Washing is the first step of almost every exterior paint or stain job. It takes off dirt, mildew, and the chalk on old aluminum siding that stops new paint from sticking. Old wood, soft mortar and lead paint need low pressure and care, so the method is matched to the surface.
Power washing is the first step of nearly every exterior paint or stain job, and it is also a service on its own. In the Detroit area the things that need washing off are road grime, green algae and mildew on shaded north walls, the chalky powder on old aluminum siding and the grey weathered layer on decks and fences. Paint and stain will not bond over any of them.
Pressure has to match the surface. Concrete and sound brick can take more. Wood siding, cedar, old mortar joints, window glazing and aluminum siding need low pressure, a wide fan tip and often a cleaning solution that does the work instead of force. Too much pressure scars wood, drives water behind siding and blows out soft mortar. Plants, outlets and light fixtures are protected before washing starts. We test a small patch first when a surface looks fragile.
Two cautions apply to older Detroit houses. Peeling paint on a house built before 1978 may contain lead, and blasting it off with water spreads chips across the yard, so it is not removed that way. After any wash, the surface has to dry before paint or stain goes on. Allow at least a day or two of dry weather for siding and longer for bare wood and decks. We tell you the wait before we book the painting days.
Power washing in Detroit: common questions
Do you power wash before painting?
Yes. Washing off dirt, mildew and chalk is a normal part of exterior prep. The surface is then left to dry before primer or paint goes on.
Can power washing damage my siding?
It can if the pressure is too high. Wood, aluminum and old mortar need low pressure and the right cleaner. The method is matched to each surface.
How long after washing can you paint?
Usually after one to two dry days for siding. Bare wood, decks and shaded walls hold water longer and need more time.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We walk the job and measure.
- Written quote: Prep, paint and price in writing.
- Prep & protect: We cover floors and furniture, repair and prime surfaces.
- Paint & walk-through: Two coats, clean lines, full clean-up and a final walk-through.