If you are noticing algae, mildew or dirt building up on your gutters, trim and home siding, you are in need of a house wash (softwash) service. In Central Virginia, most homes should be softwashed at least every 12-18 months to prevent build-up on the exterior. If you plan on softwashing your home, you should think carefully about scheduling window cleaning after pressure washing service.
Softwashing relies on the gentle cleaning power of detergent to do the work of killing organic material at its source and brightening your home’s surfaces. Power washing home siding can cause damage and should be avoided.
While house washing can make your entire home shine like new, softwashing is not a substitute for cleaning the outside of your windows. Some pressure washing contractors will present clean windows as an added benefit of a house washing service – we disagree. In our experience, even the most meticulous softwashing service is not a close substitute for a hand cleaning of your windows with mop and squeegee. In fact, a home softwashing service is the perfect time to wash the outside of your windows. There are several key reasons why the Softwash / Window Cleaning Combo is the most popular “1-2” punch for our client homeowners.
Eliminate streaks and residue
Softwashing uses cleaning agents that can dwell on your windows and dry, sometimes creating a foggy residue. Water can also drip down from the siding onto window glass, leaving dirty streaks after service. A proper outside window cleaning using a mop and squeegee method will make your windows look crystal clear by eliminating streaks and residue from the softwash.
Clean glass, sills, mullions and frames all at once
Window washing solution does not contain bleach or other chemicals known for killing mold and mildew, so even if your window cleaner wipes topical debris from nooks and crannies, any mold and mildew growth will not be addressed. Chemical cleaning of the areas around your window glass is one of the biggest benefits of softwashing, so the Softwash / Window Cleaning Combo has the dual benefit of clean frames and sills and sparkling clear window panes.
Groundwater can contribute to hardwater stains
Pressure washing normally uses an exterior hose bib on the property as a water source. Water from outdoor hose bibs typically contain more minerals than tap water (this is known as “hard water”), as hose bib water is usually not filtered the same as tap water. Minerals, like calcium and magnesium, present in hose water may dry on your glass and cause hard water spots that are difficult to remove. Window washing after your softwash service will help to clear away any minerals present on the glass. This prevents hard water stains down the road.
Overspray from pressure washing of hardscapes
Even if your contractor is not washing the entire home and just cleaning hardscapes like sidewalks, steps, entrances, and patios, the overspray from this work will probably get on your window glass, causing the same hard water stain risk mentioned above. Consider at least a partial outside window cleaning to touch up those areas that may be impacted by pressure washing overspray.
Hand window washing is best for removing softwashing streaks
Even if your pressure washing contractor thoroughly rinses away softwashing detergent, streaks or spotting can still occur. Getting up close to the glass for a hand washing of the windows is the easiest way to identify and eliminate these streaks. Spotless’ 5-step hand cleaning process ensures a thorough cleaning of all window surfaces. Learn more about about window cleaning considerations for your home here.
Softwashing + window cleaning produces a longer-lasting clean
The Softwash / Window Cleaning Combo produces a longer-lasting clean for your windows. Killing mold and mildew at their source and detailing the glass by hand ensures that dirt and debris will take longer to accumulate on your glass and window frames.
Maximize your home’s overall appearance
Nothing makes your whole home shine like a Softwash / Window Cleaning Combo. So while you’re going to the trouble of getting your house washed, you may as well create the maximum benefit for your entire property. Always request a window cleaning after pressure washing service.
Interested in creating a brighter day for your home’s exterior? Call us today at 804-231-0749 to get your free estimate.
