Let’s talk about house washing. It might not be the most glamorous topic, but trust us, it’s way more important than you think. House washing isn’t just about making your home look good – it protects your investment, your health, and can even boost your home’s value.

Did you know that mold and mildew growth, which house washing addresses, can cause serious health problems? According to the CDC, more than 75,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized every year with fungal infections. These infections can lead to respiratory issues and other complications.

In areas with humid climates, like Fort Wayne, the risk is even higher.

House washing also protects your home from costly repairs. A study in The Appraisal Journal found that up to 50% of bidders walk away once they find out about a mold infestation, even if it’s been treated.

And if you do need to address mold, the average cost of professional mold remediation is around $2,500-$5,000. That’s quite a lot, isn’t it?

Whether you want to remove stubborn stains, protect your home from harsh weather, or simply make your house the best-looking one on the block, professional power washing in Fort Wayne is the answer.

Let’s dive into the details of house washing, explore tips for different home styles, and help your home look its best while protecting it for years to come.

Why House Washing is Essential for Fort Wayne Homeowners

House washing is essential for homeowners in Fort Wayne. The city’s unique mix of home styles and unpredictable weather creates challenges that professional housewashing can easily solve. Here’s why it’s a smart investment:

Unmatched Curb Appeal & Property Value

A clean, well-maintained home exterior is instrumental in creating a positive first impression, and in the real estate market, that curb appeal directly translates to property value.

According to the National Association of Realtors, projects like power washing and paint touch-ups can increase a home’s selling price by up to $15,000! This highlights the significant return on investment that house washing can offer.

For homeowners in Fort Wayne, where the housing market can be competitive, maintaining an attractive exterior is key to standing out. Here’s a testament to how power washing can be a great investment for your home:

“Mark is always so enjoyable to speak with… M&D makes sure Olthof Homes provides a professional presentation of our model homes in Fort Wayne, IN. Highly recommended!”

– Satisfied Olthof Homes Customer

Fighting Fort Wayne’s Weather

Fort Wayne’s climate, characterized by its humid summers and cold winters, accelerates the wear and tear on home exteriors. Moisture, freezing temperatures, and sun exposure contribute to the degradation of siding and roof materials.

Regular house washing helps mitigate these effects by removing mold, mildew, algae, and salt residue, thereby extending the lifespan of these materials. This preventative maintenance can save homeowners a considerable amount in potential future repairs.

Cleaner Air for Healthier Families

Beyond the aesthetic and structural benefits, house washing significantly impacts the health and well-being of Fort Wayne residents. Outdoor allergens such as mold, mildew, and pollen can attach to home exteriors, affecting indoor air quality.

Regular washing of the home’s exterior surfaces removes these allergens, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergic reactions. For the roughly 647,729 Indiana adults living with asthma, as reported by the Indiana Department of Health, this aspect of house washing cannot be overlooked.

Long-Term Savings

When weighing the costs and benefits of regular house washing against the potential expenses associated with repairing structural damages due to neglect, homeowners can gain clear insight into the financial wisdom of maintaining their property’s exterior.

Here’s a comparative look at the average costs of house washing versus the repair costs for common structural damages caused by neglecting exterior maintenance.

Average Cost of House Washing

The cost of professional house washing varies depending on several factors, including the size of the home, the method used (pressure washing vs. soft washing), and the specific services required.

While every home is unique, there are several factors professional house washing companies like ours consider when determining the cost of cleaning your Fort Wayne home, including:

• Size of your home: Larger homes require more time, labor, and cleaning solutions.
• Specific cleaning needs: Addressing stubborn stains from mold, mildew, rust, or oxidation might require specialized methods and solutions.
• Type of siding: Delicate siding materials like wood or historic finishes may need gentler, soft washing techniques.
• Accessibility: Homes with multiple stories, complex rooflines, or challenging landscaping may require additional equipment or safety measures.

