The season of watery eyes, runny noses and itchy throats has arrived. Not only does pollen trigger allergy attacks, it also makes a mess of your home’s exterior. Pressure cleaning will remove pollen from outside areas, but you must do it properly to protect surfaces. Learn more from this quick Q&A:
Q: What types of surfaces can I pressure clean?
A: Brick, stucco and siding (aluminum, wood and vinyl) all benefit from pressure washing. You also can pressure clean decks, patios, walkways and driveways. Each surface type requires its own method, though. For example, siding can withstand medium pressure, but stucco and brick call for low pressure as they prove more susceptible to damage.
Q: When should I pressure clean my home?
A: When pollen season ends depends on where you live. In most areas, tree pollen makes the biggest mess and typically does so through the early days of June. If you have allergy sufferers in your home, consider investing in a quality pressure washer and using it throughout the season. If you have a large home and value your free time, a professional painter can perform pressure cleaning on a regular basis. If the pollen proves more of an annoyance than a health concern, you can wait until the end of the season.
Q: If I do it myself, what safety precautions should I take?
A: Always wear safety goggles when using a pressure washer and keep kids and pets out of the area, as the 
force of the water can cause injury.
Q: Does pressure cleaning require any prep?
A: Yes. Patch any cracks and chips on stucco and any damaged mortar on brick; allow repairs to dry for at least a week. Prior to pressure cleaning any type of surface, wet and cover nearby plants, light fixtures and outlets using plastic sheeting and painter’s tape. Close all windows and doors to avoid making a mess of the inside of your home while cleaning up the outside. After pressure washing, reseal your bricks.
One final note before you make plans to pressure clean your home’s exteriors: Follow the directions on both the pressure cleaner and any cleaning products involved. As noted above, different surfaces require different cleaning methods to avoid causing costly damage. If the pressure cleaning seems above your skill and comfort level, turn the job over to professional pressure cleaning services and simply enjoy the results.