When fall arrives, most homeowners shift their focus to winter preparation mode. This often entails sealing windows, cleaning gutters and putting away patio furniture. But one of the most important and overlooked steps in seasonal maintenance is power washing your home’s exterior.

Power washing should be part of your regular home care routine. Once freezing temperatures hit, it’s nearly impossible, as water would turn to ice. Take advantage of a last opportunity to safely and effectively utilize this method before bunkering down for the cold seasons.

Benefits

• Protects your exterior from mold, mildew, salt and algae buildup
• Improves curb appeal just in time for holiday decorations
• Reveals hidden damages on siding, decks and concrete ahead of needing repair
• Saves money long-term by hindering stains, rots and moisture related deterioration

The Best Time to Power Wash

The ideal window to complete your project is October through early November. Aim for temperatures that are above 40°F. This will offer the best chance of beating the frost and maximizes your results.

Show Off Seasonal Decorations

Nothing ruins doing the hard work of putting up festive decor like having a dirty siding. When you see the leaves start to drop, it's the time to game plan outdoor decorations. Power washing can help by leaving a fresh blank canvas showcasing your seasonal items.

Protect Structural Elements

Power washers don’t just clean, they are super handy in exposing imperfections. By removing surface stains, dirt and debris, you can easily spot what needs to be fixed. This protects your structural integrity by reducing any unnecessary costs or a more expensive energy bill.

Prevent Long Term Winter Damage

Winter is tough on exterior surfaces:

• Concrete absorbs dampness causing it to expand and crack during freeze-thaw cycles.
• Siding collects dirt and algae that can eat away and destroy a structure if left untreated.
• Decks traps excess moisture, which could lead to mold and mildew, and accelerated rotting.

Fall power washing isn’t just about a clean look, it’s about prolonging your investments. By scheduling a wash before winter, you’ll improve curb appeal, help prevent long-term damage and head into the cold season with one less worry on your to-do list.