Homeowners call us for all sorts of surfaces, stains, and surprises. After decades on ladders, sidewalks, docks, and shingled roofs across Sussex County, I can tell you the questions tend to repeat, even if the houses and driveways don’t. This guide collects the most common things people ask before they book power washing services, along with the practical advice I give on-site. If you are searching for power washing near me and want to know what’s safe, what’s worth it, and what to expect, you will find the straight details here.
What’s the difference between power washing and pressure washing?
People often use these terms interchangeably. Technically, power washing uses heated water while pressure washing uses ambient, unheated water. In practice, a professional power washing company will choose the right tool and temperature based on the surface and contaminant. Heat speeds up grease breakdown and can make a big difference on oil-stained concrete or gum-littered commercial walkways. For mildew on vinyl, temperature matters less than the correct detergent and a controlled rinse. We also use soft washing when a surface cannot tolerate high pressure. That means low pressure paired with a solution that does the cleaning, not the force of the water.
A quick rule of thumb: softer surfaces and painted finishes need lower pressure and proper chemistry, while hard, unpainted masonry can take more force, especially when you are chasing deep-set grime. When in doubt, err on the side of gentle, then step up only as needed.
Will high pressure damage my siding, roof, or deck?
It can, and that is why technique matters more than the machine. I have seen window seals blown out, cedar fibers raised like a bad haircut, and oxidation striping on vinyl from operators who thought more PSI meant better cleaning. We rarely need more than garden-hose-like pressure on siding, shingles, pressure washing hosebrosinc.com and most wood. For asphalt shingle roofs, we never use high pressure. The granules on shingles are essential for UV protection. Blasting them off shortens the roof’s life. Instead, we apply a manufacturer-approved solution that kills algae at the roots, then let rain and a gentle rinse do the rest.
On wood, we watch the grain, maintain distance, and keep the fan tip moving. The goal is to lift contamination without tearing fibers. If your deck boards have already been furred up by prior cleaning, we can still fix it with sanding and careful brightening, but that adds labor. Preventing damage the first time is cheaper than repairing it later.
Is soft washing just diluted bleach?
Soft washing is a method, not a single chemical. It combines low pressure with a solution matched to the contaminant and surface, often including sodium hypochlorite for organic growth, surfactants for dwell time and wetting, and sometimes specialty cleaners to address rust, oxidation, or battery acid stains. The mix ratio, dwell time, and rinse are the difference between a safe, clean surface and a streaky mess.
For example, on vinyl with algae, we use a mild mix that loosens the growth so it rinses off without scrubbing. On oxidized, chalky siding, we may switch to an oxidation remover and hand-wash problem areas, because bleach won’t touch chalking and too much agitation can mar the finish. Every house wash is its own formula, and that is why a flat price over the phone can be misleading.
Which stains are permanent, and which usually come out?
Most organic stains, such as algae, mildew, and mold discoloration, respond well to targeted chemicals and gentle rinsing. Rust and red clay can also be removed or significantly reduced with the right acid-based cleaner, but you need to protect surrounding surfaces, especially concrete with decorative sealant, nearby plants, and any metal trim.
Oil stains on concrete vary. Fresh oil responds to hot water and a degreaser, but older oil that has baked into the pores often leaves a faint shadow even after a thorough treatment. We can usually improve it by 70 to 90 percent. Fertilizer and battery acid burns on concrete etch the surface. Cleaning will halt the chemical reaction and even out the surrounding area, but it cannot replace lost cement paste. You may need a topical coating if you want that floor-show perfection.
Paint overspray and graffiti depend on the substrate. Brick can handle stronger solvents and hot water. Vinyl, not so much. Graffiti removal on painted stucco often leads to a repaint. We will tell you upfront what is realistic so you can decide whether cleaning, refinishing, or both fit your goals.
How often should I schedule a house wash or concrete cleaning?
Frequency depends on shade, airflow, pollen, and proximity to water. In Millsboro and around coastal Delaware, homes with dense tree cover collect algae and mildew faster, particularly on the north and east sides. Many clients set a house washing schedule every 12 to 24 months. Gutters and fascias may need attention sooner if you have leaf buildup. Concrete driveways do well on a 12 to 18 month cycle, especially if you park outside or deal with sprinkler overspray that leaves mineral marks. Composite decks can stretch longer, but they still need a wash when you see black growth in the grooves.
