How often should you wash your house exterior?
If you can't remember the last time your house was washed, it's probably due. In South-East Queensland's warm, humid climate, mould, mildew and that grey film build up faster than most people expect, and the longer it sits, the harder it works into the surface.
The rough rule: every 12 to 18 months
For most homes we clean, a soft wash every 12 to 18 months keeps the exterior looking fresh and stops growth from getting established. Homes closer to the water, under heavy tree cover, or on the shady side of a hill tend to need it more often because they stay damp longer.
Signs your house is overdue
You don't need a calendar to know it's time. Watch for:
- Green or black patches on walls, eaves or the fence line
- Dark streaks running down from the gutters
- A chalky or grey look to paint that used to be bright
- Slippery paths or a driveway that's gone dark
Any one of these means the growth is already active and spreading.
Why leaving it too long costs more
Mould and lichen don't just look bad, they hold moisture against the surface and slowly break down paint and render. Caught early, it rinses away in an afternoon. Left for years, it can mean a repaint instead of a wash, which costs many times more.
Not sure if yours is due?
Send Nick a photo of the worst wall and he'll tell you straight whether it needs doing, usually with a same-day quote. No pressure either way.
Frequently asked questions
Will washing too often damage my paint?
No. A proper soft wash uses low pressure and the right cleaning solution, so it's gentle on paint and render. It's high-pressure blasting, not regular washing, that damages a finish.
What time of year is best?
Any time works in our climate, but a wash before summer storms or ahead of selling your home gives you the most benefit.