Power Washing Beyond the Basics: Fences, Roofs, and Specialty Areas
While driveways, decks, and home exteriors often take center stage in power washing discussions, numerous other areas around your property benefit tremendously from professional cleaning. These “additional areas” may not be top-of-mind, but they significantly impact your property’s overall appearance, functionality, and value.
From fences that frame your yard to roofs that protect your home, from garage floors that see constant use to playground equipment that keeps children safe—each requires specialized cleaning techniques. This comprehensive guide explores the professional approaches to cleaning these often-overlooked but critically important areas.
Fences: The Framework of Your Property
Fences serve multiple purposes—privacy, security, boundary definition, and aesthetic enhancement. But regardless of material, fences accumulate dirt, develop organic growth, and deteriorate without proper maintenance. Each fence type requires distinct cleaning approaches.
Wood Fences: Natural Beauty Requiring Gentle Care
Wood fencing remains popular for its natural appearance and versatility, but it demands the most careful cleaning approach of all fence materials.
Why Wood Fences Get Dirty:
- Organic growth: Mold, mildew, and algae thrive on damp wood, especially on north-facing sections
- Weathering and graying: UV exposure breaks down wood fibers, creating that weathered gray appearance
- Dirt accumulation: Wind-blown soil and pollution embed in wood grain
- Tannin bleeding: Natural wood tannins create streaks and discoloration
- Vegetation contact: Vines, shrubs, and grass against fence cause staining and rot
- Insect activity: Spider webs, wasp nests, and other insect evidence
Professional Wood Fence Cleaning Process:
Wood fencing is delicate—too much pressure causes permanent damage:
- Pre-Cleaning Inspection:
- Identifying loose boards, protruding nails, or structural issues
- Testing small sections to ensure safe pressure levels
- Noting areas with peeling paint or stain
- Checking for rot or insect damage
- Low-Pressure Application:
- 500-1,200 PSI maximum (lower than most homeowners expect)
- Wood-specific cleaning solutions applied before pressure washing
- Treatment for mold, mildew, and algae
- Allowing solutions to dwell and penetrate
- Gentle Washing Technique:
- Following wood grain direction
- Maintaining consistent distance to prevent gouging
- Avoiding direct spray on fence tops (prevents water intrusion)
- Careful attention to corners and joints where water shouldn’t pool
- Drying and Follow-Up:
- Allowing 48-72 hours drying time before staining or sealing
- Recommendations for repairs before finishing
- Discussion of staining or sealing options for protection
Wood Fence Types and Considerations:
- Cedar and redwood: Naturally resistant to rot but still need cleaning; beautiful color restoration possible
- Pressure-treated pine: Most common; responds well to cleaning; should be sealed after washing
- Hardwoods: Denser woods require lower pressure and specialized cleaners
- Painted wood: Extra care to avoid stripping paint; often reveals areas needing repainting
Expected Results:
Clean wood fencing reveals natural grain and color, transforms gray weathered wood to rich tones, and removes all organic growth. The difference is dramatic—fences often look nearly new after professional cleaning and sealing.
Maintenance Frequency:
- Annual cleaning for best appearance
- Before any staining or sealing projects
- When organic growth becomes visible
- After storm damage or significant weathering
Vinyl Fences: Low-Maintenance but Not No-Maintenance
Vinyl fencing has surged in popularity due to durability and minimal upkeep, but it still accumulates dirt and develops unsightly stains.
Common Vinyl Fence Problems:
- Green and black streaks: Algae and mildew in shaded or damp areas
- Dirt accumulation: Especially in textured areas
- Water stains: From sprinklers or rain runoff
- Oxidation: Chalky appearance from UV exposure
- Spider webs and insect nests: In corners and brackets
- Yellow or brown discoloration: From tannins or environmental factors
Vinyl Cleaning Approach:
Vinyl is more pressure-tolerant than wood but still requires care:
- Chemical Pre-Treatment:
- Specialized vinyl cleaners for organic growth
- Oxidation removers for restoring shine
- Gentle degreasers for stubborn stains
- Moderate Pressure Washing:
- 1,300-2,000 PSI depending on vinyl thickness
- Bottom-to-top cleaning to prevent streaking
- Attention to textured surfaces and decorative elements
- Top-to-bottom rinse for streak-free finish
- Detail Work:
- Cleaning post caps and decorative elements
- Addressing brackets and hardware
- Removing vegetation near fence base
- Cleaning both sides when accessible
Results:
Vinyl fencing returns to bright white (or original color), with all streaks eliminated and surfaces looking nearly new. Modern vinyl often includes UV inhibitors, so color fading is less common than with older materials.
