Why It’s Important to Wash Your Home Regularly
Let’s be honest, living in Hamilton means your house is going to get grubby. Fast. Between our dodgy weather, those sticky humid summers, and all the trees raining leaves everywhere, it’s can feel like a losing battle sometimes. Before you know it, your place is covered in mould, mildew, and general grime that makes it look like nobody’s been home for months.
Here’s the thing though, it’s not just about looking the part. All that crud building up on your weatherboards and cladding? It’s actually eating away at your paint and timber. So regular house washing isn’t about being house-proud (though there’s nothing wrong with that). It’s about not letting your biggest investment go to ruin.
Whether you’re thinking about selling up, trying to stay on top of maintenance, or just sick of your neighbours giving you sideways looks, getting your exterior sorted is something every Hamilton homeowner needs to think about. At least once a year, no excuses.
Benefits of Regular House Washing
Right, so what’s actually in it for you? Turns out, keeping your house clean on the outside does more than just stop the neighbours talking.
• Boost that Street Appeal: A clean house looks newer and like someone cares deeply. Great if you’re selling, or just want to feel good about where you live.
• Protects Against Damage: That mould and moss? It’s not just sitting there looking ugly, it’s slowly munching through your paint and timber. Regular washing stops the rot before it gets expensive.
• Healthier Home Environment: Mould doesn’t stay put outside. It finds its way in through windows, vents, wherever it can. Clean it off and you’ll be breathing easier.
• Saves Your Wallet: Trust me when I say it’s way cheaper to wash your house once a year than fork out for repainting or replacing damaged cladding. A decent clean can add years to your paint job.
• Won’t Wreck Your Surfaces: Soft washing (which uses low pressure and gentle cleaning agents) is perfect for most Hamilton homes. It won’t strip your paint or chip your weatherboards like a cowboy on a pressure washer.
Get into the habit of give the exterior of your house a good washing, and you’re not just keeping it tidy, you’re protecting what you’ve worked hard for.
How Often Should You Wash Your House?
For most Hamilton homes, once a year does the trick. Our climate means you’re fighting a constant battle against dirt, mould, and moss, so an annual clean keeps you ahead of the game.
But some houses are basically magnets for grime. If you’re surrounded by trees, live rurally or your place doesn’t get much sun, you might need to up the ante to every six months. Those shady, damp spots on your house? They’re a prime place for mould to settle in and take root.
The beauty of soft washing is you can do it more often without worrying about damage. Its applied using low pressure and eco-friendly cleaners, so your paint and timber stay happy while the grime gets the boot.
Bottom line is to keep an eye on how quickly the dirt comes back and adjust accordingly. Every house is different, and yours will tell you what it needs.
When Is the Best Time for House Washing in Hamilton?
Timing matters, and getting it wrong can be a right pain. Spring and autumn are your sweet spots here in Hamilton. The weather’s not trying to kill you, and the cleaning products actually work properly instead of drying out before they’ve done their job.
Don’t even think about washing in the middle of summer when it’s scorching, everything dries too fast and you’ll end up with streaks and spots. And washing right before a big downpour? Waste of time and money as that’ll wash away the cleaning products before they can work their magic.
The best time of day to wash is either in the morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler, and there’s less chance of rapid drying. Cooler temperatures mean the cleaners can do their thing without racing against the clock.
How Long Will Your House Stay Clean?
After a good wash, you’re probably wondering how long before you’re back to square one. In Hamilton, you can expect about 6 to 12 months of looking decent, depending on what Mother Nature throws at you.
If your house is tucked under trees or surrounded by gardens, moisture hangs around longer and mold loves it. With our famous Waikato weather, all that rain and humidity doesn’t help either.
Soft washing gives you better staying power. The cleaning agents used can provide a barrier that will keeps the mould at bay for longer. Regular maintenance like trimming back overgrown plants near your home can also help your exterior stay cleaner between washes.
How to Help Your Home Stay Cleaner for Longer
Want to stretch that clean feeling? Here’s how to help yourself out:
- Sort your gutters first. Blocked gutters mean water spilling onto your walls, and that’s just asking for trouble. Trim back any trees or plants getting too cozy with your house, they trap moisture and dump leaves and debris all over your cladding.
- Soft washing is your friend here. It’s gentle on your surfaces but tough on the nasties, and it helps prevent them from staging a comeback too quickly.
- Don’t be slack with maintenance. Book that annual wash and keep an eye on problem areas. Catch things early and you’ll save yourself the headache later.
Choosing Between DIY and Professional House Washing
Look, I get it. DIY seems like the cheaper option, and sometimes it is. But there’s a difference between hosing down your deck and properly washing your house.
Professional cleaners know what they’re doing. They’ve got the right gear, they know how much pressure different surfaces can handle, and they use products that won’t turn your garden into a wasteland. More importantly, they know how to do soft washing properly – get the mix wrong and you could end up with damaged paint or timber that still looks grotty.
Plus, they’re insured, they guarantee their work, and you don’t have to spend your weekend up a ladder getting soaked. Sometimes going with the professionals is just good sense.
What Surfaces Can Be Safely Washed?
House washing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different surfaces need different care.
Most Hamilton houses come as a mixed surface bag – weatherboard, brick, vinyl, plaster, and more. Soft washing is perfect for the delicate stuff like weatherboard and painted surfaces. Save the pressure washing for concrete driveways and paths that can handle the grunt.
Your gutters, eaves, and roof can get the soft wash treatment too, getting rid of moss, mould, and general crud without doing any damage.
Is It Safe for My Garden and Pets?
Fair question, nobody wants to poison mums heritage rosebushes or make the dog sick.
Soft washing uses biodegradable, environmentally friendly cleaners, so it’s much safer than the harsh chemical nasties some cowboys use. Professional cleaners will cover your sensitive plants and rinse carefully to avoid any dramas.
If you’ve got pets, just make sure to keep them inside or locked away during the wash and for a bit afterward until everything’s dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get my house washed in Hamilton?
Once a year for most places, but if you’re in a damp or shady spot, every six months might be more like it.
Can house washing damage paint or windows?
Done properly with soft washing? Nah, you’ll be sweet. Professionals know how to adjust the pressure and use the right products.
Will the service affect my pets or garden?
Soft washing is safe for both. Good operators will take care of your plants anyway.
Do I need to be home for the job?
It’s handy to be around for access and any special instructions, but some services can work around you being out.
So, Why Wash Your Home Regularly?
Keeping your house clean on the outside isn’t just an option in Hamilton. Regular washing protects your paint, cladding, and timber from all the nasties trying to destroy them. It keeps your place looking good and maintains its value.
Soft washing is the way to go for most Hamilton homes. It’s gentle but gets the job done, protecting your surfaces while keeping the mould from making a quick comeback.
Get into the routine of washing at least once a year, stay on top of basic maintenance, and you’ll save yourself money down the track. Plus, you’ll have a house that looks like you actually care about it, and in Hamilton, that’s not always a given. Looking for other tips on how to look after your home? Check out our guide on extending the lifespan of your homes gutting systems here.
