Maryland Powerwash and pressure washing services in Montgomery County Maryland and surrounding areas

Q: Why does my deck need to be cleaned, and why does it need protection?

A: The forces of weather can be devastating to wood. The Suns ultra violet rays can damage the wood fibers. Rain, snow, and morning dew quickly absorbed by unprotected wood, causing it to swell and cup. When the sun's heat dries the wood it shrinks. These cycles of wet and dry, swelling and shrinking Cause wood to warp, split, crack, becoming discolored and unattractive. Cleaning will remove the discoloration and prepare and clean surface for the stain or sealer. The sealer or stain will provided a protective coating to extend the life or your investment.

Q: Why should I power wash my home when I’m going to paint it soon?

A: Power washing can remove the dirt and grime on the surfaces that your about to have painted. Paint will not adhere well to dirt or loose paint which could make any new paint coatings fail quickly.

Q: Why does my home need washing; and how often is it required?

A: Every home should be cleaned about every two years to remove surface dirt, mildew. There are a few things to be aware of though. If you rub your hand over the surface of the siding and you end up with a chalky film on your hand, your home probably has aluminum siding and needs special attention. The substance on your hand is from the sun & elements and its called oxidation. Inexperianced companies may tell you that they can remove this powder when they clean your siding. Removing this layer of oxidation will cause the siding to appear blotchy and discolored. Another thing to be aware of is if you can see black spots on the siding; these spots are an indication of a fungus called artillery fungus, it's usually caused from the mulch around your home and there is no way to remove it at this time. For more information about artillery fungus, see the article from Gene Austin for the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Q: Are the products used on homes and decks safe for my plants, shrubs, children etc.?

A: Yes, all products used are biodegradable and environmentally safe. In some cases we do use oxygenated Bleach (Disodium Peroxydicarbonate) this will allow us to clean wood surfaces such as decks with low pressure. We may also use a stripping agent (Sodium Hydroxide) to remove exhisting stains and finishes. If any of these chemicals are used we will completly neutralize them with Oxalic Acid to brighten the wood and prepare the surface for sealing. Non of our products contain chlorine based bleach, bleach will cause damage to the wood fibers. They will not harm grass or plants.

Q: Can my deck be sealed immediately after cleaning or do I need to wait?

A: In most cases a homeowners deck can be sealed the day after cleaning it depends upon the moisture content of the wood. Usually it's better to wait 24 hours, cleaning and sealing a deck should be at least a two day process, one for cleaning and the second for sealing.

Q: Can my sidewalks be cleaned?

A: Yes, in most cases we recommend cleaning sidewalks or any other concrete surface. Concrete starts to turn a brown/green color over the years, to the homeowner it is not that noticeable because you see it everyday. This discoloration is a combination of dirt, mold, mildew and grease that have built up over the years. Also in the wintertime many people use salt on their walkways or patios, this will also discolor the concrete.

Q: How are estimate given?

A: Once a request for an estimate has been received or an on-line estimate has been submitted; a Henry’s Housework representative will personally come out and evaluate your needs and any concerns you may have.

Q: What else do we clean?

A: We specialize in residential and commercial cleaning. Just to mention a few: graffiti removal, storefronts, buildings, homes and deck cleaning and restoration. These are just a few of the areas we are involved in. Chances are if you need something cleaned we've probably cleaned it.

Q: When is the best time for cleaning my home or deck?

A: Most of our calls for house and deck cleaning come in the spring. Cleaning at this time of year allows you to enjoy your home or deck all year. We do however clean houses and decks straight through the fall months. As a special benefit to our clients, were offering a free reminder service in our newsletter. We hope this will make maintaining your homes easier.

Q: After the cleaning process, how long will the exterior of my house be protected?

A: That depends upon the environment your house is in. Most exterior surfaces will last 6-24 months before they need another mildew wash.

Q: What about site preparation?

A: Before we begin the mildew washing process, we take the time to carefully wet down the surrounding plants, flowers and foliage when necessary we will also cover delicate plants.

Q: What about the items around my house like barbecues, furniture, cars, etc.?

A: We ask that you remove as many items away from the area being cleaned as you can and that you have any foliage touching the house trimmed back. After the house wash, you will be able to return your items to their original location.

Q: Do we have to be home for the service?

A: No, you do not have to be home for any part of the service. All we need is access to a water faucet and that you close all your windows.

Q: How do you handle payment?

A: We accept cash, personal checks and some credit cards. The payment is due after the job is completed.

Q: Is your work guaranteed?

A: Yes it is! We take pride in our fast, professional service and guarantee our quality work to your satisfaction. This means that if for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with our work; we will return ASAP to touch-up or fix the problem, at no charge.

Q: Can I have my roof cleaned?

A: Yes, we effectively power wash your roof to remove mildew and moss growth.

Q: What is the environmental impact of your process?

A: Our cleaning process is usually done with water and mild cleaning chemicals only. On occasion, we may use other products to strip decks but it is rare for us to need them for anything else.



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