You can stretch the interval by rinsing lower walls with a garden hose after heavy pollen weeks and by trimming back vegetation to improve airflow. Those small habits save money and keep your exterior from ever looking neglected.
Do I need to be home during the service?
Not usually. If we have outdoor water access and you have closed windows and doors, we can complete most jobs while you are at work. Dogs should be indoors for their comfort, and vehicles should be moved away from the cleaning area. For first-time customers, I like to walk the property with you, flag sensitive areas like failing caulk or hairline cracks, and confirm scope. After that, we can handle repeat maintenance without disrupting your day. We send photos if you request them, and you will see the difference immediately when you pull into the driveway.
What prep do you recommend before power washing?
A little preparation pays off. Move patio furniture, potted plants, and cushions away from work zones. If you cannot relocate plants, tell us so we can pre-wet them and rinse after. Close and lock windows. If a window is known to leak during rain, place a towel along the sill. Remove screens if you want us to wash behind them, or we can work around them. Cover electrical outlets if the gaskets have cracked. We tape where needed, but fresh gaskets are safer.
If we are washing a roof, update us about any recent repairs. Fresh caulk and soft sealants can be sensitive, and we tailor our approach accordingly. For concrete, avoid parking on the surface for a day after sealing to keep tire marks off while the sealer cures.
What does a professional power washing company carry that a DIY setup doesn’t?
Plenty of homeowners own a 2,000 PSI box-store machine. Those units work for rinsing patio mud, but professional rigs offer flow and control. Flow, measured in gallons per minute, moves dirt. We run higher GPM machines with adjustable pressure, hot water capability, and downstream or dedicated pumps that apply solutions precisely. We also carry rotary surface cleaners that deliver even results on large concrete areas without zebra striping. Ladders are a last resort for washing. Our preferred approach is to clean from the ground with long-reach, low-pressure tips and controlled application.
Just as important, we carry the right chemicals and know when to use them. Matching chemistry to the stain keeps pressure low, which protects your property. We test in small, inconspicuous spots, and we keep neutralizers on hand for sensitive metals and plants.
Is power washing safe around landscaping and pets?
It is when handled with care. We pre-wet plants before using any solution, avoid runoff pooling in beds, and rinse thoroughly after. If you have a prized hydrangea or herb garden, tell us and we will use extra shielding or a water-only approach nearby. As for pets, keep them inside while we work. The solutions we use at proper dilutions are safe once dry, but dogs love to trot through active work zones. We do not want them licking suds or slipping on wet concrete.
How long does it take, and when can I use the space again?
A typical single-story house wash takes two to four hours depending on square footage, buildup, and architectural quirks. Driveways vary with size. A two-car driveway with a walkway usually wraps within two hours, longer if we are addressing rust, oil, or heavy leaf tannins. Most exterior surfaces are ready to use the same day once dry. If we apply a sealer to concrete or pavers, expect 24 to 48 hours of curing time before heavy traffic. We provide practical guidance on timing because humidity, shade, and temperature affect drying.
What about windows and streaks?
Window spotting is a common worry. During a house wash, we keep solutions away from glass as much as possible and rinse thoroughly. From there, two factors control results: the quality of the rinse and what was already on the glass. If windows have hard water deposits, they may need a separate window cleaning to reach that crystal finish. For routine house washes, you will see clean frames and screens with minimal spotting. For storefronts, glass fences, or homes with a lot of sun glare, we can add a deionized water rinse that dries spot-free.
Do you clean roofs? Will it void my shingle warranty?
We do, and done correctly, it protects your investment. Black streaks on asphalt shingles come from a hardy algae known as Gloeocapsa magma. We apply a low-pressure algaecide wash that kills the growth without stripping granules. Most shingle manufacturers endorse non-pressure, chemical cleaning for algae and mildew. Using high pressure is the warranty problem, not the chemical application. Results are visible right away for light growth, with some darker areas lightening over a few rainy weeks as dead algae releases.
How do you price power washing services?
Pricing reflects square footage, access, complexity, severity of staining, and whether we are addressing specialty issues like rust or oxidation. A simple ranch home with straightforward access costs less than a multi-gable, three-story with delicate trim and extensive landscaping. We provide written estimates that describe the scope and expected results. If you are comparing quotes from power washing services near me, make sure you understand whether soft washing is included for siding, whether the company rinses plants, and if they carry the right insurance. The cheapest quote sometimes leaves out the steps that protect your property.
Can power washing increase property value?
