Power wash thoroughly to remove dirt, mildew, and loose paint before painting an exterior house to ensure proper adhesion and long-lasting results.

Start by assessing the surface type and paint condition so you can choose the correct pressure and cleaning method; wood and soft substrates need much lower pressure than masonry. Use a pressure washer set between nine hundred and twelve hundred pounds per square inch for painted wood and vinyl siding, and up to two thousand for harder masonry, always testing a small area first. Apply a siding-safe detergent with a downstream injector or pump sprayer, let it dwell for the manufacturer recommended time, then rinse from top to bottom to avoid streaking. For mildew, mix a bleach solution at one part household bleach to three parts water with a liquid detergent, apply it gently with a low pressure or pump sprayer, wait ten to fifteen minutes but do not let it dry, then rinse thoroughly. For areas where paint is loose or delicate trim exists, hand-scrub with a nylon brush to avoid gouging and follow with a light spot pressure-wash to remove residue. Allow the surface to dry fully for at least twenty-four to forty-eight hours depending on humidity and temperature, and check moisture with a surface moisture meter or the simple tape test before priming and painting.

Homeowners often use too high a pressure which causes surface damage; prevent that by testing pressure on an inconspicuous area and lowering the setting until paint and siding remain intact. Another common issue is failing to remove mildew completely which leads to paint failure; treat mildew with the bleach and detergent wash, agitate stubborn spots by hand, and always rinse thoroughly. A third frequent mistake is painting before the substrate is dry which traps moisture and causes peeling; verify dryness by touch, the tape test, or a moisture meter and wait additional days after rain or high humidity.

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