We Offer Free Personalized Estimates

The best way to get an accurate price for washing your Fort Wayne home is to schedule a free estimate! We’ll assess your home’s specific needs, discuss the best cleaning methods, and provide a clear, upfront quote.

Repair Cost of Structural Damages

The cost of repairing structural damage highlights the importance of preventative maintenance. Here’s what you might face if repairs are needed:

Siding Replacement

Neglected siding that becomes extensively damaged by mold, mildew, or algae requires complete replacement. The cost of replacing siding depends on the material but ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 or more for an average-sized home. For instance, vinyl siding, costs between $3 to $12 per square foot when factoring in the price of materials and labor.

Roof Repairs

The roof is particularly susceptible to damage from algae and moss growth. Minor roof repairs start around $150 to $400, but significant damage requiring roof replacement can quickly escalate to $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the size of the roof and the materials used.

Foundation Repairs

Water damage resulting from poor drainage or gutter overflow leads to foundation issues. Foundation repairs are particularly costly, ranging from $2,000 for minor repairs to over $10,000 for extensive problems requiring hydraulic piers.

Comparative Analysis

Considering the potential cost of neglecting your home’s exterior, the expense of regular house washing seems incredibly small by comparison. Here’s a look at how professional house washing stacks up against the price of common repairs caused by neglect:

• House Washing: $450 – $1,500 (average)
• Siding Replacement: $5,000 – $15,000
• Roof Repairs: $5,000 – $20,000
• Foundation Repairs $2,000 – $10,000+

Investing a few hundred dollars a year for professional cleaning is a tiny fraction of what you might spend if you ignore your home’s exterior. Spending $400 on house washing is less than 1% of the cost of even minor roof repairs.

Many homeowners echo this sentiment,  often surprised at how affordable professional house washing is compared to the potential repair costs down the line.

Pressure Washing vs. Soft Washing – What’s Right For You?

When it comes to keeping your home’s exterior clean, there are two main methods: pressure washing and soft washing. Both have their uses, but it’s crucial to understand their differences to choose the right one for your home.

What is Soft Washing?

Soft washing is a cleaning method that prioritizes protecting the surfaces of your home while effectively eliminating dirt, grime, and organic stains. Unlike high-pressure washing, which relies mostly on the force of water, soft washing combines low-pressure water with algaecide cleaners, a specialized cleaning solution.

How Soft Washing Works

1. Treating the Problem: Algaecide cleaners specifically designed to kill mold, mildew, algae, and bacteria are applied to the surface. These cleaners work their way into the problem areas, targeting the source of the stains.
2. Low-Pressure Rinse: After the cleaners have done their work, the surface is rinsed with low-pressure water to remove the residue and reveal a clean, sanitized surface.

Why Choose Soft Washing

• Protects Delicate Surfaces: Soft washing is the safest choice for roofs, siding (vinyl, wood, aluminum, etc.), painted surfaces, and other materials that could be damaged by high-pressure water.
• Long-Lasting Results: By killing organic growth at its source, soft washing provides longer-lasting results than simply blasting away the surface layer with high pressure.

Let’s Talk About Your Home!

Contact us today to discuss whether soft washing is the right solution for your Fort Wayne home!

What is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing harnesses the power of highly pressurized water to remove heavy stains, grime, and built-up contaminants from surfaces. It’s a deep-cleaning method that goes beyond what a regular garden hose can achieve.

How Pressure Washing Works

It may look simple, but pressure washing relies on several key pressure washer parts working together to create powerful cleaning results. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

1. The Pump: The heart of a pressure washer is a powerful pump (powered by gas or electricity) that pressurizes incoming water.
2. The Nozzle: Focuses the pressurized water into a concentrated stream. Different nozzles create various spray patterns (wide vs. focused) and adjust the overall force of the water. This allows pressure washing to be tailored for specific tasks:
   • Stubborn Stains: High pressure, combined with the right nozzle, effectively peels gum, oil, grease, and rust from hard surfaces like concrete.
   • General Cleaning: Even on more delicate surfaces like wood or brick. Specific nozzles can lower the pressure enough to remove heavy buildup (algae, moss, etc.) without causing damage.
3. PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): The measurement of the force the water exerts as it leaves the nozzle. Higher PSI means more cleaning power. However, it also carries a higher risk of damage to surfaces. Powerful pressure washers deliver water at pressures ranging from 1500 to 3500+ PSI.

