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Master FAQ Hub — Restore & Maintain Your Property’s Exterior

Master FAQ Hub — Restore & Maintain Your Property’s Exterior

Professional Exterior Cleaning Solutions by NorTech

Your outdoor spaces should look as fresh and welcoming as the day they were built. Over time, however, dirt, stains, mold, and environmental buildup can dull appearances and weaken materials. NorTech’s Exterior Cleaning Services combine precision techniques, safe products, and years of expertise to restore your property’s beauty, protect surfaces, and extend their lifespan.

This master FAQ hub addresses everything you need to know — from how we clean delicate siding and roofs, to whether soft washing or pressure washing is best, to how often solar panels should be cleaned. Here you’ll find every answer in detail, so you can make informed decisions and enjoy lasting curb appeal.

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General Exterior Cleaning FAQs

Customers often want to know what to expect from exterior cleaning services overall — what’s included, what’s safe, and how we approach different surfaces.

What’s the difference between pressure washing, power washing, and soft washing?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but there are important distinctions:
– Pressure washing uses high-pressure water (1,300–3,000 PSI) to blast away dirt, stains, and buildup from durable surfaces like concrete, stone, and metal. It’s highly effective but can damage softer surfaces if misused.
– Power washing is similar to pressure washing but uses heated water, making it better for removing grease, oil, or sticky substances.
– Soft washing uses low-pressure water combined with eco-friendly cleaning solutions to gently remove dirt, mold, algae, and stains without damaging delicate surfaces like siding, roofs, or wood decking.
At NorTech, we evaluate each surface and select the safest, most effective method — so every job is tailored for protection and long-term results.

How often should I schedule exterior cleaning?

For most properties, once or twice a year is sufficient to prevent buildup and maintain curb appeal. However, if your home is in a humid, wooded, or high-traffic area, quarterly cleaning may be recommended. Roofs typically need cleaning every 2–3 years, while windows, gutters, and concrete areas may require more frequent upkeep.

Are your cleaning solutions safe for pets, plants, and landscaping?

Yes. We use biodegradable, eco-friendly cleaning solutions that are tough on stains but safe for families, pets, and the environment. Before we begin, we pre-soak and protect landscaping to minimize chemical contact.

Do you guarantee no damage during cleaning?

Our technicians are trained to assess each surface before cleaning. We adjust pressure, water temperature, and cleaning agents to match the material, ensuring the job is thorough but safe. For delicate surfaces, we always use soft washing. All work is backed by NorTech’s Satisfaction Guarantee. Pre-job inspections and protective measures ensure safe results.

Are you insured in case of damage during cleaning?

Yes. NorTech carries full liability insurance. In the rare event of accidental damage, you’re completely covered.

Do you offer exterior cleaning for businesses?

Absolutely. We service storefronts, parking lots, multi-unit housing, office buildings, and more. Clean exteriors improve curb appeal, attract customers, and protect your investment.

Can you work outside of business hours?

Yes. We offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, to minimize disruption to your business operations.

Do you offer emergency cleaning after storms or accidents?

Yes. We provide rapid-response cleaning for storm debris, mud, or accidents such as paint or chemical spills. Our team prioritizes emergency calls to restore your property quickly and safely.

Can you help with post-construction cleanup?

Absolutely. We remove dust, debris, and construction residue from siding, windows, concrete, and more—restoring your property’s curb appeal after major work.

Will regular exterior cleaning help protect my property long-term?

Absolutely. Regular cleaning prevents mold, algae, and dirt from breaking down surfaces. It extends the lifespan of roofs, siding, concrete, and paint while reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

How do I prepare my property for cleaning?

We recommend removing or covering outdoor furniture, keeping pets indoors, and closing all windows and doors. For solar panel and roof cleaning, we handle all safety setup. If you’re unsure, we’ll walk you through simple prep steps before your appointment.

Do you provide bundled cleaning packages?

Yes. In fact, many customers save time and money by scheduling bundled services. This also allows us to handle your property more efficiently, as we already have the equipment onsite.

Do you offer seasonal or annual maintenance packages?

Yes. NorTech offers customizable packages for recurring cleanings at discounted rates. These ensure your property stays consistently maintained year-round without needing to remember scheduling.