Cleaning Frequency:
- Every 1-2 years for optimal appearance
- Annually for fences with significant shade or moisture exposure
- Spot cleaning for isolated stained areas between full cleanings
Chain-Link Fences: Utilitarian Surfaces with Unique Challenges
Chain-link fencing is valued for security and affordability, but its open mesh design creates unique cleaning challenges.
Why Chain-Link Gets Dirty:
- Trapped debris: Leaves, grass clippings, and seeds caught in mesh
- Rust development: Especially on older or damaged galvanized coating
- Dust and cobwebs: Accumulating throughout the mesh
- Vegetation growth: Vines and weeds growing through links
- Animal nesting material: Birds and small animals using fence structure
Chain-Link Cleaning Technique:
The open nature of chain-link requires adapted methods:
- Debris Removal:
- Manual removal of trapped leaves and material
- Cutting away any vines or vegetation
- Clearing away ground-level weeds along fence line
- Pressure Washing Application:
- Moderate pressure (1,500-2,500 PSI)
- Spraying from both sides when possible
- Careful attention to top rail and posts
- Addressing rust spots with appropriate treatments
- Rust Treatment:
- Identifying areas where galvanizing has failed
- Wire brushing loose rust before washing
- Optional rust-inhibiting coatings after cleaning
- Recommendations for replacing severely deteriorated sections
Vinyl-Coated Chain-Link:
Color-coated chain-link (green, black, brown) requires gentler treatment:
- Lower pressure to avoid damaging coating
- Avoiding rust treatments that might affect color
- Gentle cleaners that don’t strip coating
Expected Results:
Clean chain-link looks dramatically better, with rust and debris removed and a uniform, maintained appearance. While chain-link won’t ever look “beautiful,” proper cleaning keeps it functional and respectable.
Maintenance Notes:
- Annual cleaning recommended
- Rust treatment every 2-3 years extends life
- Addressing damage promptly prevents spread
- Consider vinyl-coating older chain-link during restoration
Garage Floors: The Hardest-Working Surface
Garage floors endure more abuse than almost any other surface around your home—vehicle traffic, oil leaks, chemical spills, dirt tracked in constantly, and complete neglect. Professional cleaning transforms garages from embarrassing storage pits to functional, attractive spaces.
Understanding Garage Floor Contamination
Garage floors develop layers of accumulated grime:
- Oil and automotive fluid stains: Deep penetration into concrete pores
- Tire marks: Black rubber deposits throughout traffic patterns
- Rust stains: From tools, lawn equipment, or metal shelving
- Salt and chemical residue: Tracked in from vehicles during winter
- Dirt layers: Ground-in soil from years of foot and vehicle traffic
- Paint overspray or spills: From DIY projects
- Efflorescence: White mineral deposits common in garages
Professional Garage Floor Cleaning Process
Garage floors can handle aggressive cleaning but require systematic approach:
- Space Preparation:
- Moving vehicles and portable items
- Protecting walls and electrical outlets
- Covering any sensitive equipment
- Ensuring proper drainage or water extraction plan
- Heavy-Duty Pre-Treatment:
- Industrial degreasers for oil stains
- Rust removers for iron-based discoloration
- Concrete etching solutions for heavily soiled floors
- Allowing extended dwell times for penetration
- High-Pressure Washing:
- 3,000-4,000 PSI for embedded grime removal
- Hot water when available for superior oil removal
- Surface cleaning attachments for even results
- Multiple passes in heavily stained areas
- Edge work along walls and corners
- Water Extraction:
- Squeegee work directing water to drain
- Wet-dry vacuum for areas without drainage
- Ensuring complete water removal to prevent slipping
- Proper ventilation for faster drying
- Post-Cleaning Options:
- Epoxy coating preparation and application
- Concrete sealing for stain resistance
- Crack repair recommendations
- Anti-slip coating for safety
Garage Floor Coating Considerations
Many homeowners opt for professional coatings after cleaning:
Epoxy Coatings:
- Require perfectly clean, dry concrete
- Create durable, stain-resistant surface
- Available in various colors and patterns
- Make future cleaning much easier
- Add significant value to garage space
Concrete Sealers:
- Less expensive than epoxy
- Provide good stain resistance
- Easier to apply and reapply
- Maintain natural concrete appearance
Expected Results
The transformation of professionally cleaned garage floors is often shocking. Dark, grimy concrete becomes light gray and uniform. Oil stains disappear or dramatically lighten. The entire space feels cleaner, brighter, and more usable.