Pre-Treatment Process

While pressure washing is powerful, optimal results often depend on pre-treating stains with specialized cleaning solutions. Specialized cleaning solutions target specific problems like algae, mold, rust, and grease. They break down stubborn grime before you pressure wash, making removal easier and safer for your surfaces.

Ideal Applications of Pressure Washing:

• Removing Stubborn Stains: High-pressure water, combined with the right nozzle, can effectively remove substances like gum, oil, grease, and rust from hard surfaces like concrete.
• Heavy Buildup: Pressure washing blasts away thick layers of dirt, algae, lichen, or moss from a variety of surfaces. While soft washing is often used to treat the underlying cause of these buildups, higher pressure is employed safely to remove what remains.
• Hard, Durable Surfaces: Pressure washing is best suited for concrete driveways, walkways, pavers, brick, decks, patios, and other sturdy outdoor structures.

A Note on Wood

While pressure washing CAN be used on some wood surfaces, it must be done with extreme caution. Expertise is required to select the right PSI, nozzle, and, often, specialized cleaning solutions.

For wood surfaces, soft washing is often a preferred pre-treatment, applying cleaners at low to medium pressure to kill mold, mildew, and algae. This makes subsequent pressure washing, if needed, safer and more effective for removing any remaining buildup.

Let’s Talk About Your Cleaning Needs!

Contact us today to discuss your Fort Wayne property and determine if pressure washing, combined with the right pre-treatment, is the best solution!

Understanding House Washing Challenges in Fort Wayne

Like any city, Fort Wayne presents homeowners with specific concerns when it comes to exterior cleaning. Understanding these challenges will help you choose the right house-washing method and protect the architectural integrity of your home.

Fort Wayne Homes Architecture

There’s a diverse array of architectural styles in Fort Wayne, from historic Craftsman bungalows to more contemporary builds. Here’s how this variety impacts your house-washing needs:

Older Homes (Pre-1960s)

These homes often feature wood siding, delicate trim, or unique masonry. Pressure washing, if used at all, requires extreme caution, and soft washing is generally a safer bet.

Vinyl-Sided Homes (Popular from the 1960s onward)

Vinyl is durable, but incorrect pressure settings or harsh chemicals can damage it. Professional services know the optimal techniques for various siding styles.

Stucco Homes

While beautiful, stucco is prone to cracking and staining. Improper pressure washing can force water into cracks, leading to internal damage. Specialized soft washing is usually a better solution.

Modern Homes

Newer homes may have pressure-washing-friendly materials, but delicate accents or mixed siding types still require a tailored approach.

KEEP IN MIND It’s vital to choose a house washing service experienced with your home’s specific architectural style. They’ll understand the best cleaning methods and the potential vulnerabilities of your home’s materials.

How Does Fort Wayne’s Climate Impact the Buildup of Dirt, Mold, and Mildew on Homes?

Fort Wayne’s weather changes with the seasons, and each season brings unique challenges to your home’s exterior. Understanding these weather patterns is key to knowing when and how often to schedule house washing for the best results.

Fort Wayne Climate

Spring

Spring in Fort Wayne can be wet and unpredictable, with frequent rain showers contributing to the growth of mold, mildew, and algae on exterior surfaces.

Address any build-up that occurs over the winter months during spring. Washing your house in late spring allows you to clear away winter grime and prepare your home’s exterior for the warmer months ahead.

It’s also a good time to clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage during heavy rains.

