Dust, inversion grime and hard water marks from sprinklers build up on Salt Lake houses. We match the pressure to the surface: high for concrete, low with cleaner for wood, stucco and old brick. Washing is also the first step of every exterior paint job.
Houses in the Salt Lake Valley get dusty. Dry summers, wind off the west desert and the lake bed, and winter inversions all leave a film on siding, stucco and windows. Sprinklers add hard water marks to the lower walls. A wash takes that off, and it is the first step of any exterior paint job, because paint will not bond to dust or chalk. Homeowners also book a wash by itself to freshen a house before a sale.
Pressure is matched to the surface. Concrete driveways and patios can take high pressure. Wood siding, decks, stucco and old brick cannot. Too much pressure cuts into soft wood, blows stucco finish off and drives water behind siding. On those surfaces we use low pressure with a cleaner and a rinse. On a house built before 1978, we do not blast loose paint off, since old chips may contain lead.
After washing, surfaces need to dry before paint or stain. Our dry air helps: siding is often ready in a day or two, and decks in a couple of sunny days. We do not wash when a hard freeze is due, because water in cracks and joints will freeze. Washing is also sold on its own for decks, fences, concrete and siding. Plants are rinsed before and after, and windows and doors are kept shut while we work.
Power washing in Salt Lake City: common questions
Will power washing remove peeling paint?
It takes off the loosest paint, but it is not a substitute for scraping. Paint that is half attached still has to be scraped and sanded by hand before primer goes on.
How long after washing can you paint?
When the surface is dry all the way through. In our dry climate that is often one to two days for siding and stucco in warm weather, and longer in cool or shaded spots.
Can you remove hard water stains from sprinklers?
Often they can be lightened or removed with the right cleaner. Deep mineral marks on stucco or glass can be stubborn. Moving the sprinkler head so it stops hitting the wall is the lasting fix.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We walk the job and measure.
- Written quote: Prep, paint and price in writing.
- Prep & protect: We cover floors and furniture, repair and prime surfaces.
- Paint & walk-through: Two coats, clean lines, full clean-up and a final walk-through.