Discover 5 Important Reasons to Schedule a Roof Soft Wash
Your property’s roof needs maintenance. However, it’s easy to lose track of this requirement, and chances are, it’s already been over a year since your roof was last cleaned. If this is the case, you’ll want to take action sooner rather than later—and for many reasons, too! In this blog, discover five reasons you should invest in a professional roof soft wash. As you’ll soon discover, you have a lot to gain by doing so! We are Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, a locally owned business in Sherwood, OR, and we’re here to help when your roof needs to be cleaned. So don’t be shy—give us a call, and we’ll swing by to restore your deck in the very near future! #1: Improve Your Property’s Appearance It goes without saying, but when your roof is dirty, it doesn’t look its best. Debris piles up on your roof’s surface, and the longer this is allowed to happen, the thicker the resulting layer will be. This will make your roof filthy, dark, and dull. This actually decreases your property’s overall beauty, which is inconvenient for homeowners and catastrophic for business owners. Instead of letting your roof fall into a state of disrepair, reach out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services. It will be our pleasure to thoroughly clean your roof and completely eliminate debris. Enjoy a better-looking roof—and, as a result, a better-looking property! #2: Help Your Roof Last Longer Did you know that debris actually damages your roof over time? There are actually many reasons for this. For example, particles of debris grind against your roof and slowly erode it. If this is allowed to happen for a long period of time, it could result in the formation of holes and leaks. Additionally, moss, mold, and algae store water and increase the risk of moisture damage. The last thing you want to deal with is roof rot! Prevent damage from becoming a reality by scheduling a roof soft wash. With this service, you’ll be able to get rid of debris and stop it from wreaking havoc on your rooftop. This will actually help you save money in the long run! Avoid costly repairs and keep that cash in your pocket. #3: Improve Air Quality Believe it or not, there is a connection between your roof’s cleanliness and the air quality surrounding your property. It involves the presence of moss, mold, and algae. These substances release spores when they reach maturity, and these spores will drift through the air. When inhaled, they will irritate your eyes and lungs, and they might leave you coughing and sneezing, too. Get rid of organic debris—and by extension, spores—by scheduling a roof soft wash. This process is specially designed to eliminate moss, mold, and algae. At Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, we use cleaning solutions, such as sodium hypochlorite, to kill these unwanted growths and end their spew of spores! #4: Help Protect Your Gutters When your roof isn’t well-maintained, your gutters just might suffer the consequences. Consider this. Over time, your roof collects debris. However, when it storms, rainwater pushes this debris into gutters. Eventually, unwanted materials will form a massive clog, preventing gutters from doing their job. This results in gutters that overflow or even sag! Want to keep your gutters in the best possible condition? If so, don’t forget the role that a roof soft wash plays in this process. By keeping your roof clean, you’ll help keep your gutters clean, too. It’s a win-win scenario! #5: Attract More Customers This benefit of scheduling a roof soft wash is exclusively for business owners. Did you know that keeping your roof clean will actually help you attract more customers? Think about it—would you rather visit a well-maintained business, or one with a mossy, filthy roof? The answer is obvious, so don’t leave your roof dirty. Restore its appearance, make your business more visually appealing, and draw in more customers! Don’t Wait to Prioritize Roof Cleaning You’ve discovered many benefits of scheduling a roof soft wash in this blog. However, let’s take a look at the other side of the equation. What are the disadvantages of not cleaning your roof? If you ignore your roof for too long, it will gather debris endlessly, and it’s only a matter of time before you suffer the consequences. You’ll wind up with a dirty, visually unappealing property—as well as costly repair bills you’ll have to pay for. Additionally, it’s worth noting that some roofs are best cleaned multiple times per year. This is especially true if you live near trees or a busy road. In these conditions, your roof is prone to accumulating more debris than usual (e.g., leaves, sticks, asphalt particles, exhaust particles). Consider semiannual roof cleaning for the best year-round results in these cases. DIY or Professional Roof Cleaning? So, you’ve decided that your property is overdue for a roof soft wash. Committing to getting this work done is a great first step. Now, you have a big decision to make. Will you reach out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services for professional service, or will you try to do this work on your own? Ultimately, the best choice depends on your preferences. If you do your own roof soft wash, you won’t have to pay a team of experts to do the work for you. However, this comes at the cost of your time and energy. You’ll have to get your own soft washing equipment, learn how to use it, and spend hours of your free time restoring your roof. This work could very well leave you exhausted! Consider scheduling a professional roof soft wash to avoid all this work. The team at Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services is prepared to handle this job for you—and for a fair price. Get Started With Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services We would love to hear from you, so why wait to get in touch? Contact us online, let us know how we can serve you, and get a free cost estimate today.
