When we handle pre-paint washing for wood siding in Illinois, it comes down to three things: protecting your plants and property, cleaning with the right method, and walking the job with you at the end. With wood siding, the right approach is soft wash.
How we clean it
Cleaning solution: A mild house-wash mix; an oxygen-based cleaner when the wood will be stained.
What to know about cleaning wood siding
Painted and stained wood siding grows mildew and loses its finish faster on the shaded and weather-facing sides. A soft wash cleans it without raising the grain, and is the usual first step before repainting or restaining.
Avoid: High pressure that raises fibers, gouges the wood or strips sound paint unevenly.
How often: Every 1-2 years, and before every repaint.
Is it time for pre-paint washing for wood siding?
- You're about to paint or stain the house
- Chalky residue comes off on your hand
- Mildew or dirt under the old paint
Where the grime comes from
- Paint chalking as it ages
- Mildew that will grow through new paint if not killed
- Dirt that weakens adhesion
Safe steps for homeowners
- Ask your painter what prep they need
- Allow siding to dry for the time the paint maker recommends before painting
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Painting over mildew, which bleeds through
- Too much pressure that damages wood or drives water into the wall
- Painting before the wood is dry
Our process for pre-paint washing for wood siding
- Coordinate with your painter
- Protect plants and fixtures
- Kill mildew and wash the surface
- Remove loose chalk and dirt
- Leave the house to dry before painting
Typical pre-paint washing for wood siding prices
What moves the price:
- Size: square footage of siding, roof or flatwork
- Condition: heavy growth, old stains and peeling finishes take longer
- Access: number of stories, roof pitch, slopes and how close we can park
- Add-ons: sealing, gutter brightening and other services done in the same trip
These are typical U.S. ranges, not a quote. You get an exact price before any work starts. For a quick estimate, try the pressure washing cost calculator.
Other services for wood siding
- Soft Washing for Wood Siding
- House Washing for Wood Siding
- Exterior Mold & Mildew Removal for Wood Siding
Local pre-paint washing for wood siding for Illinois
Humid summers in Illinois grow green algae and black mildew on the shaded sides of homes, especially on vinyl and painted wood. A soft wash kills the growth rather than just knocking it off, so the siding stays clean longer.
We cover 507 cities and towns across Illinois. Find pre-paint washing for wood siding in your city:
Pre-Paint Washing for Wood Siding: frequently asked questions
How much does pre-paint washing for wood siding cost in Illinois?
Pre-Paint Washing for Wood Siding typically costs $250-$600 for a typical home exterior, and usually takes 2-4 hours plus dry time. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for pre-paint washing for wood siding?
For wood siding: soft wash, typically under 500 PSI; up to about 1,000 PSI with a wide tip for bare wood prep. What we avoid: high pressure that raises fibers, gouges the wood or strips sound paint unevenly. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is pre-paint washing for wood siding safe for my plants and pets?
We pre-wet plants and lawns, keep cleaning solutions diluted to what the surface needs, and rinse landscaping again when we finish. Keep pets and children inside until surfaces are rinsed and dry.
How often should I schedule pre-paint washing for wood siding?
Every 1-2 years, and before every repaint. Shade, nearby trees, humidity and heavy traffic mean more frequent cleaning; sunny, dry spots can go longer. Our free cleaning frequency tool gives a recommendation for your climate.
What if it rains on the day?
Light rain doesn't stop most washing, but heavy rain, high wind, lightning and freezing temperatures do. If the weather isn't right, we reschedule at no charge. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.