Maintenance Recommendations:
- Annual deep cleaning for active garages
- Immediate treatment of oil spills
- Regular sweeping to prevent dirt buildup
- Re-sealing every 2-3 years if sealed
- Epoxy coating every 5-7 years if coated
Outdoor Furniture: Often Forgotten, Always Visible
Outdoor furniture represents significant investment but is frequently neglected in cleaning routines. Professional power washing restores furniture to like-new condition while extending its usable life.
Why Outdoor Furniture Needs Cleaning
Year-round or seasonal exposure creates multiple issues:
- Pollen accumulation: Thick yellow coating in spring
- Bird droppings: Corrosive and unsightly
- Tree sap and honeydew: Sticky residues attracting more dirt
- Mold and mildew: Growing in cushion fabrics and plastic surfaces
- Water stains and oxidation: Particularly on metal and plastic
- Dirt and dust: Ground into textured surfaces
- Spider webs and insect activity: Under and around furniture
Material-Specific Furniture Cleaning
Different furniture materials require different approaches:
Plastic and Resin Furniture:
- Low to moderate pressure (800-1,500 PSI)
- Specialized plastic cleaners for oxidation removal
- Attention to textured surfaces where dirt embeds
- Brightening treatments for sun-faded pieces
- Careful cleaning around joints and hardware
Metal Furniture (Aluminum, Wrought Iron, Steel):
- Moderate pressure appropriate to finish
- Rust treatment for iron and steel
- Gentle cleaning of powder-coated finishes
- Oxidation removal for aluminum
- Inspection for touch-up painting needs
- Ensuring complete drying to prevent rust
Wicker and Rattan:
- Very low pressure to avoid damage
- Soft washing techniques preferred
- Cleaning solutions that kill mold without damage
- Careful drying to prevent mildew
- Inspection for structural integrity
Wood Furniture:
- Extremely low pressure (under 1,000 PSI)
- Wood-specific cleaners
- Following grain direction
- Complete drying before re-oiling or sealing
- Assessment for refinishing needs
Cushions and Fabric:
- Specialized upholstery cleaning
- Mildew removal treatments
- Thorough rinsing to remove all cleaning agents
- Proper drying to prevent mold return
- Waterproofing treatments available
Professional Furniture Cleaning Benefits
Beyond appearance, proper cleaning:
- Extends furniture life significantly
- Identifies damage needing repair
- Prepares surfaces for protective treatments
- Makes furniture more comfortable and pleasant to use
- Removes allergens and potential health hazards
Timing Recommendations:
- Spring cleaning before heavy use season
- Fall cleaning before storage or winter
- Mid-season for heavily used pieces
- Before outdoor events or parties
Playground Equipment: Safety Meets Cleanliness
Playground equipment combines safety concerns with cleaning challenges. Professional service ensures both aesthetic and health benefits while identifying potential safety issues.