Common Problems Solved by Sherwood, OR Power Washing
Have you considered cleaning your property’s exterior surfaces? If not, you probably should. At Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, we recommend scheduling Sherwood, OR power washing at least once per year. Why? Because power washing is the key to solving various problems at your property. In this blog, we’ll review the many ways power washing will make your home or business a better place. It will save you more frustration than you might expect! Looking for Sherwood, OR power washing from a professional business? If so, consider reaching out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services. We are proud to be a locally owned and operated company, and it would be our pleasure to serve you in the near future. Problem #1: Visually Unappealing Surfaces When surfaces become dirty, they also become ugly. It’s not hard to see why. When debris builds up on exterior surfaces, it suffocates their beauty, giving it a dark and dull appearance. It won’t take you long to notice this transformation—and if you can see the difference, your neighbors probably can, too. This problem is even worse for business owners because the worse a commercial property looks, the less likely it is to attract customers. Sherwood, OR power washing will restore your property’s beauty so it can look its best again. Power washing uses high-pressure water to remove debris from surfaces, drastically improving their appearance. If your home or business looks like it could use a visual refresh, let Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services know, and we’ll make it happen! Problem #2: Increased Risk of Surface Damage When your surfaces aren’t properly cleaned, the consequences go beyond cosmetics. In fact, unwashed surfaces are more likely to become damaged over time. But why is that? Particles of debris can grind against surfaces, gradually eroding them. Additionally, organic debris, such as moss, mold, and algae, can wreak havoc on your property. These substances grow inside cracks, force surfaces apart over time, and even increase the risk of moisture damage. To reduce this risk, try Sherwood, OR power washing! This technique can be used to remove debris from surfaces, protecting them from potential damage. This will actually save you money in the long run because you will avoid the need for costly repairs. Put that cash into savings, or use it to do something fun—it’s up to you! Problem #3: Oil Staining on Driveways If your car has leaked oil onto your driveway, it can leave you frustrated. However, don’t let your emotions get the best of you in this situation. The first thing you should do is soak up oil with cat litter. That way, you prevent it from being absorbed by concrete. However, if your concrete has already become stained by oil, don’t worry because Sherwood, OR power washing is the solution to your problem. With power washing and a degreaser, you can lift even stubborn oil stains out of concrete! First, apply degreaser to the stained area. This will weaken stains and break the bonds between oil molecules and concrete. Then, thoroughly power wash the area; pressurized water helps lift oil from concrete’s pores, which brightens (if not completely removes) oil stains. Problem #4: Slippery, Dangerous Surfaces Did you know that debris actually makes surfaces dangerous over time? When surfaces are brand-new and don’t have any grime on them, they are smooth and and safe to walk on. Over time, though, these surfaces will gather debris, and this can eventually lead to disaster. Once surfaces are smothered with a slick layer of grime, it becomes much more likely that someone will slip and fall. This could result in injury and even liability lawsuits. Instead of letting surfaces become slippery, remove dangerous debris with Sherwood, OR power washing. By power washing driveways and sidewalks, you get rid of layers of grime, drastically reducing the risk of injury. Keep your home or business safe! Problem #5: The Appearance of Graffiti Has graffiti appeared on your property’s exterior surfaces? If so, you’ll want to do something about it sooner rather than later. That’s because when graffiti sticks around, it’s a signal to vandals to further degrade the property. Good news—getting rid of graffiti couldn’t be easier thanks to Sherwood, OR power washing. To remove graffiti with power washing, begin by applying a specialized “graffiti removal chemical” to the surface. Give it fifteen minutes to set; then, thoroughly power wash the area, removing all spray paint. This will completely eliminate the unwanted markings and restore order to your property’s exterior. Solve Even More Problems With Professional Services As you’ve discovered, Sherwood, OR power washing is the solution to many surface cleaning problems. There are so many ways you’ll help your property by simply removing all debris from its exterior surfaces. However, did you know that you’ll solve even more problems by scheduling an appointment with a professional business? Reach out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services and schedule an appointment with us if you’d like to enjoy the following conveniences: Get Started With Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services If you are interested in our professional Sherwood, OR power washing, don’t wait to get in touch with us. Contact us online with information about your project, and we will happily give you a free cost estimate. From there, choose a time and date for your appointment, and we’ll be there in the near future to make your exterior surfaces spotless. We look forward to improving your property’s appearance and solving a variety of problems at your home or business. Let’s make your day-to-day life easier!