Should I schedule exterior cleaning before winter?

Yes. Pre-winter cleaning removes debris, mold, and buildup that could freeze and damage surfaces. For example, clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, while dirty siding may trap moisture that weakens material in freezing temps.

Is spring cleaning really necessary if I did it in the fall?

Yes. Spring cleaning removes winter residue such as salt, mildew, and grime, giving your home a fresh start. It also helps prepare your outdoor areas for entertaining and gardening season.

Concrete Cleaning FAQs

Intro: Driveways, sidewalks, and patios are some of the most used — and most stained — surfaces. Concrete cleaning restores curb appeal and protects against long-term damage.

What stains can you remove from concrete?

We remove dirt, grime, mold, algae, rust, tire marks, and oil stains. For tough oil and grease spots, we use heated pressure washing and specialized degreasers. Rust stains (from irrigation or metal furniture) are treated with targeted cleaners that won’t harm the concrete.

Can pressure washing damage concrete?

Concrete is durable, but using the wrong pressure or nozzle can etch the surface. NorTech technicians are trained to use the right PSI and technique — powerful enough to clean thoroughly without pitting or weakening the concrete.

How often should I clean my driveway or patio?

At least once per year to prevent buildup and stains from setting. In high-traffic areas, or if oil leaks from vehicles, more frequent cleaning may be needed.

Can you seal my concrete after cleaning?

Yes. We recommend applying a protective sealer after cleaning to resist stains, reduce cracking, and extend the life of your driveway or patio. Sealing typically lasts 2–3 years depending on traffic and weather.

Exterior Structure Washing (Decks, Fences, Pergolas, Patios) FAQs

Wood and composite structures need careful cleaning to stay strong and beautiful. Our gentle methods protect your investment.

Do you pressure wash wood decks or fences?

No — high pressure can splinter or strip wood. We use soft washing with specialized detergents that lift dirt, mold, and algae without damage. For composite decking or vinyl fences, we adjust the method for safe but thorough cleaning.

Will cleaning remove mold and algae stains from wood?

Yes. We use treatments that kill mold and algae at the root, not just on the surface, which prevents rapid regrowth. After cleaning, we recommend sealing or staining wood to protect it long-term.

Can you restore faded decks and fences?

Cleaning removes buildup, making faded surfaces look brighter. For full restoration, we also offer staining, sealing, and minor repairs to bring outdoor structures back to life.

Does cleaning help prepare a deck or fence for repainting or staining?

Definitely. Thorough cleaning ensures that new paint or stain adheres properly, preventing peeling or bubbling. We recommend scheduling cleaning a few days before your refinishing project for the best results.

Roof Cleaning FAQs

Roofs protect everything beneath them. Regular cleaning prevents moss, algae, and debris from shortening their lifespan.

Is roof cleaning safe for shingles?

Yes. We use soft washing — low-pressure water plus biodegradable cleaners — that safely remove moss, algae, and streaks without stripping shingle granules or damaging tiles/metal.

Why is moss and algae removal important?

Moss retains moisture, lifting shingles and allowing leaks. Algae (often seen as black streaks) eats away at roofing material. Removing them extends your roof’s life and improves energy efficiency by keeping it reflective.

How often should I clean my roof?

Typically every 2–3 years, though frequency depends on local climate. Homes in humid or shaded areas may need annual cleaning to prevent moss and algae growth.

Do you work on multi-story or steep roofs?

Yes. Our crews are fully trained in fall protection and use professional harnesses, anchors, and ladders. We follow OSHA-compliant safety protocols.

Exterior Window Cleaning FAQs

Clean windows don’t just look better — they let in more light, improve curb appeal, and protect glass from long-term staining.

Do you clean windows by hand or with equipment?

Both. For ground-level windows, we often use squeegee and scrub techniques for streak-free results. For higher windows, we use water-fed poles with purified water that dries spot-free.

Will cleaning remove hard water stains?

We apply specialized solutions designed to break down mineral buildup, restoring clarity without scratching the glass. These treatments can significantly improve older windows as well.

Do you clean window frames and screens too?

Yes — our service includes wiping down frames, sills, and tracks. Screen cleaning is available as an add-on for full results.