Why Playground Cleaning Matters
Children’s play areas demand special attention:
Health Concerns:
- Mold and mildew: Potential respiratory irritants
- Bird droppings: Disease transmission risks
- Insect nests: Stinging hazards
- Algae buildup: Slippery, fall-promoting surfaces
- Dirt and grime: General hygiene concerns
Safety Issues:
- Slippery surfaces: From organic growth
- Visibility: Clean equipment makes defects more apparent
- Structural integrity: Cleaning reveals cracks, splinters, or damage
- Hardware condition: Rust and corrosion identification
Professional Playground Equipment Cleaning
Equipment requires gentle but thorough approach:
- Safety Inspection:
- Checking all structures before cleaning
- Identifying damage, sharp edges, or loose components
- Testing stability of installations
- Documenting concerns for repair
- Child-Safe Cleaning Solutions:
- Non-toxic, biodegradable cleaners
- Mold and mildew treatments safe for children’s contact
- Avoiding harsh chemicals that leave residue
- Thorough rinsing to remove all cleaning agents
- Low-Pressure Washing:
- Gentle pressure appropriate to materials (500-1,500 PSI)
- Attention to platforms, slides, and high-touch surfaces
- Cleaning under and around equipment
- Addressing both equipment and surrounding surfaces
- Material-Specific Care:
- Plastic components: Careful pressure to avoid cracking
- Metal structures: Rust treatment and paint inspection
- Wood elements: Splinter prevention and rot checking
- Rubber surfaces: Cleaning without damage to safety surfacing
Expected Results and Benefits
Clean playground equipment is safer, more inviting, and longer-lasting. Parents appreciate visible cleanliness, and proper maintenance prevents expensive replacements.
Recommended Frequency:
- Residential: Annually or before summer season
- Commercial/HOA: 2-4 times yearly depending on use
- Daycare/School: Quarterly or as required by regulations
- After incidents: Storm damage, vandalism, or safety concerns
Roofs: Specialized Low-Pressure Techniques
Roof cleaning is perhaps the most misunderstood power washing service. Improper technique causes expensive damage, but professional soft washing safely removes harmful growth while extending roof life.
Why Roofs Need Cleaning
Dark streaks and discoloration aren’t just cosmetic:
Organic Growth:
- Algae (Gloeocapsa Magma): Black streaks on shingles, especially north-facing slopes
- Moss: Growing in shingle gaps, lifting edges and creating water infiltration
- Lichen: Stubborn growth with root systems penetrating shingles
- Mildew: Surface growth in damp conditions
Damage from Growth:
- Shingle deterioration from organic acids
- Granule loss exposing underlying asphalt
- Water retention promoting rot
- Reduced reflectivity increasing cooling costs
- Voided warranties on some roofing products
Critical Understanding: Soft Washing, Not Power Washing
Traditional high-pressure washing DESTROYS roofs. Professional roof cleaning uses specialized “soft washing” techniques:
Soft Washing Explained:
- Very low pressure (under 500 PSI—basically garden hose pressure)
- Specialized chemical solutions that kill organic growth
- Extended dwell time allowing chemicals to work
- Gentle rinsing that doesn’t damage shingles
- Results that last longer than pressure washing
Professional Roof Cleaning Process
- Pre-Cleaning Assessment:
- Roof type identification (asphalt shingles, metal, tile, slate)
- Age and condition evaluation
- Identifying damaged areas
- Gutter condition check
- Photographing existing conditions
- Property Protection:
- Covering plants and landscaping
- Protecting gutters and downspouts
- Ensuring proper runoff management
- Safety equipment and fall protection
- Chemical Application:
- Specialized roof cleaning solutions (typically sodium hypochlorite-based)
- Even application across affected areas
- Allowing 15-30 minutes dwell time
- Additional applications for heavily infested areas
- Gentle Rinsing:
- Low-pressure rinse removing dead growth and chemicals
- Downward direction following water’s natural flow
- Careful attention to avoid forcing water under shingles
- Complete rinsing to prevent streaking
- Final Inspection:
- Checking for any missed areas
- Gutter cleaning as needed
- Documenting cleaned condition
- Recommendations for repairs if needed
Roof Type Considerations
Asphalt Shingles:
- Most common; respond well to soft washing
- Granule protection critical
- 3-5 year cleaning cycles typical
- Significant life extension from proper cleaning
Metal Roofs:
- Can handle slightly higher pressure
- Rust and oxidation treatments
- Paint condition preservation
- Algae prevention treatments
Tile Roofs (Clay/Concrete):
- Require delicate handling
- Individual tile stability checking
- Underlayment protection critical
- Moss removal without tile damage
Slate and Natural Stone:
- Most delicate roof type
- Specialized cleaners only
- Hand work often necessary
- Preservation of historical materials
Results and Benefits
Clean roofs look dramatically better, restoring curb appeal and property value. More importantly:
- Extended roof life (potentially years)
- Improved energy efficiency (reflective surfaces)
- Prevention of expensive water damage
- Warranty compliance for some products
- Increased home value
Maintenance Frequency:
- Every 3-5 years in Reading’s climate
- More frequently for heavily shaded roofs
- When black streaks become visible
- Before selling property
- As required by HOA or insurance
Gutters and Downspouts: Essential Drainage Protection
Gutters are critical home infrastructure, but they’re often the dirtiest, most neglected exterior component. Professional cleaning ensures proper function while improving appearance.