Summer

Summers are warm and humid, conditions that are perfect for the proliferation of mold and algae, especially on shaded areas of a home’s exterior.

Early summer is a good time to wash and remove any early growth of mold and algae. Doing so can prevent these organisms from embedding deeper into surfaces, making them harder to remove later on. Pressure washing during this season can also revive your home’s appearance for summer activities and gatherings.

Fall

Fall brings cooler temperatures and falling leaves, which can accumulate on roofs and in gutters, retaining moisture and potentially causing damage.

It’s wise to schedule a house wash in early fall to clear away any accumulations of dirt, leaves, and debris from your home’s exterior and drainage systems. This not only keeps your home looking its best but also prepares it for the coming winter by reducing the risk of ice dams and related issues.

Winter

Winters in Fort Wayne are harsh, with snow and ice putting stress on your home’s exterior. Ice buildup on siding and roofs, plus constant freezing and thawing, makes small cracks and damage much worse.

While house washing isn’t ideal during freezing temperatures, it’s important to address heavy salt and grime buildup if your home is near treated roads or sidewalks. Choose a milder winter day for this task to avoid freezing and potential damage to your home.

The Role of Humidity and Rain in Algae Growth

Algae thrive in moist, warm environments. High humidity and frequent rain create the perfect conditions for algae to flourish on various surfaces around homes, such as roofs, walls, and decks. Here’s how these weather conditions contribute to the problem:

• Moisture Accumulation: Algae require water to grow. High humidity and rain lead to increased moisture on surfaces, especially in shaded areas where the sun does not evaporate the moisture quickly. This persistent wetness provides algae with the necessary conditions to proliferate.
• Nutrient Runoff: Rain can carry with it airborne dirt and pollutants, which deposit nutrients on surfaces like roofs and siding. These nutrients feed the algae, further encouraging its growth.
• Optimal Growth Temperatures: Algae growth is most prolific when temperatures are warm but not too hot. Rain often brings cooler temperatures in hot climates, lowering the surface temperature of homes to a range that is more favorable for algae growth.

So, When is the Best Time to Do House Washing in Fort Wayne?

In Fort Wayne, late spring and early fall are the perfect times for house washing. The weather is usually mild, with temperatures above 45 degrees, so cleaning solutions work their best.

Plus, a spring cleaning prepares your home for summer’s humidity and storms, while a fall cleaning removes all that summer grime.

What Are the Most Common Types of Stains Homeowners Face in Fort Wayne?

Fort Wayne’s changing seasons and diverse urban and suburban landscapes present a variety of challenges. Let’s break down the most common stains and problems, and how to tackle them:

Mold, Algae, Mildew, Lichen

Mold, algae, mildew, and lichen are organic growths that thrive in Fort Wayne’s humid summers and damage exterior surfaces over time. They are often found on siding, roofs, and shaded areas of a home.

Bees Nests, Cobwebs, Dirt Daubers

Insects and spiders leave behind nests and webs. These don’t just look bad – they can cause bigger problems if left unaddressed. It’s important to safely remove nests and webs, especially those in eaves, under porches, and around windows. This keeps your home looking good and everyone safe.

Artillery Fungus or Shotgun mold

Artillery fungus (also known as shotgun mold), scientifically known as Sphaerobolus stellatus, is a type of wood-decaying fungus. It is notorious for its ability to launch spore masses as far as 20 feet.

Where Does Artillery Fungus Thrive?

This fungus loves to cling to various surfaces. You might spot it on:

• House siding
• Vehicles
• Plants
• Wood chip mulch
• Decaying logs
• Even animal dung

Spotting the Signs

Artillery fungus leaves behind telltale clues: small, brown spots (about 1/12 inch across) called peridioles or glebal masses. These spots are easily mistaken for tar, insects, or insect droppings.

When Does Artillery Fungus Strike?

