Top Fall Pressure Cleaning Tips for Property Managers

Fall is here and, with that, brings many changes to the climate – colder temperatures and higher rainfall. The sun shines brightly on buildings in the Fall which causes Property Managers to take an even closer look at their properties’ appearance and curb appeal. The top curb appeal service for property managers all over the country is pressure cleaning. Pressure cleaning is the perfect service for Fall to give your properties a lift and to prepare for whatever Winter has in store. In this article, we will provide the top pressure cleaning tips for property managers from the top surfaces to be cleaned to the type of company to look for to provide the service.

What areas on our property or on our building should we pressure clean? What type of stains should I look for?

There so many areas that a Property Manager should consider when pressure cleaning to boost curb appeal. Building facades, retaining walls, sidewalks, garage floors and curbing, warehouse floors, loading docks, trash dumpster pad sites, monument signs, and fountains to name a few. When discussing what can give properties a lift and create a “wow” effect, pressure cleaning any of these surfaces will help you achieve the reaction that you desire. Pressure washing can be used on things such as rust, efflorescence, mold, and mildew, paint from graffiti, lime deposits, and dirt.

What kind of company provides pressure cleaning services for commercial properties?

Pressure cleaning services for commercial properties are generally performed by exterior maintenance contractors. From larger scale projects, to ones that may be on the smaller side, a commercial cleaning contractor would be able to inform the customer whether they would be able to get the job done. Larger jobs will require different equipment and smaller ones may just need portable pressure cleaning equipment or it may be a combination of chemicals and equipment.

What kind of equipment is used in pressure cleaning?

Pressure cleaning machines are used for pressure cleaning – but it is not that simple. There are many different types of equipment and what is required will vary depending on the size and scope of the job. There are two types of machines – a hot water machine and a cold-water machine – occasionally, when cold water and pressure will not clean the surface, hot water can be introduced. Some chemicals are used when the situation warrants it and some varying tips and wands deliver the water from the machine in several different ways. Lastly, pressure cleaning machines rely on a water source. Water can be attained through a hydrant hook up or many contractors provide their own water tanks, depending on the scope and scale of the job. The important thing to know is that pressure washing is an excellent tool for exterior cleaning, but it should not be something an inexperienced person rents from a home improvement store. A pressure washer used improperly can severely damage sidewalks, signs, building siding, and soft stone if you are not careful!  Repairing those things might cost more than hiring a company that will do the job right.  

What type of questions should a property manager ask a pressure cleaning service provider?

There are several important questions Property Managers should ask to make an informed decision about a pressure cleaning job.

• What type of insurance does the contractor have?
• Do you use subcontractors for work?
• Does the contractor have both hot and cold-water capabilities?
• Will work require chemicals to remove stains?
• Do workers have safety training?
• Does the company have water recovery capabilities if the situation warrants it?

Call KEVCO for All Your Pressure Cleaning Needs in DC, MD, & VA

We hope these tips will get the exterior of your property cleaned and beautiful this Fall. We have been doing exterior cleaning in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northeast Virginia since 1988. We are insured and take as much pride in your property as you do.

Call us for a free estimate today at (301) 258-9750.