5 Challenges of Pressure Washing and How to Overcome Them
Are you thinking about doing your own pressure washing? If so, don’t go into the process thinking it will be a walk in the park. You may wind up sorely disappointed. In fact, there are many challenges of pressure washing that you will have to overcome during your DIY process. Instead of discovering and trying to solve these problems blindly, read through this blog! We’ll teach you about the challenges of pressure washing, as well as real strategies you can use to make sure your pressure washing process isn’t brought to a screeching halt. We are Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, and we proudly provide pressure washing services to the Sherwood, OR community. Rely on our experience, and if you ever need professional pressure washing, simply contact us and schedule an appointment. Challenge #1: Finding Time For the Work If you are planning to do your own pressure washing, you’ll have to find time for the work. This is easier said than done, especially if you have a busy schedule. Working a full-time job can make DIY pressure washing feel like an impossible task. Add a slew of chores, errands, and responsibilities to it all, and suddenly, you’re struggling to find an hour to dedicate to pressure washing—much less five or six. If you are going to do your own pressure washing, we highly recommend that you dedicate a day to the work. While the work might not take you all day, you don’t want to be in a position where you feel like you have to rush. This will compromise the quality of the final results. Challenge #2: Purchasing and Using Equipment Another one of the challenges of pressure washing is acquiring the necessary equipment. Pressure washing requires a specific set of tools. For example, you’ll need a pressure washer. This specialized piece of machinery connects to a water source and pressurizes water, making pressure washing possible. In addition to a pressure washer, you’ll also need: It’s not enough to simply buy this equipment. You also have to learn how to use it. The careless use of pressure washing equipment could result in damaged surfaces or even injury. Make sure you know what you’re doing ahead of time—don’t rush into the pressure washing process! Challenge #3: Using the Correct Water Pressure Setting If you want to pressure wash your property’s exterior surfaces, you will need to use an appropriate amount of water pressure. Determining the correct setting is easier said than done, though. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all sort of thing. Different materials require different approaches. We have included a few examples of surfaces and how much water pressure they should be cleaned with below: We highly recommend testing your pressure washer before committing to a full project. Simply find an inconspicuous area where you can safely spray. That way, you can see if the material negatively reacts to pressurized water. Don’t see any problems? Good—then you can proceed with the whole pressure washing process. Challenge #4: Uneven Cleaning Techniques One of the challenges of pressure washing is cleaning your surfaces evenly. If you pressure wash your surfaces aimlessly, you can easily lose track of what you’ve already cleaned and what you still need to wash. We highly recommend washing surfaces in a gridlike, row-by-row pattern. This makes it easy for you to keep up with your progress. Be sure to overlap each pass to ensure no surface area goes unwashed! We also recommend remaining a consistent distance away from the surfaces you are washing, too. Stay about a foot and a half or two feet away. This is important because your distance from the surfaces affects the strength of the pressure washing—and that, in turn, affects the quality of the results. Challenge #5: Defeating Stubborn Debris Finally, you’ll need a strategy in place for when you’re faced with stubborn debris. Unfortunately, not all grime will simply wash away. Sometimes, it will put up a fight, and basic pressure washing techniques won’t be enough to remove it. This is especially true in the case of: The secret to defeating this debris is the use of specialized cleaning solutions. For example, at Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, we use sodium hypochlorite to break down stubborn grime. You can do the exact same thing. Simply apply a thin layer of this cleaning solution to the dirty areas. Then, wait fifteen minutes for debris to be broken down. Finally, pressure wash the area, and all that grime should easily wash away now. DIY or Professional Pressure Washing? As you have learned in this blog, there are many challenges of pressure washing. Learning to overcome them all will require time, energy, and patience. Make no mistake about it—DIY pressure washing is a viable option. However, it might not be the right solution for you, so if you don’t want to do your own pressure washing for whatever reason, reach out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services. It would be our pleasure to serve you! With professional pressure washing, you won’t have to do any of the work. Simply take some time to relax while our experts clean your property for you. We’ll happily restore your property’s exterior for a reasonable price. Cost of Pressure Washing Services How much can you expect to pay for our pressure washing? What you’ll owe is based on the size of your project. There are no hidden fees or surcharges, and we would be happy to provide you with a free cost estimate upon request. All you have to do is reach out to us with details about your appointment. To get started, contact us online and let us know how we can help you! We look forward to hearing from you and pressure washing your property so it looks its best again.