This fungus loves cool, damp conditions. It thrives in areas with sunlight, moisture, and temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Artillery fungus is most active during the cooler, wetter seasons of spring and fall, making it hard to keep surfaces stain-free.

Road Salt

Road salt is used to manage ice and snow in winter. It accumulates on driveways, sidewalks, and the lower portions of a home’s exterior, leading to discoloration and potential damage. Regular washing in the spring removes salt residue, preventing long-term corrosion or deterioration of surfaces.

Graffiti

While graffiti is less common in residential areas, it is a concern for homes near commercial or public spaces. Prompt removal is key to preventing permanent damage. Specialized cleaning agents and techniques may be required to effectively remove paint without harming the exterior surface.

What Are the Key Fort Wayne Regulations for House Washing?

Like many cities, Fort Wayne has rules about power washing. These rules are especially important for businesses and focus on how to handle wastewater safely. Homeowners and businesses need to follow these rules to avoid fines and protect the environment.

While exact permits might vary, here are the main things to consider for power washing in Fort Wayne:

General Permits

• Business Licensing: Fort Wayne might require pressure/power washing services to hold a valid business license. Homeowners should verify this when hiring a service provider.
• Stormwater Runoff: Laws often regulate where wastewater from pressure washing can drain. Companies must have proper collection systems to prevent contaminated water from entering storm drains.

Specific Restrictions:

• Water Usage: During droughts, there may be temporary restrictions on water usage for activities like pressure washing.
• Noise Ordinances: Some areas within Fort Wayne may have noise restrictions, particularly for gas-powered pressure washers and during specific hours of the day (often early in the morning).
• Chemical Regulations: Local regulations might restrict certain chemicals used in cleaning solutions to protect waterways and groundwater.

Where to Find Information

Start with the city’s official website (https://www.cityoffortwayne.org/). Search for terms like “exterior cleaning permits” or “stormwater management regulations.” Other specific search terms are:

• “Local stormwater regulations in Fort Wayne, Indiana”
• “Fort Wayne business license requirements”
• “Environmental regulations in Fort Wayne”

Contact the city’s code enforcement department to clarify specific questions or issues not fully addressed online.

What’s the Best Way to Pressure Wash My Home’s Exterior in Fort Wayne?

Combat Fort Wayne’s weather-related buildup on your home’s exterior.  Here’s a quick look at the best ways to power wash different surfaces for optimal results.

Roof (Asphalt Shingles, Slate, Tile, Metal, Cedar Shake, TPO)

Soft washing is the only safe and recommended method for cleaning roofs of any type in Fort Wayne. Pressure washing on the roof can cause significant damage, leading to leaks and costly repairs.

Siding

Choosing the wrong cleaning method can damage your siding. Here’s a breakdown of how to clean different siding types safely and effectively in Fort Wayne:

Vinyl Siding

To clean different siding types safely and effectively in Fort Wayne, start with vinyl siding. Soft washing is the safest approach for vinyl. Use a low to medium-pressure setting only if necessary. A cleaning solution of algaecide, water, and surfactant will work, or you can find a store-bought vinyl cleaner.

Note that artillery fungus is common on vinyl siding and may require specialized cleaners and multiple treatments.

Aluminum Siding

For aluminum siding, you can use soft washing or gentle pressure washing with a low to medium-pressure setting and a wide-fan nozzle. Use a mild algaecide or an aluminum-specific cleaner if oxidation is present. If oxidation is severe, a professional may have stronger restoration solutions available.

Wood Siding

Soft washing is the only safe method for cleaning wood siding, as pressure washing can cause serious damage. Use a wood-specific cleaner and add a mildewcide if needed. In Fort Wayne, wood is particularly susceptible to damage, so it’s best to hire a professional for extensive mold or if your wood siding is old or delicate.

Stucco Siding

Gentle pressure washing is usually safe for stucco. Use the lowest pressure setting and a wide-fan nozzle. For heavy soiling, a masonry cleaner is recommended, otherwise, a mild algaecide will work. Be aware that efflorescence (white staining) occurs on stucco.

