Power Washing Your House: When, Why & How Often
Power washing is one of the cheapest ways to dramatically improve your home's curb appeal — but high pressure on the wrong surface can shred siding, etch concrete, and force water behind stucco.
Soft wash vs. pressure wash
Soft wash (under 500 PSI + biodegradable cleaning solution) is for siding, stucco, roofs, and painted surfaces. It kills mold and algae at the root.
Pressure wash (1,500–3,500 PSI) is for concrete, brick pavers, asphalt, and driveways. Never use this PSI on siding.
How often should you wash?
Siding & stucco: every 1–2 years (yearly if you have heavy shade or tree cover).
Decks & fences: yearly, before re-staining.
Driveways & walkways: every 1–2 years, ideally before sealcoating or paver re-sanding.
Roof soft-wash: every 3–5 years to kill black streaks (gloeocapsa magma algae).
DIY mistakes that cost thousands
Using a turbo nozzle on vinyl siding — strips the finish.
Spraying upward under siding laps — forces water into your wall cavity.
Pressure-washing stucco — opens hairline cracks and traps moisture.
Using bleach without rinsing nearby plants — kills landscaping.
