Wind carries field dust and road grit across the valley, and it settles on siding, decks and concrete. Washing takes off dirt, mildew and the chalk on old steel and aluminum siding. It is also the first step of every exterior paint or stain job, with time for the surface to dry afterwards.
The valley is flat and farmed, and the wind brings field dust into town all summer. Add road sand left from winter and the green film that grows on shaded north walls, and most Fargo homes look duller than their paint really is. Washing brings siding, concrete, decks and fences back, and often shows that a house does not need painting yet. It is also the first step of every exterior job we do, because paint will not hold on dirt or chalk.
Pressure is matched to the surface. Vinyl, steel and aluminum siding are cleaned with low pressure and a cleaner, then rinsed from the top down, so water is not forced up behind the laps. Old wood siding and stucco are treated gently for the same reason. Wood decks and fences get a wide tip held back from the boards so the grain is not torn. Concrete driveways, walks and patios can take more force. We keep water away from outlets, vents and window seals.
Washing needs weather above freezing, so the work runs from spring to fall. Many owners book it once the snow and street sand are gone. If washing is the start of a paint or stain job, the surface must dry before anything is applied, and wood takes longer than metal or vinyl. On homes built before 1978 we do not blast loose paint off the walls, since old layers can contain lead and the chips end up in the soil.
Power washing in Fargo: common questions
Will pressure washing damage my siding?
Not when the pressure suits the material. Siding is washed with low pressure and a cleaner. High pressure is kept for concrete.
How long after washing can you paint?
When the surface is dry. Metal and vinyl dry quickly in sun and wind. Bare wood can need several dry days. We check before we paint.
Can you wash my house without painting it?
Yes. Washing is a service on its own for siding, decks, fences and concrete.
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.