If stains persist after cleaning, a professional can help identify the underlying moisture source causing the issue.

Brick Siding

For brick sliding, gentle pressure washing is the best approach to avoid damaging the mortar between bricks. Start with the lowest pressure setting and gradually increase only if necessary. Use a wide-fan nozzle and start with an algaecide and water solution.

For heavy buildup, consider a masonry-specific cleaner.

Hardie Board Siding

Soft washing is the preferred method for cleaning Hardie Board siding. Pressure washing may be acceptable if done with extreme caution. Use a low to medium-pressure setting and a wide-fan nozzle. Opt for a mild algaecide or a Hardie Board-specific cleaner.

Metal Siding

Cleaning methods vary for metal siding. Soft washing is best for painted metal, while pressure washing is acceptable for unpainted metal. Use a low to medium-pressure setting and a wide-fan nozzle. Choose a mild algaecide or a degreaser/oxidation remover depending on the type of metal.

Always select a metal-safe cleaning solution, as some chemicals are harmful to specific metals.

Gutters

Gutter cleaning can be tricky. Here’s how to do it safely and efficiently:

1. Remove leaves, twigs, and large debris by hand or with a gutter scoop.
2. Pressure wash the interior and exterior of the gutters using a medium setting and wide-fan nozzle. Adjust pressure if needed to avoid damage.
3. Use a mild algaecide and water solution for cleaning. Opt for a gutter-specific cleaner for stubborn stains.

Pressure Washing Driveways, Patios, and Decks

Different surfaces require different approaches. Here’s the right way to pressure wash your driveway, patio, and deck:

Concrete

Tough and durable, concrete surfaces can easily withstand the power of pressure washing. Use a medium to high-pressure setting and a concrete cleaner/degreaser to restore concrete surfaces to their pristine condition.

Brick and Pavers

Bring back the vibrancy of brick and pavers while protecting their delicate joints. Start with a low-pressure setting and gradually increase. Use a wide-fan nozzle throughout the cleaning process.

A mild algaecide is sufficient for general cleaning, but if heavy buildup is present, opt for a paver-specific cleaner.

Wood and Composite Decking

Soft washing is the preferred approach for both types of decking. Pressure washing should be used with extreme caution, especially on composite decking. If pressure washing is necessary, use the lowest possible pressure setting and a wide-fan nozzle.

Always select a deck-specific cleaner designed for your specific material, whether it’s wood or composite.

Pressure Washing Other Structures (Fences, playsets, etc.)

Keep your entire property looking its best! Here’s how to pressure wash fences, playsets, and more:

Wood Fences

Protect and refresh your wood fence without risking damage by opting for soft washing whenever possible. If pressure washing is necessary, use the lowest possible pressure setting and a wide-fan nozzle. Choose a wood-specific cleaner for your cleaning solution.

Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences are relatively low-maintenance but still benefit from regular cleaning. You can use soft washing or gentle pressure washing with a low to medium setting and a wide-fan nozzle. An algaecide, water, and surfactant solution works well.

Playsets (Wood)

Keep your wooden playset safe and looking great with this gentle cleaning method:

• Method: Soft washing only.
• Pressure Setting: N/A
• Cleaning Solution: Mild detergent or playset-specific cleaner. Ensure it’s non-toxic.

Playsets (Plastic)

Cleaning plastic playsets is usually straightforward. Soft washing or gentle pressure washing with a low setting and a wide-fan nozzle is sufficient. A mild algaecide or all-purpose cleaner will effectively remove dirt and grime.

Important Notes

• Painted Surfaces: Test in a hidden area first, as pressure washing can damage paint.
• Metal Structures: Choose cleaners based on the metal type to avoid corrosion or discoloration.
• Playground Safety: If pressure washing a playset, allow it to dry completely and check for splinters or other hazards before children use it.

