How to Clean Exterior of House Like a Pro
How to Clean Exterior of House?
To clean the exterior of a house, it is recommended to use a mild detergent and water.
This will effectively remove dirt, stains, lichen, and moss, preventing damage to the property.
Before cleaning, it is important to sweep away cobwebs, leaves, and dirt to avoid spreading it over the walls.
Depending on the type of wall material, such as wood, brick, or stucco, different cleaning methods should be used.
For wooden walls, a gentle washing approach is recommended to avoid damaging the paint and wood.
Brick walls require low pressure cleaning with a specialized detergent to protect the walls and joints.
Stucco requires special care, and it is advised to test compatibility before cleaning.
High pressure cleaning should be avoided whenever possible.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean the exterior of your house and make it look warm and inviting.
Key Points:
- Use mild detergent and water to effectively clean the exterior of a house, preventing damage to the property
- Sweep away cobwebs, leaves, and dirt before cleaning to avoid spreading it over the walls
- Use different cleaning methods depending on the type of wall material (wood, brick, stucco)
- Gentle washing approach is recommended for wooden walls to avoid damaging paint and wood
- Brick walls require low pressure cleaning with a specialized detergent to protect walls and joints
- Stucco requires special care and compatibility testing before cleaning; avoid high pressure cleaning
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that using a combination of vinegar and water can effectively remove stains from the exterior of your house? Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, apply it to the stained area, scrub gently, and rinse with water for a spotless surface.
2. For those hard-to-reach areas, an effective and eco-friendly way to clean the exterior of your house is by attaching a soft-bristle brush or sponge to the end of a telescoping pole. This allows you to easily clean high walls, windows, and gutters without the need for ladders or scaffolding.
3. Are you struggling to remove stubborn algae or mold from your house’s exterior? Try using a solution of powdered oxygen bleach and warm water. Apply the mixture to the affected areas, wait for about 15 minutes, then rinse it off with water. This method is highly effective and won’t harm plants or landscaping nearby.
4. To effectively clean the exterior of your vinyl siding, a mixture of dish soap, warm water, and a soft-bristle brush or sponge will work wonders. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes as they can damage the surface of the vinyl.
5. Many people overlook the importance of cleaning their house’s exterior light fixtures. Just like any other outdoor surface, these fixtures can accumulate dirt and grime over time. A mixture of warm water and mild soap can easily clean them, resulting in brighter and more efficient lighting around your house.
Recommended Cleaning Solution For Exterior Walls
When it comes to cleaning the exterior walls of a house, using a mild detergent and water is highly recommended. This combination is effective in removing dirt, stains, lichen, and moss that may have accumulated over time. By regularly cleaning the exterior walls, you can prevent the buildup of grime and ensure the longevity of your property.
Before applying any cleaning solution, it is important to sweep away cobwebs, leaves, and dirt from the walls. This step is crucial as it prevents the dirt from being spread further when you start washing. Using a broom or soft brush, carefully remove any debris that may have collected on the walls.
Once the walls are free from loose dirt and debris, you can proceed to clean them using the mild detergent and water mixture. This solution can be easily prepared by mixing regular household detergent with water in a bucket. Mix until the detergent is fully dissolved.
Preparing The Exterior Walls For Painting
If you are planning to repaint your house, cleaning the exterior walls beforehand is crucial. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and provides the best coverage and protection. By removing dirt, dust, and grime, you create a clean canvas for the fresh paint to adhere to.
To prepare the walls for painting, follow these steps:
- Sweep away any loose debris
- Wash the walls using a mild detergent and water mixture
- Consider using a sponge or soft cloth to gently scrub stubborn stains or marks
- Rinse the walls thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue from the cleaning solution
After cleaning, it is important to allow the walls to dry completely before applying any paint. This ensures proper adhesion and achieves the desired finish. It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before beginning the painting process.
Proper Cleaning Methods For Wooden Exterior Walls
Wooden exterior walls require special care when cleaning to prevent damage to the paint and wood surface. Using a gentle washing approach is recommended to ensure that the wood is not stripped or warped.
To clean wooden exterior walls:
- Start by sweeping away any loose debris from the surface. This prevents dirt from scratching the wood when you start washing.
- Next, prepare a mild detergent and water solution, following the same proportions mentioned earlier.
- Using a soft brush or sponge, gently scrub the walls in a circular motion. Avoid using abrasive brushes or harsh cleaning agents that can damage the wood or strip away the paint.
- After scrubbing, rinse the walls thoroughly with clean water to remove the cleaning solution. Be sure to remove all traces of detergent to prevent any residue from affecting the paint or wood surface.
Remember to take special care when cleaning wooden exterior walls to maintain their appearance and durability.
Special Care For Cleaning Brick Walls
Brick walls require low-pressure cleaning and a specialized detergent to protect the walls and joints. Using high-pressure cleaning methods can cause damage to the bricks and weaken their integrity.
