Mildew Be Gone! Pressure Washing vs. Traditional Cleaning: Which Wins?

Mildew, that pesky fungus that thrives in damp environments, can quickly take over your home’s exterior surfaces. From siding and fences to decks and patios, mildew not only looks unsightly but can also damage surfaces and pose health risks.

When it comes to mildew removal, you have options: traditional cleaning methods like scrubbing with bleach or the power of pressure washing. At APro Pressure Washing, we’re experts in restoring and protecting your property. In this blog post, we’ll compare pressure washing to traditional cleaning methods, highlighting the pros and cons of each to help you choose the best solution for mildew removal.

Traditional Cleaning Methods: Elbow Grease and Patience

Traditional mildew removal often involves:

• Scrubbing with Bleach Solution: Mixing bleach with water and scrubbing the affected areas with a brush.
• Vinegar Solutions: Using vinegar as a natural alternative to bleach for scrubbing.
• Commercial Mildew Removers: Applying store-bought mildew removal products according to instructions.

Pros:

• Lower Upfront Cost: Generally requires less expensive tools and readily available cleaning solutions.
• DIY Approach: Can be a DIY project for homeowners comfortable with manual labor.

Cons:

• Time-Consuming: Scrubbing can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially for large areas.
• Less Effective: May not completely remove deeply embedded mildew or reach hard-to-access areas.
• Potential for Damage: Harsh scrubbing can damage delicate surfaces.
• Safety Concerns: Bleach and other cleaning solutions can be harmful to skin, eyes, and plants.

Pressure Washing: The Power of Water

Pressure washing utilizes high-pressure water spray to blast away dirt, grime, and mildew from surfaces.

Pros:

• Highly Effective: Quickly and effectively removes even the most stubborn mildew.
• Deep Cleaning: Reaches crevices and hard-to-access areas that scrubbing may miss.
• Time-Saving: Covers large areas quickly, saving time and effort compared to manual scrubbing.
• Versatile: Can be used on various surfaces, including siding, decks, fences, concrete, and roofs (with appropriate techniques).

Cons:

• Higher Upfront Cost: Requires specialized equipment and professional expertise.
• Potential for Damage: Improper use of high-pressure water can damage delicate surfaces.

When to Choose Which Method

• Small Areas and Light Mildew: For small areas with light mildew growth, traditional cleaning methods may suffice.
• Large Areas and Heavy Mildew: For larger areas or heavy mildew infestations, pressure washing is the more efficient and effective solution.
• Delicate Surfaces: For delicate surfaces like wood siding, soft washing (low-pressure washing with specialized cleaning solutions) is a safer option.

The APro Pressure Washing Advantage

We offer professional pressure washing services that deliver exceptional results:

• Experienced Technicians: Our technicians are trained to identify the type of mildew and choose the appropriate pressure and cleaning solutions for each surface.
• Professional Equipment: We use high-quality, adjustable pressure washing equipment to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
• Eco-Friendly Solutions: We utilize environmentally friendly cleaning solutions whenever possible.
• Surface Protection: We take precautions to protect your property and landscaping during the cleaning process.

Protect Your Investment

Mildew removal is not just about aesthetics; it’s about protecting your property and maintaining its value. By choosing the right cleaning method and partnering with professionals like APro Pressure Washing, you can ensure effective mildew removal and preserve the beauty and longevity of your home’s exterior. Contact us today to schedule!