DIY – A Full Walkthrough To Soft Wash Your Siding On Your Home
Remember: Safety First!
Before you begin, ensure proper protection from the cleaning solution, especially for your skin and eyes. Don’t forget to shield yourself from the sun, even on cloudy days.
Take a walk around and inspect the structure, checking for open windows or siding damage that could allow water into your home. Conduct a thorough safety inspection.
Given the use of water and chemicals near electricity, it’s crucial to address the risks of electrocution and fire. Extensive research is essential to ensure your safety. The primary concept is to prevent any solution or water from coming into contact with electrical components or wiring. Each potential issue has its own challenges that need to be addressed seriously.
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Be on the lookout for insects or critters that may pose a problem. Properly address wasps and other stinging insects before or during the cleaning process. Know their locations and have a plan to handle them.
Pay attention to holes, uneven ground, and overhead issues like deadfall or falling guttering or soffit. Consider these factors during the cleaning process to avoid any accidents.
If you’re working on a multilevel structure that requires leaving the ground, prioritize ladder safety and fall protection. Taking precautions against falls is crucial and should not be taken lightly.
Determine the type of dirt, grime, or organic matter you need to remove from the siding. The process for removing oxidation or stains differs from dealing with common organic growth.
Knowing the type of material on the house’s siding is essential. Different chemicals and solutions react differently to various materials and paints.
Once you understand the nature of what you’re removing and the surface composition, select the appropriate cleaning product. Consider factors such as the dilution ratio, recommended contact time before rinsing, and reapplication requirements if the initial treatment doesn’t suffice.
Consider the impact of the cleaning chemicals on the surrounding landscaping and vegetation. Basic detergents like dishwashing soaps can harm your plants by removing protective oils from leaves or blades. Develop a plan to mitigate these risks as you work.
Remember, the main goal of any DIY project is to avoid injury and prevent damage that could outweigh the cost savings compared to hiring professionals. Take extra care during the preparation phase, as it is the most challenging part.
Ensure your pets are secured, move furniture and objects away from the spray/splash zone, and don’t forget to relocate automobiles, mowers, or other equipment. Double-check that any area where water could encounter electrical components or penetrate beyond the siding is properly sealed.
Gather your supplies, including a sprayer (a gallon or larger pump-up sprayer with an adjustable spray nozzle minimum is recommended) and ample water hose connected to a freshwater source. Use a jet nozzle tip on the hose that can be adjusted in and out for optimal control.
Prioritize safety by wearing glasses and protecting your skin. Continuously refer to the areas of concern noted earlier to ensure everything is in order as you move from spot to spot.
Mitigate risks to vegetation and landscaping by presoaking or covering to reduce splash or overspray, as determined earlier. Adjust these measures as needed for different plants or sections of the structure.
Prepare the chosen solution and apply it using the sprayer. Depending on the material you’re removing and the solution instructions, you may or may not need to presoak the siding with water. This aspect would have been determined during the selection of the solution and dilution ratios.
After the solution has worked for the specified amount of time, rinse as needed. While some solutions may be left without rinsing (typically for roof cleaning), it’s crucial to follow the directions to avoid permanent damage to your siding, paint, or roof due to insufficient rinsing.
Repeat the previous steps and applications as necessary, following the directions provided by the solution and taking into account the specific materials involved.
If you haven’t achieved the desired results for a particular section, rinse thoroughly. Ensure you have mitigated any risks to nearby vegetation. Take the time to pick up any tools and hoses, ensuring the area is safe before moving on. It’s possible that your initial evaluation of the issue was incorrect, and you may be dealing with a different stain or oxidation problem. It could also be an issue with the effectiveness of the solution or the dilution ratio. Each situation is unique, and experience will be your guide in troubleshooting.
Once you have achieved the desired results, repeat any necessary mitigation measures for plants or landscapes and move on to the next section. If you have covered any plants, remember to remove the coverings, especially on hot days. The coverings may create a greenhouse effect, raising the humidity under them.
At this point, assuming your project has gone well and you have achieved the desired results, it’s time to put back any items that were moved earlier. Deal with any remaining cleaning solution responsibly and remove any coverings from plants or electrical junctions. Take a moment to inspect your work area for any tools, hoses, or other items that need to be picked up after the project.
As a final step, it’s always a good idea to rinse all vegetation one last time before putting away the hoses. Additional evening watering can help alleviate any stress caused by detergents or chemicals.
Now, you should be able to enjoy the improved curb appeal of your home. Oh, wait! The gutters still appear dingy. What’s going on there?
DIY route sound a bit complicated or too involved? Unsure about what solutions to use, dilution ratios, or how long to leave the product? Not sure about the materials you’re dealing with? Leave all the guesswork behind and let Aquawash handle your home’s soft water washing. Our experts will take care of everything, ensuring exceptional results and peace of mind. Request a free estimate today and let us simplify your cleaning process!