Clean exteriors change how a property feels before anyone walks in the door. For real estate listings, the difference between a clean driveway and a stained one shows up in photos and in offers. Appraisers look at condition. While they do not itemize cleanliness, they do note curb appeal and maintenance. At a modest cost, a wash can lift a home’s perceived care by a mile. I have watched sellers in Millsboro close deals faster after taking a weekend to clean siding, brighten the entryway, and knock down algae around the back patio. It is not a silver bullet, but it is a strong signal that the home has been looked after.
What’s the best season to schedule power washing in Delaware?
We service year-round when temperatures cooperate. Spring and early summer are popular because pollen and winter grime meet warm days that help surfaces dry quickly. Fall is ideal for house washes before winter storms set in, and for roofs because vegetation is less dense and temperatures are mild. If you are planning to seal concrete, choose a stretch without rain and with daytime temperatures above 50 degrees for proper curing. We monitor weather closely. If wind would carry overspray toward a neighbor’s car or garden, we reschedule rather than risk it.
Can I do this myself?
Some tasks make sense for homeowners. A light rinse of patio furniture or a basic hose-down of a dusty walkway is straightforward. The trouble starts when people climb ladders with a pressure wand in one hand or try to remove oxidation from vinyl siding using friction. A sign you should call a pro: you are not sure which chemical to use for a stain, you need to reach a second story safely, or the surface is delicate or valuable. Beyond the risk of damage, DIY efforts often use too little water flow and too much pressure, which takes longer and creates uneven results. If you enjoy the work and know your limits, we can advise you on safe practices. If not, calling a professional power washing company is usually cheaper than learning by trial and error.
What about gutters, soffits, and fascia boards?
We include exterior gutters and facias in a standard house wash, clearing the algae strip that often shows up beneath the lip. For tiger striping, those vertical black lines caused by electrostatic bonding of pollution to oxidation, we use a dedicated cleaner and light agitation. Interior gutter cleaning is a separate service. Keeping gutters clear prevents overflows that stain siding and flood garden beds. If you notice water spilling over during rain, it is time for a clean-out. Older aluminum can show wear, but consistent maintenance keeps it bright without rubbing through the finish.
Do you seal driveways and pavers after cleaning?
Yes, when appropriate. Sealing helps resist future stains, slows algae regrowth, and makes routine rinsing more effective. On concrete, penetrating sealers add protection without a glossy look and maintain traction. On pavers, sealers can enhance color and stabilize joint sand. We discuss sheen and slip resistance beforehand, because garages and pool decks have different needs. Timing matters. Freshly poured concrete should cure for at least 28 days before sealing. Previously sealed surfaces may require stripping if the current sealer is failing. That step is worth doing right, or you end up trapping uneven gloss and haze.
What if I have lead paint or an older home?
If peeling paint is older and potentially lead-based, we change tactics. No blasting. We keep pressures very low and avoid practices that aerosolize flakes. In some cases, cleaning is not the right first step and containment with a repaint leads the project. We can coordinate with painters, wash after prep, and make sure the final coat grips properly. Historic homes need a gentle hand, patient rinsing, and an eye for weak seams around old windows.
Will power washing help with allergies or respiratory issues?
Removing mold and mildew from shaded walls and decks improves outdoor air quality in those spaces. Pollen on siding and railings also gets knocked down during seasonal washes. For severe allergies, the bigger gains usually come from cleaning outdoor fabrics, cushions, and screens. Those items hold pollen more than painted surfaces do. We can rinse screens and recommend washable covers that reduce buildup. It is not a medical cure, but it makes porches and patios more comfortable during peak seasons.
How do you protect electrical fixtures, cameras, and holiday lighting?
We avoid direct spray on fixtures and cover sensitive components as needed. For security cameras, we shield them and avoid harsh chemicals nearby. If you have low-voltage landscape lighting that is not sealed, let us know. We have gentle methods to clean around them. Holiday lights should come down before a house wash. Old wiring and clips do not love moisture, and cleaning solution can spot bulbs. If they must stay up, we work around them carefully and rinse thoroughly.
What results should I expect on oxidized vinyl siding?
Oxidation shows up as a chalky film. You can swipe a finger across and leave a clean line. Standard house washing does not remove heavy oxidation. In fact, washing oxidized vinyl with strong pressure can leave tiger stripes where runoff dried. We assess oxidation during the estimate. If it is light, we can improve the look significantly with specialty cleaners and soft agitation. If it is heavy and uniform, we discuss expectations. Sometimes the best solution is a repaint formulated for vinyl or panel replacement. That conversation saves surprises on the day of service.