When to DIY and When to Call a Fort Wayne Pressure Washing Pro

We DON’T recommend that anyone try DIY house washing.

DIY house washing is a gamble. Using the wrong pressure, the wrong cleaners, or simply not knowing what you’re doing can crack siding, damage your roof, cause water leaks, and even lead to injuries.

In Fort Wayne, it’s even more important to hire a pro. A professional pressure washing service knows the best approach for each one. Here’s why hiring an expert is the smarter choice:

Expertise and Safety

Professionals know the best way to treat different types of siding. They understand when to use soft washing or pressure washing. They’ll also choose the right cleaners for your home. This keeps your home sparkling clean – without the risk of damage.

Plus, they have the equipment and training to safely clean roofs and those hard-to-reach areas.

Specialized Solutions for Fort Wayne Challenges

Experienced companies will be familiar with common Fort Wayne stains like artillery fungus, tree sap, and rust. They’ll have the specialized cleaners and techniques to tackle these tough issues.

Efficiency and Results

Professionals work quickly, have powerful equipment, and understand how to achieve the best possible results.  This saves you time, effort, and the potential frustration of not getting your home as clean as you’d like.

Peace of Mind

Reputable pressure washing companies are insured, protecting you from liability in case of any accidental damage.  This offers peace of mind that your investment is safeguarded.

Choosing the Right House Washing Service in Fort Wayne

When choosing a house washing company in Fort Wayne, go beyond just the equipment and methods they use. Look for a service provider that’s both reliable and trustworthy. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Go For Insured and Experienced Power Washing Service Companies

Ensure the service provider is fully insured, protecting both you and them in case of accidental damage. Experience in the field, especially with a variety of materials and cleaning techniques, is crucial for high-quality work.

Look For Track Records and Reviews

Look for a professional with a solid track record and positive feedback. Five-star reviews and testimonials from previous customers can provide insight into their reliability and the quality of their work. Like these examples:

Choose Value Over Price

While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option available, this often leads to subpar service and potential long-term costs. Invest in a service provider with a slightly higher price but excellent credentials and reviews for a better outcome for your home’s maintenance.

Why Choose M&D Power Washing Services in Fort Wayne, Indiana

For homeowners in Fort Wayne, maintaining the home’s exterior is key to preserving its value and structural health. Consulting with a professional house washing service that is insured, experienced, and highly reviewed will ensure your home is in safe hands.

Remember, the cheapest option is not always the best when it comes to home care and upkeep.

Choosing the right exterior cleaning company is an investment in your Fort Wayne home. M&D Power Washing Services offers expert solutions, proven results, and the peace of mind that comes with insured, reputable professionals.

Call us today at 260-413-3290 for a free estimate.

Preparing Your Home for House Washing

Collaborating with you ensures the best results and a smooth cleaning process. Here’s what we’ll address:

Interior Preparations

To keep the inside of your home dry and protected during the exterior cleaning process, we’ll start with a couple of checks:

• Window and Door Checks:  The team will double-check that all windows and doors are securely closed to prevent water intrusion. If you notice any weatherproofing issues, like a bad seal, let’s discuss a solution – this could be a quick pre-cleaning fix (putting a towel by the door) or a temporary measure for the washing process.
• Weatherproofing Assessment: We’ll identify any potential problem areas with seals and discuss solutions, whether it’s a pre-cleaning fix or a temporary measure during the washing process.

Exterior Preparations

Next, we’ll focus on clearing the area around your house for safety and optimal cleaning results:

• Clearing the Area: Patio furniture, potted plants, and other outdoor items (flags, wreaths, etc.) will be relocated to a safe distance from the washing area.
• Vehicle Safety: Guidance will be provided on where to park your vehicles to protect them during the cleaning process.
• Accessibility: We’ll ensure easy access to all areas of your home’s exterior, including gates and side yards.
• Protecting Electrical: All exterior electrical outlets, CCTV cameras, and fixtures will be covered and protected to prevent water damage.
• Open Communication: We encourage you to point out any areas of concern or delicate landscaping that might need extra care.