How to Pressure Wash a Fence
A fence makes a great addition to any opportunity. By installing a fence at your home or business, you will lend it some privacy and security. Plus, a quality fence adds value to your property, helping you make more money upon sale. However, while a fence does open new opportunities, it also comes with responsibilities. For example, you’ll need to keep your fence clean—and in this blog, you’ll learn how to pressure wash a fence so you can do this work on your own! We are Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, and keeping fences clean is one of our specialties. Need a team of professionals to do this work for you? Then give us a call. It will be our pleasure to serve you next. Why Fences Need to Be Cleaned Before learning how to pressure wash a fence, it’s important to understand why fences need to be cleaned. Over time, these structures gather debris (in fact, all outdoor structures and surfaces do). What sorts of debris can you expect to find on your fence? All kinds, including: When your fence becomes too dirty, you’ll be able to tell at a glance. A fence that needs to be pressure washed will be noticeably darker, duller, and even rougher to the touch. And if you can notice these negative effects, your neighbors probably can, too. Restore your fence’s beauty—as well as the beauty of your property as a whole—with fence pressure washing! How Often Should Fences Be Pressure Washed? Is your fence already overdue for pressure washing? As a general rule, we recommend having your fence cleaned once per year. If it’s already been more than a year since your fence was pressure washed, you’ll want to do something about it. Either plan to learn how to pressure wash a fence or reach out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services for a professional appointment! Some properties may even benefit from multiple fence cleanings per year. This is especially true in the following situations: An Introduction to Fence Pressure Washing When your fence has become too dirty to bear, learning how to pressure wash a fence is the solution. There are many benefits of fence pressure washing that you’ll enjoy. Of course, cleaning your fence will make it look much better than before. Plus, a clean fence lasts longer. Why? Because particles of debris grind against and erode surfaces over time. So, by removing this debris, you prevent it from causing damage in the first place. Finally, by having your fence cleaned, you’ll make your property a more welcoming place. You’ll enjoy peace of mind, and your guests will be impressed by what your home or commercial space offers. For business owners, this can even result in more foot traffic and increased revenue. Tools Required For Fence Pressure Washing Want to learn how to pressure wash a fence? If so, you’ll need to make sure you have the right equipment for the job. We’ve included a bulleted list of everything we use for fence pressure washing below. Which items do you already have, and which ones do you still need? The Fence Pressure Washing Process To pressure wash a fence, you first need to determine how much water pressure to use. Different fence materials require different amounts of water pressure. First, select an appropriate amount of water pressure and add detergent to your pressure washer’s soap tank. Then, choose a starting point for your work; one of the fence’s corners is the best bet. Then, thoroughly wash the fence. We recommend spraying the fence in top-to-bottom columns. Make sure you overlap each pass, ensuring that not even a square inch of surface area goes unwashed! If you come across any stubborn debris that won’t wash away, what should you do? In this scenario, sodium hypochlorite will help you out. By applying a thin layer of this substance to your fence, you’ll break down any tough grime. That way, it can be more easily pressure washed away. (Don’t worry because sodium hypochlorite is eco-friendly and won’t damage your fence or the environment.) Consider Professional Fence Cleaning Learning how to pressure wash a fence is hard work, and it isn’t for everybody. In fact, many property owners in Sherwood, OR don’t have the time and energy for this process. To avoid an exhausting DIY experience, consider professional fence cleaning services near you. For example, Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services will happily pressure wash your fence for a fair price. By scheduling professional fence cleaning, you’ll enjoy quality results without lifting a finger! Contact us online, let us know about your fence, and get a free cost estimate for your appointment. (What you’ll pay is based on the overall size of the fence.) Then, choose a time and date for our arrival, and we will see you soon. We look forward to revitalizing your fence in the near future! Experience the greatness of Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services for yourself. It’s a decision you won’t regret.