Do commercial properties need different treatment?
They often do. Restaurant dumpsters need hot water and degreaser. Storefronts want streak-free glass and gum removal in high-traffic areas. HOA communities need consistent color across multiple buildings and quick turnaround between tenants. We schedule commercial jobs off-hours when possible, set safety cones, and manage water to avoid pooling near entrances. The goal is to clean thoroughly without interrupting business.
Why is even coverage on concrete so hard for DIYers?
It comes down to tool width, pace, and water flow. A wand with a narrow fan tip carves lanes into dirty concrete, leaving zebra stripes. Professional surface cleaners spin dual nozzles inside a shroud, maintaining consistent distance and speed. Pair that with adequate GPM and you get a uniform clean. We also pre-treat stains so the machine does not have to work as hard, then post-treat to kill remaining organics in the pores. If you have stripes from a DIY attempt, they usually blend after a second, slower pass with the right setup. Sometimes a light post-treatment evens remaining ghosting as growth dies back.
How do I pick the right provider when searching “power washing near me”?
You want experience, insurance, and a willingness to explain process. Ask about soft washing for siding, plant protection, and solution choices for stains you have. Request photos of similar jobs. Verify they carry general liability and workers’ compensation. Look for clarity in the estimate and respect for your property, from how they coil hoses to how they protect corners and trim. A good power washing services provider leaves clean surfaces and no collateral mess. If you feel rushed during the estimate, that is a sign the crew may rush the job.
Here is a simple shortlist to keep handy when you are vetting a power washing company:
- Do they describe their method for your specific surfaces rather than offering one-size-fits-all pressure? Will they pre-wet and post-rinse landscaping and shield sensitive areas? Can they explain what results are realistic on your stains, including limits? Do they carry proof of insurance and provide a clear, written scope? Are they local, responsive, and willing to schedule around weather for best results?
What’s the environmental impact?
We minimize runoff and use the least aggressive solution that achieves the goal. Pre-wetting plants dilutes any incidental contact, and we contain heavy degreasing work where needed. Many detergents we use break down quickly at the dilutions applied in soft washing. That said, water carries whatever it touches, so we avoid washing within storm drains and redirect flow. If you are near waterways or have concerns, ask us to walk you through the plan. We have cleaned everything from lakeside decks to marina walkways by coordinating timing, barriers, and rinse strategies that keep the surroundings safe.
What if rain is forecast?
Light rain can actually help on some house washes by keeping surfaces damp and preventing premature drying of solutions. Heavy rain or high winds are another story. Wind carries mist toward places it does not belong, and downpours dilute cleaners before they do their work. We reschedule if weather will compromise results or safety. You will not pay for half-measures. If you are preparing for an event, we try to build a weather buffer into the schedule.
How long do results last?
For organic growth on siding, you can expect a year or more of clean surfaces, often longer depending on shade and airflow. Concrete exposed to sprinklers, vehicles, and tree litter will show new stains faster than a sheltered patio. Roof treatments for algae typically hold two to three years before a light retreat is needed in shaded zones. Sealing extends the life of a clean dramatically by making it harder for stains to stick. If you maintain gutters, trim vegetation, and rinse occasionally, you will stretch that timeline further.
The little details that make a big difference
This is where field experience shows. We angle water away from weep holes and weatherstripping. We switch to lower pH rinses on metals to prevent streaking. We watch for spider webs and pollen loops that can smear if not knocked down first. On decks, we clean the underside of railings and the edges where algae hides, which helps keep it from reappearing in a month. None of these steps makes a great billboard photo, but they are why a professional wash looks even and lasts.
Ready to talk specifics?
If you are weighing options for power washing services or just want a seasoned eye on a tricky stain, we are easy to reach and straightforward to work with. We give clear estimates, show up when we say we will, and treat your place like it’s ours.
Contact Us
Hose Bros Inc
Address: 38 Comanche Cir, Millsboro, DE 19966, United States
Phone: (302) 945-9470
Website: https://hosebrosinc.com/
Whether you need a careful soft wash on a historic bungalow, a deep clean for a stained driveway, or a roof treatment that restores curb appeal without risking the shingles, Hose Bros Inc. brings the right method to the job. If you are searching for power washing near me, start local, ask good questions, and expect clear answers. That is how you find a partner who keeps your property looking its best all year.