How often should exterior windows be cleaned?

At least twice a year. More frequent cleaning is recommended in areas with heavy dust, pollen, or rain.

Do you clean windows on upper stories?

Yes. We use professional-grade extension poles, ladders, and safety equipment to clean windows on any story. For difficult-to-reach areas, we use purified water-fed systems that leave streak-free results.

Gutter Cleaning FAQs

Gutters protect your foundation and roof from water damage — but only if they’re clean and flowing properly.

How do you clean gutters?

We safely remove all debris by hand or vacuum systems, flush the downspouts, and check for leaks or improper drainage. All waste is bagged and hauled away — leaving your yard clean.

How often should gutters be cleaned?

Twice a year: spring and fall, or more often if your home is surrounded by trees. Clogged gutters cause overflow, which damages siding, roofing, and foundations.

Do you check for gutter damage during cleaning?

Yes. We inspect gutters for loose brackets, cracks, or sagging. If repairs are needed, we’ll provide recommendations.

Can you install gutter guards?

Yes — after cleaning, we can install gutter guards to reduce buildup and make future maintenance easier.

Do gutter guards eliminate the need for cleaning?

Gutter guards reduce the frequency but don’t eliminate maintenance. They block large debris but smaller particles like shingle grit and pine needles can still accumulate. Annual cleaning is still recommended.

Siding Cleaning FAQs

Your home’s siding is its face to the world. Proper cleaning restores pride and extends siding life.

What siding types can be safely cleaned?

We clean vinyl, wood, stucco, and brick siding with customized techniques. Vinyl and brick may require light pressure washing, while wood and stucco are best cleaned with soft washing.

What cleaning method do you use for siding?

We use soft washing for vinyl, wood, stucco, and painted surfaces. Brick and stone may require medium pressure. Every material gets a customized approach so it’s safe and effective.

Will cleaning remove mold and mildew from siding?

Yes. Our solutions penetrate pores to kill mold and mildew at the root, ensuring it doesn’t return quickly.

Can siding be damaged by pressure washing?

Yes if done incorrectly. Too much pressure can crack vinyl or force water behind siding, causing rot. That’s why NorTech uses soft washing for most siding jobs.

How often should siding be cleaned?

Every 1–2 years, or more often in humid or shaded areas prone to mold growth.

Can cleaning prevent mold from coming back?

Yes, but results depend on conditions. Our eco-friendly solutions remove current mold and algae, and we can apply preventive treatments. Proper ventilation and sunlight also help reduce recurrence.

Solar Panel Cleaning FAQs

Solar panels only work at their best when clean. Dirt, pollen, and buildup reduce energy output — but safe cleaning restores efficiency.

How does dirt affect solar panel performance?

Even a thin layer of dust or pollen can reduce efficiency by 10–30%. Heavier buildup or bird droppings can cause partial shading, which lowers total power output.

How often should panels be cleaned?

2–4 times per year, depending on dust, pollen, or pollution in your area. Panels near trees or in dry climates may need more frequent service.

Do you use pressure washing on solar panels?

No. Pressure washing can crack glass and void warranties. We use soft brushes, filtered water, and non-abrasive tools to safely clean all panel types.

Will cleaning void my manufacturer’s warranty?

No. We follow manufacturer-approved methods that comply with warranty requirements. DIY or improper cleaning often voids coverage, which is why professional service is recommended.

Coverage, Pricing & Scheduling FAQs

Customers also want clarity on logistics — from service areas to costs and warranties.

What areas do you serve for exterior cleaning?

NorTech covers most US Cities. Rural or remote locations may involve extended travel time, but we’ll confirm upfront.

How much does exterior cleaning cost?

Pricing depends on service type, property size, and condition. For example, driveway cleaning starts at [estimate], while bundled packages offer savings. We provide transparent, upfront quotes with no hidden fees.

Do you offer maintenance plans?

Yes. Many customers choose annual or semi-annual maintenance packages for siding, gutters, windows, and solar panels. Plans save money and ensure your property stays protected year-round.

Is your work guaranteed?

Yes. All cleaning services are backed by NorTech’s Satisfaction Guarantee. If you’re not happy with the results, we’ll make it right.