For homeowners in Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford and across HRM, “house washing” should mean a clear scope. Our approach covers the accessible, suitable surfaces on all elevations of the house—not just the obvious green patches. Here is what each part of the service means, what result to expect and how to prepare.

What exactly gets cleaned?

These inclusions match our house-washing service. If there is an unusual material, damaged finish, inaccessible section or special stain, we assess it and confirm the plan before treating it.

A complete pass around the house

We work around the house systematically so the included surfaces receive treatment across each elevation. The goal is consistent coverage, including the less obvious areas around frames, below the eaves and on shaded walls. We do not limit the wash to visible spots.

Full coverage still depends on access and surface condition. Dense plants, locked gates, stored items, loose siding, open joints or fragile finishes can change what can be treated. Any area that needs to be avoided or assessed separately should be identified during the pre-wash check.

Our dedicated soft-wash system: approximately 100 PSI

We do not use a pressure washer to apply the house wash to your siding. Yellow Wash uses a dedicated 12V soft-washing system operating at approximately 100 PSI. The approach is a gentle, hose-like application: the suitable cleaning solution treats organic buildup, rather than relying on a concentrated high-pressure jet.

The equipment figure is not a measurement of pressure at every point on your wall. The nozzle, distance, flow and spray direction also matter. A pressure washer’s maximum rating—such as 4,000 PSI—does not tell you the pressure a contractor actually uses, so comparing machine ratings alone cannot establish how another company cleans.

Our low-pressure approach helps reduce the risks associated with aggressive washing. Care around siding laps, window seals, screens, vents and weathered finishes remains essential. No washing method makes water entry or surface damage impossible. Ply Gem warns against directing water upward behind siding and notes that excessive scrubbing or unsuitable cleaner concentrations can harm finishes. [1]

The exact siding manufacturer’s instructions take priority. For example, James Hardie recommends low-pressure water and suitable soft cleaning tools for its products rather than high-pressure power washing. That does not make one cleaning solution appropriate for every finish. [2]

Does a house wash include window cleaning?

It includes a light rinse of exterior window glass. For many routine house washes, that is enough for a refreshed everyday appearance. It is not the same as a dedicated glass-cleaning service, and spots or remaining marks may still be visible once the windows dry.

For a superior glass finish, choose our separate exterior window-cleaning service. We brush the glass with a water-fed pole and rinse with deionized water; that service also includes sills, frames and exposed tracks. Tell us you want both services when requesting your quote.

How much brighter will the house look?

Removing dirt and green or dark organic buildup can make white frames, trim and siding look noticeably cleaner and brighter. The change depends on how much removable buildup is present, the original colour and the condition of the finish. There is no fixed brightness percentage that applies to every home.

Cleaning cannot reverse faded colour or a worn coating. Oxidation is a pre-existing weathering condition, and our gentle approach is intended to minimize disturbance. Loose chalk can still be affected by cleaning, so we assess it first. Oxidation removal, persistent gutter streaks, rust and other specialist stain treatments need a separate assessment and agreed scope.

What about the algaecide, plants and pets?

The algaecide treatment targets organic growth on suitable exterior surfaces. Responsible use depends on the specific product, its dilution, the surface and the application conditions. “Eco-friendly” is not a substitute for checking those details, and no treatment should be described as harmless to every plant, animal or person.

Before the visit, tell us about delicate plants, vegetable beds, ponds, pet areas or other sensitive surroundings so the protection plan can account for them. Keep people and pets out of the active work area and follow the crew’s instructions about returning. Product-label precautions and any re-entry directions must be followed; CCOHS explains that these are part of pesticide labelling. [3]

What is separate from the house wash?

• Roof cleaning or treatment.
• Deck cleaning, driveway cleaning and patio cleaning.
• Dedicated window cleaning, gutter-interior debris removal, repairs and separately assessed stain or oxidation treatments.

Ask for any additional work to be included explicitly in your quote. Yellow Wash does not clean painted or stained wood decks, and deck cleaning does not include staining or sealing.

How long does a house wash take?

Most of our standard house washes take about 1–1.5 hours. This is a typical service estimate, not a fixed appointment length. House size, height, buildup, access, weather and any added services can extend the visit. We confirm the expected work window for your property.

A few things to do before we arrive

• Close windows and exterior doors, and report damaged seals, loose siding or known leaks.
• Clear the agreed work areas and access routes; move vehicles and light belongings as requested.
• Provide the agreed water and power access, and unlock any required gates.
• Keep pets and people away from the active wash area.

Our appointment preparation guide explains the full checklist. With access ready and the scope agreed, we can concentrate on giving the included exterior surfaces a thorough clean.