How Often Should You Pressure Wash Your Home?

October 2025

Keeping Your Home Clean, Safe, and Beautiful

At Summit Cleaning Solution, one of the most common questions we hear is: “How often should I pressure wash my home?” The short answer: it depends. Your home’s materials, the local climate, how exposed it is to the elements—all of it plays a part. In this post, we’re sharing our “two cents” on how often to clean, signs it’s time, and how to schedule it so your home stays in top shape.

Why Pressure Washing Matters

Pressure washing isn’t just about making things look nice—it’s about protecting your home’s value and longevity. Here’s how:

• Dirt, mold and mildew build up on siding, driveways, decks over time. That buildup can trap moisture, fade finishes, or even cause structural damage.

• A clean exterior supports curb appeal (important especially if you ever sell or refinance) and helps your property reflect the pride you take in it.

• Cleaner surfaces mean fewer allergens and less accumulation of debris—especially important in Wichita with its shifting seasons and occasional storms.
  

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The Wichita Factor: Local Climate + Exposure

Living in Wichita means dealing with a mix of weather: humid summers, dust from surrounding areas, occasional storms, and temperature shifts. These all contribute to how quickly your home’s exterior accumulates grime or needs attention.

As a general rule, most homeowners benefit from a full exterior pressure wash every 12 to 18 months. However, certain areas of your property might need more frequent cleaning. For instance, driveways and walkways often show buildup sooner and do well with a quick refresh every six to twelve months. Decks, patios, and outdoor living spaces can be cleaned about once a year, while fences usually need attention every one to two years depending on exposure. Finally, roofs—which require a gentler soft wash—can often go two to three years between cleanings unless you notice heavy staining or algae growth.

Of course, every home is unique. If your property is shaded, surrounded by trees, or located near a dusty road or construction site, you may need more frequent service. On the other hand, homes sheltered from the elements can usually go a little longer between cleanings.

Signs It’s Time to Call in the Pros

Maybe it’s been awhile and you’re not sure if you should call for a cleaning now. Here are some red flags that indicate your home needs professional attention:

• Visible green or black streaks on siding or trim

• Slippery or slick patios, walkways, or stairs

• Fading, chalking, or dullness on siding or painted surfaces

• Water pooling or stains around gutters, fascia, or roof edges

• Extra dirt or residue after a rain, or unusually heavy buildup

When you spot one or more of these, it’s a good time to schedule a professional clean. Ignoring it can lead to more costly repairs down the road.

DIY vs. Professional Pressure Washing: Pros & Cons

DIY:

• Pros: You might save money if you're cleaning just one small area, have the right equipment, and know what you’re doing.

• Cons: Risk of damage—too much pressure can strip siding or force water into cracks and crevices; improper detergents can harm plants or landscaping; you may miss spots or cause uneven cleaning.

Professional (Summit Cleaning Solution):

• Our licensed technicians use commercial-grade equipment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions specially formulated for exterior surfaces.

• We assess each job: siding material, surface condition, surrounding landscaping — and adjust pressure, technique, and solution accordingly.

• We move quickly and safely, delivering reliable results that protect your investment and give you peace of mind.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Good for Your Home and the Environment

We believe in clean homes and clean environments. That’s why we use cleaning products that are safe for your family, pets, and landscaping. These solutions break down grime without leaving harsh chemicals behind, and when combined with proper pressure-washing technique, the result is a clean exterior – sustainably.