Exterior Front Cleaning
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01/10/25, 16:19
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Front‑of‑House Exterior Cleaning
Overview
• Remove dirt, algae and traffic grime from walls, joinery, glazing and approach paths to restore kerb appeal.
• Skill level 2 / 5 (confident beginner).
• Typical duration 2–4 hours hands‑on (average semi‑detached frontage).
Safety First
Wear safety glasses and waterproof gloves when using cleaning chemicals or pressure washers.
Use a sturdy platform ladder; never over‑reach from a single step.
Isolate exterior sockets or cover them with IP‑rated caps before spraying water.
Keep pets and passers‑by clear of work area—runoff can be slippery.
Avoid spraying water into electricity or gas meter boxes; wipe cautiously instead.
Tools & Materials
Item | Purpose |
Low‑pressure washer or hose with spray gun | Rinse loose dirt and detergent |
Soft‑wash or mild detergent (pH‑neutral) | Break down algae, soot and grease |
Bucket & soft‑bristle masonry brush | Agitate detergent on brick/render |
Microfibre window mop & squeegee | Streak‑free glazing clean |
Stiff broom | Sweep paths and steps |
Plastic sheeting & tape | Protect plants, vents, external lights |
Platform ladder or scaffold board | Safe access to first‑floor areas |
Nitrile gloves, goggles, non‑slip boots | Personal protection |
Old towels or absorbent cloths | Wipe doors, frames, thresholds |
Step‑by‑Step
1. Prepare and protect
Why: Prevents water ingress, electrical hazards and plant damage.
Pro‑tip: Move potted plants two metres back; cover delicate shrubs with dust sheets.
2. Dry‑brush and sweep surfaces
Why: Removes cobwebs and loose dust, letting detergent act directly on grime.
Pro‑tip: Use an extendable soft‑bristle brush for soffits and fascia without climbing.
3. Wet the facade lightly
Why: Damp brick or render absorbs detergent evenly, avoiding patch marks.
Pro‑tip: Mist the surface rather than soak it—slightly damp pores open better to cleaners.
4. Apply detergent or soft‑wash mix
Why: Breaks down algae, mould and traffic film on masonry, paint and PVC.
Pro‑tip: Work from bottom up to reduce streaking; let it dwell 5–10 minutes but never dry out.
5. Agitate stubborn areas
Why: Gentle brushing lifts ingrained dirt without damaging mortar or render.
Pro‑tip: Switch to a nylon detail brush around window frames and letterboxes.
6. Rinse thoroughly top‑down
Why: Flushes loosened grime off walls, windows and sills in one pass.
Pro‑tip: Keep nozzle 30 cm from surface on soft render to avoid etching.
7. Clean windows and frames
Why: Leaves glass streak‑free and restores UPVC shine.
8. Wash doors and hardware
Why: Handles and knockers harbour traffic grime; a wipe extends paint life.
9. Scrub and rinse paths & steps
Why: Removes slippery algae and completes the fresh‑front look.
10. Final wipe‑down and tidy
Why: Prevents streaks on thresholds and collects pooled water near door frames.
Pro‑tip: Open the door slightly and dry the weather bar to stop water tracking indoors.
Completion Checks
Walls dry to an even colour with no streaks or detergent residue.
Windows are clear, with no spotting when sun hits the glass.
Door furniture free from smears; paint or stain intact.
Paths and steps feel non‑slip underfoot.
Gutters, vents and meter boxes show no water ingress.
When to call a pro instead
If your frontage includes fragile lime render, heritage brickwork, second‑storey gables needing specialist access, or heavy black carbon staining that resists detergent, engage a professional soft‑washing contractor or facade‑cleaning company equipped with low‑pressure, biocide treatments and safe access systems to avoid structural damage and ensure even results.
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