Safety First

While we work, your safety and that of your family are a priority:

• Safe Distance: We’ll ask you and your family (including pets) to remain indoors while we’re actively pressure washing.
• Delivery Coordination: Make sure to alert any delivery drivers of packages that will be delivered to keep off the porch.

Protecting Your Landscaping

We care about your landscaping as much as your home’s exterior. So, here’s what we do:

• Plant Protection: We’ll identify sensitive plants and either cover them or pre-rinse them to minimize exposure to cleaning solutions.
• Post-Cleaning Rinse: After the cleaning is complete, we’ll thoroughly rinse the landscaping to remove any residual cleaning solution.

Our Commitment:  M&D Power Washing Services prioritizes clear communication and careful preparation.  We’ll work closely with you to ensure your home is ready for a safe, effective, and revitalizing clean!

Frequently Asked Questions About House Washing in Fort Wayne

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes, we are fully licensed and insured for your protection and peace of mind.

How long have you been in business?

We have been proudly serving the Fort Wayne community for over 12 years.

What is your cleaning process for different surfaces?

We understand that every surface needs a different cleaning approach. That’s why we use different techniques for houses, roofs, and concrete:

• Houses and Roofs: We use soft washing. This involves low-pressure water and special cleaners to blast away dirt, algae, mold, and other buildup. It’s gentle enough to protect delicate materials like shingles and siding.
• Concrete (Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios): Here, we use a more powerful method: high-pressure washing with heat. The high pressure removes even stubborn stains, while the heat dissolves grease and oil. This restores your concrete’s appearance and makes it last longer.

Are your technicians certified?

Yes, our technicians hold certifications.

What cleaning solutions will you be using?

It depends on the stain. We use professional-grade, made by certified chemists, cleaning solutions chosen based on your home’s surface types and the stains we’re targeting.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes, we offer free, no-obligation estimates.

What is your cancellation policy?

It’s OK to cancel if you have an emergency, but you must contact us several hours before the job when it is scheduled. If we are doing a project where chemicals were purchased for a specific cleaning, we will charge for the cost of the chemicals.

Can I expect a lot of noise during the cleaning?

No, because our trailer system and equipment are away from the home.

What will you do to protect my landscaping and surrounding areas?

To protect your landscaping and surrounding areas, we take several precautions. All plants are thoroughly pre-wetted with water and then watered again after cleaning.

Delicate plants are covered with plastic, and we use a neutralizer on any cleaner runoff to protect plant health. Electrical outlets and cameras are also covered, and hot tubs are secured with tarps.

How long will the cleaning process take?

On average, a house wash or roof cleaning could take 2 to 5 hours.

What is included in your price quote?

A full explanation of how we are going to clean, and we answer all your questions.

Do you offer any warranties on your work?

Yes, we do offer warranties for roof cleaning and house washing. 3 years for roofs against any algae growth and 2 years for house washing against any algae growth.

Pressure washing with water alone is not the answer:

Many people assume that if you use a pressure washer to blast off the dirt and algae that this will solve the problem.  You may see the stains come off but at the same time if you don’t know what you’re doing you can damage the surface.  Just imagine cleaning your single or two-story home without the proper cleaners, this could take you all day.  Without the right cleaners you will spend the majority of your day trying to clean with little success.

Using professional cleaners is a must when eliminating algae:

The exterior of your home can become infested with algae, mold and mildew especially on the north side.  The north side of your home does not receive as much sunlight and if you live in a humid climate this can make it worse.  Mildew can start to form on the surface of the siding along with algae and mold spores.  The stains must be treated with a professional cleaning solution that will eliminate the spores as well as remove any surface dirt.  If the spores are not eliminated then the stains you see will appear just as fast several months later.

Feel free to give us a call at 260-413-3290 or fill out our free estimate form by going here!