When cleaning brick walls, it is important to use a low-pressure cleaner or a garden hose with a nozzle attachment that provides a gentle spray. This ensures that the force of the water does not erode the mortar or damage the bricks.
In addition to the low-pressure cleaning method, using a specialized brick cleaner is recommended. These cleaners are formulated specifically for brick surfaces and can effectively remove dirt, stains, and algae without causing damage.
Before applying the brick cleaner, it is advisable to wet the wall with water using the low-pressure hose or cleaner. This helps saturate the brick and prevent the cleaning solution from penetrating too deeply. When applying the brick cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a soft brush to scrub the surface, if necessary. Afterwards, thoroughly rinse the wall with water, ensuring that all traces of the cleaning solution are removed.
Cleaning Stucco: Testing And Precautions
Cleaning stucco walls requires special care and attention. Stucco is a delicate material, and improper cleaning techniques can cause damage, including discoloration and cracking. Before cleaning the entire stucco surface, it is advised to test the compatibility of the cleaning solution and method in a less visible spot.
To clean stucco, start by preparing a mild detergent and water solution as mentioned earlier. Apply the solution to a small area of the stucco using a sponge or soft cloth. Gently scrub the surface to remove dirt and grime, being careful not to apply too much pressure.
After cleaning a test area, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any residue from the cleaning solution. Check the stucco for any adverse reactions, such as discoloration or damage. If no negative effects are observed, you can proceed to clean the rest of the stucco surface using the same method.
It is important to avoid using abrasive brushes, harsh cleaning agents, or high-pressure cleaning methods when cleaning stucco. These can cause irreversible damage to the stucco and compromise its integrity.
Cleaning Siding Without A Pressure Washer
Cleaning siding without a pressure washer is not only possible but also a safer and more effective method. Pressure washers can be powerful and may cause damage to the siding if misused.
To clean siding without a pressure washer, you will need a few tools and supplies, including:
- A brush
- Trisodium phosphate (TSP)
- A bucket
- A hose
- Water
- A ladder
- Elbow grease
While this method may require more effort, it provides better results and reduces the risk of damage to the siding.
Here’s how you can clean siding without a pressure washer:
- Inspect the siding for any damages or loose sections. If repairs are needed, address them before cleaning.
- Use a stiff wire brush to remove large debris or stubborn stains from the surface. This will make the cleaning process easier.
- Prepare a solution of TSP and water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Dip the brush into the solution and scrub the siding in small sections, working from the bottom up. Apply the solution liberally and scrub vigorously to remove grime and dirt.
- Rinse each section of the siding with a hose, using a downward motion to avoid water getting behind the siding, which could lead to damage or rot.
- Repeat the cleaning process on each section of the wall, ensuring that all dirt and residue are removed.
By following these steps and taking the time to properly clean the exterior of your house, you can restore its appearance and ensure its long-term durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean the outside of your house walls?
To clean the outside of your house walls, start by diluting a mild detergent that is specifically suitable for the material and existing paint on your walls in water. Then, using a brush, gently scrub away any dirt or stains that are present. Another effective method is to utilize a low-pressure cleaning system. Finally, make sure to thoroughly rinse the exterior walls with clean water to eliminate any remaining dirt or detergent.
How do you clean the outside of your house without pressure washing?
Another effective method of cleaning the exterior of your house without pressure washing involves a mixture of vinegar and water. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and water, then spray and scrub the siding with a soft-bristled brush. This natural solution is both eco-friendly and cost-effective, and the acidity of the vinegar helps eliminate dirt and grime effectively. Additionally, for more stubborn stains, you can add a small amount of dish soap to the mixture to enhance its cleaning power.
Alternatively, a solution of oxygen bleach and water can be used to clean the outside of your house without pressure washing. Mix the oxygen bleach with water as per the instructions on the product, then apply the solution to the siding using a sponge or brush. Allow it to sit for some time to let the cleaner work its magic, and then scrub the siding gently with a brush. Oxygen bleach is a safe and non-toxic alternative to chlorine bleach, making it suitable for various types of siding materials while effectively removing dirt, mildew, and stains.
How do you clean outside areas?
In addition to sweeping, you can also mop the outside areas to keep them clean. Mix a mild detergent with warm water and use a long-handled mop to scrub away any stains or dirt. Ensure that you rinse off any soap residue thoroughly to prevent slippery surfaces. Regularly cleaning the outside areas will help maintain their appearance and ensure a safe and pleasant space for outdoor activities.
How do you clean outside walls without removing paint?
To clean outside walls without removing paint, you can use a mixture of warm water and mild soap. Dilute a small amount of mild soap, such as dish detergent, in a bucket of warm water. With a soft sponge or cloth, gently scrub the walls in a circular motion to remove dirt and stains. Rinse off the soap residue with clean water and allow the walls to air dry. This method should effectively clean the walls without causing any damage to the paint.