Answers
Pressure Washing FAQ for Jacksonville Homeowners
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about cleaning homes in Northeast Florida.
Quick answer
Use a soft wash for siding, stucco and roofs, and a surface cleaner for concrete and pavers. Most Jacksonville homes need a house wash about once a year, drives every one to two years and roofs every few years. Always get a written quote and ask how the pro protects plants and storm drains.
Pressure Washing Questions
What is the difference between soft washing and pressure washing?
Soft washing uses a cleaning mix at low pressure to kill mildew and algae, then rinses it away. Pressure washing uses high pressure water to strip dirt off hard surfaces like concrete. Walls and roofs get soft washed. Driveways and pavers get pressure cleaned.
Is power washing the same as pressure washing?
Most people use the words the same way. Some in the trade use power washing to mean washing with heated water, which helps with grease and gum.
Can you pressure wash a roof?
Not a shingle roof. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association warns against power washing shingles because it strips granules. A low pressure soft wash is the safe method.
What are the black streaks on my roof?
An algae called Gloeocapsa magma. It spreads by wind and grows well in warm, humid places like Jacksonville.
Why is my house turning green?
Algae and mildew grow on damp, shaded walls. North walls and walls behind shrubs or under trees stay wet longer, so they turn green first.
How often should I wash my house?
About once a year for most homes. Homes near water, at the Beaches or under heavy shade may need it more often.
Is the cleaning mix safe for my plants?
When used right, yes. Your pro soaks plants first, keeps the mix off them and rinses them well after.
Is it safe for pets and kids?
Keep pets and kids inside during cleaning and until surfaces are rinsed and drying.
Will pressure washing remove rust?
No. Rust stains need a separate rust remover. Your pro can quote it as an extra.
Will it remove oil stains?
Oil soaks deep into concrete. A degreaser can lighten it, but old stains may not vanish.
How long does a house wash take?
A few hours for most one story homes. Larger homes, heavy growth or extra surfaces take longer.
Do I need to be home?
Not always. Your pro needs a working spigot, open gates and cars moved.
What happens to the wash water?
It should not go into the storm drain. Your pro blocks drains and sends rinse water to grass or beds.
When is the best time of year?
Late spring after pollen for house washing, before June for gutters, and fall for paver sealing.
Can I get a same day quote?
Same day quote requests are welcome. Send the form early in the day with photos.
Do you need my water?
Most pros use your outdoor spigot. Some bring a water tank for jobs without access.
Will pressure washing damage my stucco?
High pressure can. A soft wash cleans stucco safely.
Should I seal my pavers after cleaning?
Usually yes. Cleaning removes joint sand, and sealer locks new sand in place.
Can I do it myself?
Concrete, yes, with care. Roofs, two story walls and stucco are best left to a pro with the right gear.
Is Jacksonville Pressure Washing the company that cleans my house?
No. We are a referral service. We connect you with an independent local exterior cleaning company that quotes and does the work.
Same day quote requests welcome