the customer can get their home cleaned efficiently without damage being caused by to much pressure.  While soft washing is a safe way to clean, the home owner should still always shut off outside electric outlets, and the company doing the exterior cleaning should utilize property protection protocols like taping of  electric outlets, and wooden doors .

What Can Algae Growing For To Long On A Homes Building Materials Do?

  1. Aesthetic Damage: Algae, moss, and lichen can create unsightly stains and discoloration on surfaces such as roofs, walls, and pathways, detracting from the overall appearance of the home.

  2. Structural Damage: Over time, the growth of these organisms can lead to the deterioration of building materials. Moss and algae can retain moisture, which may promote rotting or decay of wood, shingles, and other organic materials. This can compromise the structural integrity of the home.

  3. Water Damage: The accumulation of moisture from algae, moss, and lichen can lead to water damage. This may include leaks in roofs or walls, which can result in water infiltration and potential mold growth inside the home.

  4. Reduced Lifespan: Building materials that are continually exposed to algae, moss, and lichen growth may experience a shortened lifespan due to accelerated degradation. This could necessitate premature repairs or replacements, leading to increased maintenance costs for the homeowner.

  5. Safety Concerns: Algae and moss can make surfaces slippery when wet, increasing the risk of slips and falls, particularly on pathways, stairs, and decks.

To prevent these issues, it’s essential to regularly inspect and maintain the exterior of the home, including cleaning surfaces to remove algae, moss, and lichen buildup, and addressing any underlying moisture issues that may be contributing to their growth. Additionally, applying protective coatings or treatments can help inhibit the growth of these organisms and prolong the lifespan of building materials. 

I also want to add that Travis Kings Pressure Washing services the Greater Pittsburgh Area. Including pressure washing companies near O’ Hara Township PA, and pressure washing near Cranberry PA. If you have any questions and would like a free estimate on a project. Please dont hesitate to give us a call. 

How Preventive Cleaning Maintenance Can Help Identify Underlaying Issues. 

Hiring a knowledgeable company can often help a homeowner identify underlying issues. One such case could be efflorescence or lime scale. 

Here are some efflorescing salts  associated with a number of building materials, including:

  • Calcium sulfate: An efflorescing salt source commonly found in brick
  • Sodium sulfate: Often seen in cement-brick reactions
  • Potassium sulfate: Noticeable in many cement-brick reactions
  • Calcium carbonate: May be discovered in mortar or concrete backing
  • Sodium carbonate: Frequently seen in mortar
  • Potassium carbonate: Like sodium carbonate, commonly found in mortar
  • Vanadyl sulfate: Usually found in brick
  • Manganese oxide: Often present in brick

You often see deposits like this on retaining walls. When the moisture comes out of the masonry, it pushes the minerals out. leaving the solids behind on the face of the block. This can happen sometimes due to just saturation and evaporation. Some times it can indicate a water problem however. Fixing problems like this early on can help not only the cosmetics, but in some cases structural integrity. 

Besides organic growth potentially leading to staining, mold, rot, or spread of bio film. Or being able to identify underlaying issues that could potentially turn into big problems. There are many other benefits to exterior cleaning maintenance. If you would like to learn more, please feel free to call Travis Kings Pressure Washing. Or fill out the form below. Thank you for reading, and don’t forget to eat your wheaties kids

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