How Often Should I Pressure Wash My House?

As a pressure washing company owner, one of the most common questions I get from homeowners is:
“How often should you pressure wash your house?”

The answer isn’t the same for everyone, but here’s the good news: it’s not that complicated either. Whether you’re trying to improve your curb appeal, get rid of mold or algae, or keep your home in good shape, pressure washing on a regular schedule can make a huge difference.

I’ll break it all down in a simple, no-fluff way — including when, why, and how often you should clean your home’s exterior, along with what areas to focus on. Let’s get into it.

Why Pressure Washing Is So Important

Let’s start with the basics:
Why does pressure washing matter so much?

Over time, the outside of your house gets hit with a lot of dirt, dust, rain, wind, bird droppings, bugs, cobwebs, tree sap, algae, mold, pollen, you name it. If you let all of that sit for too long, it can not only make your house look dirty, but it can also cause damage.

Benefits of Regular Pressure Washing:

• Keeps your house looking fresh and clean
• Protects your siding, trim, and paint
• Prevents mold, mildew, and algae growth
• Boosts curb appeal
• Increases your home’s value
• Prepares your home for painting or staining

So it’s not just about looks — it’s about maintenance and protecting your investment.

New to pressure washing or want a full overview? Check out our guide to pressure washing your home.

General Rule: Pressure Wash Your House Once a Year

For most homes, once a year is a good rule of thumb for pressure washing the siding. It keeps grime from building up and helps you stay ahead of mold and mildew.

However, there are times when you may want to pressure wash your house more frequently. Here are some factors that determine how often you should wash.

Factors That Affect How Often You Should Pressure Wash

1. Where You Live

If your home is in a humid area, near the coast, or surrounded by trees, it may need washing more often. Humidity and shade can lead to the growth of algae and mildew. Coastal homes deal with salt. Tree-covered homes get sap, leaves, and bugs.

2. The Type of Siding

Some materials hold up better than others. Vinyl siding is tough but shows dirt. Stucco can stain. Wood siding can get moldy if not sealed. The type of siding you have will determine how often it needs to be cleaned.

3. Weather Conditions

If you’ve had a particularly stormy season or heavy winds, your home might need a cleaning sooner than usual.

4. Appearance

Sometimes, it’s just about how it looks. If your home looks dirty, streaked, or dull, that’s your sign that it’s time to clean it up.

How Often to Pressure Wash Different Parts of Your Home

Not all areas of your property need to be cleaned at the same time. Here’s a breakdown of how often each surface should be cleaned:

Area	Recommended Frequency
House siding	Once a year
Driveways and walkways	Every 1–2 years
Decks and patios	Every 1–3 years (more if you BBQ a lot)
Roof (soft wash only)	Every 2–3 years
Gutters	Annually or after heavy storms
Fences	Every 2–3 years

Signs It’s Time to Pressure Wash Your Home

How you clean matters just as much as when you clean. Learn the difference between pressure washing and soft washing to protect your home.

Even if it hasn’t been a year, you might still need to pressure wash your house. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Green or black streaks on siding
• Dust and dirt buildup, especially on window trims
• Algae or moss growth in shaded areas
• A chalky look to paint or siding
• Discoloration or stains on walkways or driveways
• Sticky spots from tree sap or pollen

If you notice any of these, don’t wait for a set schedule — it’s better to address it sooner rather than later.

Pressure Washing vs. Soft Washing: What’s the Difference?

Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt, while
soft washing uses low pressure and cleaning solutions to clean surfaces gently.

Use soft washing for:

• Roofs
• Vinyl siding
• Stucco
• Painted surfaces

Use pressure washing for:

• Concrete
• Brick
• Stone
• Decks and fences (with caution)

For homes with more delicate materials or heavy algae buildup, soft washing is often the better — and safer — option.

How you clean matters just as much as when you clean. Learn more about the difference between pressure washing and soft washing to protect your home.

When Is the Best Time to Pressure Wash Your House?

Timing matters. We recommend scheduling pressure washing in:

Spring

Clean off the grime from winter, eliminate mold before it grows, and prepare your home for warm weather.

Fall

Wash off pollen, leaves, and mildew buildup before winter sets in.

Avoid winter if you live in a freezing climate — the water can freeze and cause damage.

For more seasonal advice, check out our full post:
The Best Time of Year to Pressure Wash Your Home

Can I Pressure Wash My House Myself?

You can, but you need to be careful. A pressure washer is a powerful tool, and misusing it can damage your siding, break windows, or force water behind your walls, leading to mold and rot.

DIY Pressure Washing Tips:

• Use the right nozzle (40-degree tip for siding)
• Stand at least 6 feet away from the surface
• Don’t spray upward under the siding
• Avoid electrical outlets and windows
• Test a small area first

When in doubt, call a pro. It’s safer, faster, and you’ll get better results.

What Happens If You Don’t Pressure Wash Your House Regularly?

If you let dirt and grime sit too long, it becomes harder to remove and can lead to real problems.

Risks of skipping pressure washing:

• Mold and algae can eat away at paint and siding
• Mildew can cause health issues for people with allergies
• Dirty surfaces hold moisture, leading to rot
• Driveways and walkways become slippery and dangerous
• Your house looks neglected

Regular maintenance helps you avoid costly repairs and keeps your home in top shape.

Eco-Friendly Pressure Washing Tips

Being environmentally responsible matters — especially when using water and cleaners.

• Use biodegradable detergents
• Don’t let runoff go into storm drains
• Skip the bleach unless the mold is extreme
• Choose a contractor that uses eco-safe practices

At our company, we take pride in cleaning with care for your home and the environment.

Pressure washing your house isn’t just about looks — it’s about protecting your home. A once-a-year cleaning goes a long way, but keep an eye out for signs that your home might need a touch-up sooner.

If you’re unsure how long it’s been or whether your home needs it, please give us a call. We’re happy to take a look, give you a straight answer, and help you figure out the right schedule.