Cleaning the outside of a building, or external building cleaning, is an essential part of maintaining the property’s appearance and longevity. Over time, the exterior of buildings can accumulate dirt, grime, pollution, and even algae or mold. Whether it’s a home, office, or commercial building, a clean exterior boosts curb appeal and protects against potential damage.
External building cleaning may seem like a daunting task, especially if the structure is large or made of sensitive materials, but with the right approach, it’s manageable. From high-pressure washing to soft cleaning, there are multiple ways to tackle the dirt and grime. In this guide, we’ll walk through why external building cleaning is necessary, the different cleaning methods, the benefits of keeping your building clean, and the steps to get it done.
Why Choose External Building Cleaning?
First impressions matter, and the exterior of a building is the first thing people notice. Whether it’s a home or business, a dirty, moldy, or grimy façade can create a negative image. Besides aesthetics, regular cleaning helps prevent damage caused by pollution, mildew, algae, and other elements that could degrade surfaces over time.
Moreover, external building cleaning is essential for health and safety reasons. Mold and mildew can trigger respiratory issues, and accumulated dirt can make surfaces slippery or hazardous. Regular cleaning also helps preserve the building’s structural integrity, ensuring it lasts longer and reduces the need for expensive repairs down the line.
Types of External Building Cleaning Methods
When it comes to cleaning the outside of a building, not all methods are created equal. Different surfaces and building materials call for different approaches. Here are the most common types of external building cleaning:
1. Pressure Washing: Pressure washing is one of the most popular methods for external building cleaning, especially for hard surfaces like brick, concrete, and stone. A high-powered stream of water blasts away dirt, grime, algae, and even old paint. However, it’s not suitable for delicate surfaces like wood or older, crumbling brickwork, as the force can cause damage.
2. Soft Washing: Soft washing uses low-pressure water combined with cleaning agents to gently clean surfaces. This method is great for more sensitive materials like painted wood, vinyl siding, and roof shingles. The cleaning solution breaks down the dirt and algae, which is then rinsed away with the soft wash. It’s an excellent alternative to pressure washing when the building requires a gentler touch.
3. Steam Cleaning: Steam cleaning uses high-temperature steam to clean and disinfect surfaces. This is effective for killing bacteria, mold, and mildew without using harsh chemicals. Steam is especially useful for buildings in damp environments or places prone to mold growth. The heat can also break down tough stains like graffiti.
4. Chemical Cleaning: Chemical cleaning involves using specialized cleaning agents that break down dirt, stains, or biological growth. It’s commonly used for more specific problems like removing graffiti, oil stains, or mineral deposits. However, you need to choose the right chemicals for the material you’re cleaning to avoid damage. Many chemical cleaning solutions are also eco-friendly and safe for the environment, making them a good choice for sensitive areas.
5. Sandblasting: Sandblasting is a more aggressive cleaning method, using sand or other abrasive materials to clean tough stains or remove old paint and corrosion from surfaces like metal or concrete. While effective, it can damage certain materials if not done properly, so it’s typically reserved for industrial buildings or specific cleaning jobs.
Benefits of External Building Cleaning
Keeping the outside of a building clean offers more than just aesthetic appeal. There are several benefits to making regular external building cleaning part of your property maintenance routine:
1. Improved Curb Appeal: Whether you’re a homeowner looking to increase property value or a business owner wanting to attract customers, a clean building exterior is essential. Clean buildings stand out, giving a positive impression to visitors, neighbors, or potential buyers.
2. Longevity and Preservation: Regular cleaning helps prevent wear and tear caused by pollution, grime, algae, or mildew buildup. These elements, if left untreated, can cause materials like brick or siding to deteriorate faster. Cleaning protects surfaces, ensuring your building lasts longer.
3. Health and Safety: Dirt, mold, and mildew not only make a building look unappealing but can also pose health risks. Mold, for instance, can lead to respiratory issues for occupants. Algae growth on walkways or walls can create slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of accidents. Regular cleaning removes these hazards.
4. Cost Savings: By maintaining the exterior of your building, you reduce the need for costly repairs or renovations. Dirt and biological growth can cause damage over time, but cleaning helps extend the life of your materials, saving you money in the long run.
5. Environmental Impact: Many modern external building cleaning techniques use eco-friendly methods, like steam cleaning or biodegradable detergents. These methods effectively clean your building while minimizing environmental harm.
Steps to Clean the Outside of a Building
Now that we’ve covered why cleaning your building’s exterior is important, let’s go through the steps to get it done.
1. Assess the Building’s Condition: Before you start cleaning, evaluate the condition of the building’s exterior. Is it covered in dirt, mold, or algae? Are there cracks, peeling paint, or other issues that need attention? This will help you choose the right cleaning method.
2. Choose the Right Cleaning Method: Based on the material and condition of your building, pick the appropriate cleaning method. For example, if you have a brick building with mold and mildew, pressure washing or soft washing might be best. For a wooden structure with peeling paint, soft washing or a more gentle chemical solution would be better.
3. Gather Your Tools and Materials: Depending on the cleaning method, you’ll need various tools like a pressure washer, brushes, or a cleaning solution. You might also need safety equipment like gloves, goggles, and a ladder if you’re cleaning a tall building.
4. Prepare the Surrounding Area: Make sure to protect plants, furniture, and other items around the building before you start cleaning. Cover shrubs with tarps and move anything that could be damaged by water or cleaning solutions.
5. Start Cleaning from the Top Down: Begin cleaning at the top of the building and work your way down. This ensures that dirty water doesn’t streak or ruin freshly cleaned surfaces below. Use steady, controlled movements whether you’re pressure washing or applying a cleaning solution.
6. Let Surfaces Dry: After cleaning, let the building dry completely. This might take several hours or more, depending on the weather and the type of surface. Once dry, inspect the building for any areas that might need a second pass or touch-up.
7. Inspect and Rinse: Once the exterior is dry, take a walk around to ensure everything is spotless. Rinse away any leftover cleaning solutions or chemicals to avoid residue build-up.
Conclusion
External building cleaning isn’t just about keeping a property looking good; it’s a practical step in maintaining and preserving the structure. Whether you’re dealing with dirt, mold, or pollution, choosing the right cleaning method can make a huge difference in both aesthetics and the building’s longevity. By following the appropriate steps and cleaning your building regularly, you ensure that it remains safe, functional, and appealing for years to come.
FAQs
How often should I clean the outside of my building?
It depends on your location and the materials used in your building. Generally, a building should be cleaned at least once a year, but if you’re in an area with a lot of pollution or humidity, you may need to clean it more often.
Can I use a pressure washer on any surface?
No. While pressure washing is great for concrete, brick, and some stone surfaces, it can damage wood, vinyl, or older, delicate materials. Soft washing is a better option for sensitive surfaces.
Is it expensive to hire professionals for external building cleaning?
Costs can vary based on the size of the building and the cleaning method used. While professional services may seem pricey upfront, they can save you money on repairs and prolong the life of your building’s exterior.
Can I do external building cleaning myself?
Yes, you can! For smaller buildings or homes, DIY cleaning is possible with the right tools and methods. However, for larger or more complex structures, it may be worth hiring professionals.