House Washing to Winterize

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T NEGLECT HOME MAINTENANCE IN AUTUMN.

Autumn seems naturally to be the season when life slows down. Days begin to grow shorter. Temperatures begin to lower. We, like our natural environment around us, are ready to take a break. However, this environment actually creates its own potential hazard to our homes.

It is commonly believed that a home’s exterior should be cleaned only once a year, or only if there is a problem area suffering from mold, mildew, or algae. The folly in this assumption is thinking that the problem is isolated, and not ongoing. The truth is, your home is constantly being bombarded by elements, both seen and unseen. And the combination of these elements creates a perfect storm of unseen damage to your home.

High humidity, dust, dirt, excess moisture, and lack of sunlight are the big offenders when it comes to fostering an environment conducive to algae, mold, and mildew growth on your home. So Autumn and Winter can make your home especially susceptible because of the decrease of sunlight, as well as humid and moist weather. And if its been a while since your last house wash, say a season or two, (or more), the accumulated dirt that naturally clings to your home has just laid out a welcome mat of food for fungus.

Both vinyl and wood siding are equally susceptible, though for different reasons. While wood siding is a natural food source for algae and mold, vinyl siding that is covered in dust or dirt, is equally at risk. And, as the North side of your home receives the least amount of sunlight, this is where the problem will most likely be noticed. However, any area of your home that is consistently shaded is in danger. This can include shade from trees, shrubs, awnings, and porches.

So what can be done to remove the problem of mold, mildew, and algae, or better yet, to prevent it?

Prevention is all about what you do right NOW. It costs nothing to take an inspective stroll around your home. First, look for clear evidence of mold, mildew, or algae growth, indicated by spots or streaks of green, brown, black, or red on your siding. Next, check your sources. Are the Gutters clean, in good repair, with water flowing away from your home? Check that any trees, shrubs, or plantings are pruned away from your siding so as not to encourage excess debris or moisture, that could serve as fast food for algae. Finally, check for cracks or damage to any areas of your siding, including covered porches and soffits. Address immediately anything that looks like a danger zone, including the danger of putting off a professional house wash.

Growth that is left untended isn’t just unsightly, it actually causes structural damage to your home’s exterior and interior. Algae and mold thrive and feed on these surfaces, breaking down structural integrity. Consistent, effective cleaning is the only solution to removal of this insidious problem. Regular house washing, preferably every spring and every autumn, is essential to removal and prevention of buildup as it sterilizes surfaces, making them less prone to these dangers.

Before and After House Washing in Lehigh Valley, PA by Grime Fighters

Take advantage right now to ready your home for winter. Scheduling a professional house wash will benefit you in many ways.

  1. Protect your Investment. Damage to your home will not just cost you money in repair or replacement. It actually devalues your property.
  2. A clean home increases curb appeal, and shows that you respect your home and community.
  3. Protecting your home’s exterior also means protecting your health. Keep potential for allergens and respiratory problems at bay.

Ready your home for winter. Schedule your professional house wash service today.