Why Gutter Cleaning Matters
Clogged or dirty gutters cause serious problems:
Functional Issues:
- Water overflow: Causing foundation damage, erosion, and basement flooding
- Ice dams: Winter buildup preventing drainage
- Pest nesting: Mosquitoes, birds, and rodents in standing water
- Weight stress: Heavy debris and water damaging gutter systems
- Downspout clogs: Preventing water evacuation
Aesthetic Problems:
- Exterior streaking: Overflow staining siding and trim
- Dark gutter stripes: Oxidation and dirt on outside surfaces
- Visible debris: Leaves and growth showing from ground level
- Sagging sections: From weight of accumulated material
Comprehensive Gutter Cleaning Service
Professional gutter service includes both cleaning and washing:
- Debris Removal:
- Manual removal of leaves, twigs, and accumulated material
- Bagging and disposal of debris
- Checking for nests or blockages
- Downspout clearing and testing
- Interior Washing:
- Flushing gutter channels with water
- Ensuring proper flow to downspouts
- Identifying leaks or separated joints
- Testing drainage at all downspouts
- Exterior Cleaning:
- Power washing outside gutter surfaces
- Removing oxidation stripes and staining
- Cleaning fascia behind gutters
- Brightening appearance dramatically
- System Inspection:
- Checking hanger condition and spacing
- Identifying damage or needed repairs
- Assessing slope and drainage effectiveness
- Recommendations for improvements
Gutter Material Considerations
Aluminum Gutters:
- Most common residential type
- Prone to oxidation streaking
- Specialized cleaners restore finish
- Careful pressure to avoid denting
Vinyl Gutters:
- Similar to vinyl fencing cleaning
- Cannot handle high pressure
- Algae and mildew removal
- Checking for UV damage
Copper Gutters:
- Requires specialized knowledge
- Patina preservation considerations
- Gentle cleaning methods only
- Historical property expertise needed
Steel Gutters:
- Rust prevention critical
- More durable for pressure washing
- Paint condition preservation
- Heavier debris handling capability
Gutter Protection Systems
After cleaning, many homeowners inquire about:
- Gutter guards and screens
- Leaf protection systems
- Heating cables for ice prevention
- Improved drainage solutions
Expected Results
Clean gutters function properly, protecting your foundation and landscaping from water damage. Exteriors look fresh and uniform, eliminating dark streaks. Proper gutter function prevents thousands in potential water damage.
Cleaning Frequency:
- Twice yearly minimum (spring and fall)
- Additional cleanings for heavily treed properties
- After major storms
- Before winter to prevent ice dams
- When overflow or visible debris observed
Retaining Walls: Structural Beauty and Function
Retaining walls serve critical landscape functions while adding visual interest. Proper cleaning maintains appearance while allowing inspection of structural integrity.
