Serving Selinsgrove, Snyder County, and Nearby Communities

If your siding looks tired, your concrete is dark and streaky, or your roof has black streaks you just can’t scrub away, professional power washing can make your home look new again. In Central Pennsylvania—where we battle pollen, algae, road salt, and leaf stains—routine exterior cleaning isn’t just about curb appeal; it also protects your investment.

In this guide, you’ll learn what power washing is, when to use soft washing instead, which surfaces can be safely cleaned, how often to schedule service, and why hiring a local pro like Prestige Power Washing is the safest, fastest way to get spotless results.

What Is Power Washing (and When Do You Need It)?

Power washing uses high-pressure water to lift and flush away ground-in dirt, mildew, algae, and contaminants from tough surfaces like concrete, brick, and some types of stone. It’s ideal for:

• Driveways, walkways, patios

• Pavers and brick

• Retaining walls and curbs

• Heavy equipment pads and shop floors

For more delicate materials—like vinyl siding, painted wood, composite decking, and asphalt shingles—you want soft washing: a low-pressure rinse paired with professional detergents that do the cleaning without force. (More on that below.)

Power Washing vs. Soft Washing (Why It Matters)

Using the wrong method can damage your home. Here’s the simple rule:

• Power Washing: High pressure + water. Best for hard surfaces (concrete, brick, most masonry).

• Soft Washing: Low pressure + targeted cleansers. Best for siding, roofs, gutters, soffits, fences, decks, and outdoor furniture.

Why we soft wash roofs: Those dark roof streaks are often a living algae (Gloeocapsa magma). A gentle, manufacturer-approved cleaning kills the growth and rinses it away—no blasting, no shingle damage, no voided warranties.

Surfaces We Clean Safely

• Siding: Vinyl, aluminum, fiber cement (soft wash)

• Roofs: Asphalt shingles, metal, some low-slope systems (soft wash)

• Concrete: Driveways, sidewalks, pool decks (power wash)

• Decks & Fences: Wood, composite, vinyl (soft wash)

• Masonry: Brick, stone, pavers (method depends on condition and jointing)

• Gutters & Soffits: Soft wash + brightening as needed

• Outbuildings & Agricultural: Barns, shops, sheds (method based on finish)

Central PA Problems We Solve All the Time

• Algae & mildew on north-facing siding

• Black streaks on asphalt roofs

• Leaf tannin stains and rust on concrete

• Pollen film in spring and early summer

• Road salt and grime from winter

• Slip hazards on shaded, damp concrete

How Often Should You Power Wash?

In our climate, a good rule of thumb is:

• Siding & Exterior Trim: Every 12–24 months (soft wash)

• Concrete (Driveways/Walks): Every 12–18 months, or as needed

• Roofs: Every 2–4 years depending on shade, trees, and airflow

• Decks & Fences: Annually before staining/sealing for longest coating life

Homes near trees, rivers/creeks, or with heavy shade may benefit from slightly more frequent cleanings.

Our 6-Step Cleaning Process (What to Expect)

1. Inspection: We identify surface type, stains, and risks (oxidation, loose paint, failing mortar, etc.).

2. Protect & Prep: Wet plants, cover sensitive areas, and move patio items as needed.

3. Apply Detergents: Biodegradable cleaners tailored to algae, mildew, rust, or organic staining.

4. Agitation (If Needed): Soft brushing on stubborn spots—no gouging, no swirl marks.

5. Rinse: Low-pressure rinse for siding/roof; controlled high-pressure for concrete.

6. Final Walkthrough: You approve the work; we share care tips for longer-lasting results.

Benefits of Professional Power Washing

• Instant Curb Appeal: Fresh, bright surfaces can boost perceived home value.

• Preventative Maintenance: Removing algae and grime slows wear and rot.

• Safety: Clean, dry concrete is less slippery.

• Prep for Paint/Sealer: Properly cleaned surfaces make coatings last longer.

• Time Savings: We bring pro equipment and know-how, so your weekend stays free.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Renting a machine can look cheaper—until you factor in time, detergents, risk of damage, and uneven results. Pros use:

• Right pressure & tips for each surface (avoids etching and water intrusion)

• Professional detergents (safer, faster, longer-lasting clean)

• Hot water options & surface cleaners for streak-free concrete

• Insurance & safety protocols to protect your property

Seasonal Tips for Central Pennsylvania

• Spring: Pollen film? Schedule a soft wash to keep it from baking onto siding.

• Summer: Ideal for deep cleaning concrete and pool decks.

• Fall: Remove leaf stains and prep surfaces before freezing temps.

• Late Winter: Salt residue on concrete? A proper rinse helps protect it.

Eco & Safety Practices We Follow

• Plant and landscape pre-rinsing and post-rinsing

• Detergent choice matched to the stain (lowest effective concentration)

• Controlled runoff management and site cleanup

• Low-pressure best practices to prevent water intrusion

Service Area

We proudly serve Selinsgrove, Sunbury, Shamokin Dam, Middleburg, Lewisburg, Mifflinburg, Milton, Northumberland, Danville, and surrounding Central PA communities within roughly a 35–45-mile radius.

Ready for a Like-New Exterior?

Whether you need a quick house wash, roof cleaning, or a full driveway refresh, Prestige Power Washing delivers fast, professional results with local expertise. Get a free quote today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will power washing damage my siding?
A: We don’t blast siding. We soft wash with low pressure and detergents, then rinse gently for a safe, uniform clean.

Q: Are your detergents safe for plants and pets?
A: We use industry-standard cleaners, dilute and apply responsibly, and protect landscaping with pre- and post-rinses.

Q: How long will the results last?
A: Most homes stay bright 12–24 months, depending on shade, trees, and airflow.

Q: Can you remove rust, oil, or leaf stains from concrete?
A: Yes—specialized treatments help lift rust and organic stains. Oil can lighten significantly; results vary with age and depth.

Q: Do you clean roofs?
A: Yes. We soft wash asphalt shingles and metal roofs using manufacturer-approved methods that kill algae without pressure.

Q: How soon can I walk or park on cleaned concrete?
A: After rinsing, it’s generally safe to walk once it’s no longer slick (usually within an hour). For sealing, we’ll advise specific cure times.