POWER WASHING & PRESSURE CLEANING
Restore Surfaces Safely
Power washing and pressure cleaning are essential services for maintaining exterior surfaces, preparing areas for painting or staining, and restoring curb appeal. At Paul Winauski Carpentry, we offer professional cleaning services using appropriate pressure levels and techniques to safely remove dirt, mildew, algae, and old finishes without damaging underlying materials.
Why Surface Cleaning Matters
Over time, dirt, mildew, algae, and weathering degrade surfaces and finishes, leading to discoloration and faster material wear. Proper cleaning restores appearance and prepares surfaces for refinishing. However, incorrect pressure or technique can damage wood fibers, strip paint, or infiltrate siding seams. Professional cleaners balance pressure, detergents, and soft-wash methods to protect materials while achieving deep cleaning.
Key Benefits of Professional Power Washing
Surface restoration: Removes grime and biological growth that degrade finishes and create slips or stains.
Prep for refinishing:
Essential step before painting or staining to ensure adhesion and longevity.
Safety: Prevents slipping hazards on walkways and stairs.
Preservation: Extends life of decks, siding, driveways, and roofing elements by removing harmful growth that accelerates deterioration.
Time savings: Our equipment and experience complete jobs securely and efficiently.
Services We Offer
Deck and Porch Cleaning
Gentle pressure washing or soft wash, followed by optional sanding/staining prep.
Siding Cleaning
Soft washing for vinyl or delicate siding, higher pressure for durable fiber cement or masonry when appropriate.
Driveway and Walkway Cleaning
Removal of oil, tire marks, dirt, and moss with detergent and targeted pressure.
House Exterior Cleaning
Whole-house soft wash to remove mildew and biological growth for improved curb appeal.
Commercial Pressure Cleaning
Small commercial properties, building exteriors, and walkways where safe and appropriate.
Soft Wash vs. Pressure Washing — Choosing the right method
Soft Washing uses low pressure with cleaning solutions to remove mildew and algae without harming the substrate—ideal for siding, delicate wood, and painted surfaces.
Pressure Washing applies mechanical force and is suitable for concrete, stone, and other durable surfaces. We adjust PSI and nozzle selection to match material needs.
Client inspection and resolution of any small items before final payment.
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Final Walkthrough
Typical Project Steps
01
Site Assessment
Evaluate surface type, age, and existing finishes to select method.
02
Preparation
Protect nearby plants and utilities; cover electrical outlets and delicate fixtures.
03
Cleaning
Apply detergents where needed, allow dwell time for stain release, then rinse with appropriate pressure/technique.
04
Final Check
Inspect for missed spots and re-clean where needed; advise on next steps for staining or painting if applicable.
Safety & Technique Considerations
Proper PSI and nozzle selection prevents wood damage and paint stripping.
Avoid directing high-pressure streams at seams, windows, or under trim where water can be forced behind materials.
Use biodegradable detergents when possible, especially near landscaping.
Protect plants, outdoor lighting, and adjacent non-target surfaces during cleaning.
When to Schedule Power Washing
Before repainting or restaining decks and siding.
Spring cleaning to remove winter grime, salt, and residue.
Pre-sale cleanup to maximize curb appeal.
After storm damage or heavy leaf/organic debris accumulation.
Common Cleaning Mistakes and How We Avoid Them
Using excessive pressure on wood decking leading to surface splintering — we use lower pressures and soft washing where appropriate.
Power washing close to windows or doors without protection — we shield openings and avoid direct streams at seams.
Using the wrong detergents that harm plants — we use biodegradable, plant-safe cleaning solutions when possible.
Typical Timelines & Costs
Deck clean and Preparation: Often completed in a single day for typical decks; additional time needed for sanding or stain application.
House Exterior Soft Wash: Usually 1 day for smaller homes; larger homes and multi-level properties may require additional time.
Driveway and Walkway Cleaning:
Typically completed in one day.
Environmental Considerations
We strive to contain runoff and use biodegradable solutions when possible. For projects near sensitive areas or where local regulations apply, we follow proper containment and disposal practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will power washing remove old paint?
It can, depending on pressure, nozzle, and paint condition. We recommend careful evaluation; aggressive stripping can also damage substrates and may not be appropriate.
Is power washing safe for all siding types?
No — vinyl and delicate wood siding often require soft washing, whereas masonry and concrete tolerate higher pressure.
Do you offer staining after cleaning?
We can prepare surfaces for staining and coordinate staining services; staining itself is a separate service that may require additional scheduling.
How should I prepare for the service?
Clear outdoor furniture and potted plants from the immediate area; we will protect remaining landscaping.
Contact & Next Step
Need a safe, effective cleaning to prepare your home for paint or restore curb appeal? Call
(802) 793-0041 to schedule a site assessment and receive a clear estimate. We’ll recommend the right cleaning method for your surfaces and outline follow-up options for staining or painting if desired.