Why Retaining Walls Need Cleaning
These hardworking structures face unique challenges:
Functional Concerns:
- Drainage weep holes: Clogging reduces wall effectiveness
- Mortar deterioration: Dirt hiding joint problems
- Structural movement: Staining obscuring dangerous shifts
- Water management: Growth indicating drainage issues
Aesthetic Issues:
- Efflorescence: White mineral deposits
- Algae and moss: Green growth especially at base
- Dirt streaking: From water runoff patterns
- Rust staining: From reinforcement or decorative elements
- Vegetation growth: In joints and crevices
Retaining Wall Material Types and Cleaning
Concrete Block Walls:
- Standard pressure washing (2,000-3,000 PSI)
- Attention to preserving joint integrity
- Efflorescence treatment
- Surface texture preservation
- Identifying any structural concerns
Natural Stone Walls:
- Material-specific pressure (varies by stone type)
- Preserving mortar without eroding joints
- Moss removal without stone damage
- Highlighting natural stone beauty
- Historical wall preservation when applicable
Brick Retaining Walls:
- Lower pressure than concrete
- Mortar joint protection critical
- Efflorescence and biological growth removal
- Identifying repointing needs
- Maintaining historical integrity
Timber Retaining Walls:
- Lowest pressure requirements
- Wood cleaning techniques
- Rot and insect damage identification
- Sealing recommendations after cleaning
- Structural assessment during cleaning
Segmental Block Walls (SRW):
- Moderate pressure appropriate to material
- Cap cleaning and sealing
- Geogrid and drainage inspection
- Joint stabilization checking
- Vegetation removal from gaps
Professional Retaining Wall Cleaning Process
- Structural Inspection:
- Checking for bulging, leaning, or movement
- Assessing drainage function
- Identifying damaged sections
- Photographing conditions
- Vegetation Removal:
- Clearing plants growing in wall
- Root system removal
- Treatment to prevent regrowth
- Protecting desired landscaping
- Targeted Cleaning:
- Appropriate pressure for material type
- Specific stain treatments
- Top-to-bottom cleaning approach
- Joint and mortar preservation
- Weep hole clearing
- Post-Cleaning Assessment:
- Identifying repair needs
- Drainage improvement recommendations
- Sealing or coating discussions
- Landscaping adjustment suggestions
Expected Results
Clean retaining walls dramatically improve landscape appearance while ensuring proper function. Cleaning reveals structural issues requiring attention, potentially preventing catastrophic failure.
Maintenance Frequency:
- Every 2-3 years for most walls
- Annually for walls with heavy organic growth
- After landscaping changes affecting drainage
- When staining or growth becomes visible
- Before property sale or major events
Bringing It All Together: Comprehensive Property Maintenance
These “additional areas” might seem secondary, but they significantly impact your property’s overall appearance, function, and value. Professional power washing services that address all these elements create:
Visual Cohesion: All exterior surfaces clean and uniform, not just obvious areas while others remain neglected.
Comprehensive Protection: Every surface maintained extends overall property life and reduces replacement costs.
Safety Assurance: From playground equipment to garage floors, proper cleaning identifies and addresses safety concerns.
Value Maximization: Properties with thoroughly maintained additional areas command premium prices and sell faster.
Scheduling and Service Coordination
Smart homeowners coordinate cleaning of multiple areas:
Single-Visit Efficiency:
- Fences, outdoor furniture, and walkways cleaned together
- Roof and gutter cleaning combined services
- Garage floors addressed during driveway service
- Reduced per-area costs with bundled services
Seasonal Timing:
- Spring: Roofs, gutters, fences, playground equipment, outdoor furniture
- Summer: Garage floors, retaining walls, additional deep cleaning
- Fall: Gutters (pre-winter), outdoor furniture (pre-storage), final season cleaning
Why Professional Service Matters for Specialty Areas
These additional areas often present greater challenges than primary surfaces:
Access and Safety:
- Roof work requires specialized equipment and safety training
- Heights involved in gutter cleaning
- Heavy furniture moving
- Working around children’s equipment
Specialized Knowledge:
- Each material requires specific understanding
- Structural integrity assessment
- Appropriate pressure and chemical selection
- Recognizing damage vs. cleanable conditions
Proper Equipment:
- Soft washing systems for roofs
- Specialized attachments for various applications
- Hot water capability for garage floors
- Safe access equipment for heights
Comprehensive Solutions:
- Cleaning plus repair identification
- Coating and sealing recommendations
- Maintenance scheduling
- Warranty protection
Your Complete Property Transformation
At ReadingPowerwash.com, we understand that comprehensive property maintenance extends beyond obvious surfaces. Our experienced team brings expertise to every additional area, using appropriate techniques and equipment for each unique application.
Whether you need fence restoration, roof soft washing, garage floor transformation, or any combination of specialty cleaning services, we deliver results that exceed expectations while protecting your valuable property investments.
We don’t just clean—we inspect, advise, and help you maintain every exterior surface for optimal appearance, function, and longevity. Our attention to detail and commitment to proper techniques sets us apart and gives you peace of mind.
Ready to address those often-neglected areas around your property? Contact us today for a comprehensive assessment and free quote. Discover why Reading property owners trust us for all their power washing needs—from the obvious to the easily overlooked. Your completely clean, protected, and beautiful property is just one call away!