How to Choose the Right Junk Removal Service
It becomes frustrating when your home or business is filled with clutter. When this happens, you’ll want to reach out to a junk removal service to get rid of these unwanted items for you. The question is, which company are you supposed to choose for the job? There are many different options for your consideration, and in this blog, we will review them. Learn how to choose the right junk removal service, whether you should try doing the work on your own, and more! At Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, we are happy to help you with your Sherwood, OR junk removal needs. If the time has come to declutter your property, simply reach out to us. We’ll be there soon to remove all unwanted items for your convenience. Why Junk Removal? Before learning how to choose the right junk removal service, you may be wondering: why schedule junk removal at all? It’s inevitable that your property will become cluttered. As we gather new things, we outgrow the old ones. For example: Those unwanted items aren’t going to get rid of themselves. This is where junk removal comes into play. With this service, you’ll be able to get that clutter out of the way, reclaim your space, and restore order to your home or business. Should You Try DIY Junk Removal? Instead of figuring out how to choose the right junk removal service, you could always try to get rid of junk on your own. However, be warned—this might be easier said than done. There are a number of challenges you’ll encounter while doing this work, including: If you’re not prepared for the difficulties of DIY junk removal, don’t worry. There are many professional junk removal companies near you that are willing to help. The hard part is choosing the right one for your project. Let’s take a closer look at how to make an educated decision. Consider Reviews and Testimonials One of the fastest ways you can find out if a junk removal company is worth your time is by checking reviews. Take a look at your local options, and then, look at their ratings on Google and Yelp. This is where you’ll discover what your neighbors think about their area’s junk removal business. Here are some “green flags” letting you know that a company is worth your time: Avoid low-rated businesses with “horror story” reviews: you don’t want to risk your hard-earned money on a business that won’t leave you satisfied. Check Business Schedules Part of learning how to choose the right junk removal service is considering schedules. For example, let’s say that you have a fairly busy lifestyle, and because of this, you’re only available on weekends. If this is the case, a junk removal business that is closed on weekends won’t be able to help you. On the other hand, one that offers Saturday and Sunday appointments will be the perfect choice for you. Some junk removal companies even offer twenty-four-hour scheduling as needed! You may need to request a special appointment, however, to fully take advantage of this offering. Reach out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services—we are prepared to serve you at any hour of any day as long as you let us know ahead of time. Seek Out Eco-Friendly Companies The health of our environment and ecosystem is important. However, not everyone acts like this is the case. In fact, some junk removal companies carelessly dump everything they collect in the landfill. Not all garbage belongs in a dump. Some items can be recycled, and others still can be donated if they are still in usable condition. Part of how to choose the right junk removal services is picking a business that prioritizes eco-friendly disposal. This reduces the strain that we put on our environment and helps keep our landfills less full. Rely on Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services for environmentally friendly disposal. We keep the needs of Mother Earth in mind! Cost of Junk Removal Services When considering junk removal services, you’ll need to keep your budget in mind. At Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, our goal is to clean out your property—not your wallet. Because of this, we offer volume-based pricing. In other words, the size of your project determines the cost of your project. There are no hidden fees or surcharges, and you will always receive an upfront quote at the beginning of your appointment. We encourage you to contact us online and let us know about your junk removal needs today! That way, we can get back to you with a free cost estimate, as well as extra details about our junk removal service. Then, choose a time and date for your appointment, and we will be there soon to serve you. Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services looks forward to helping you reclaim your space from junk in the near future.
How to Wash Windows to Restore Their Beauty
Your home or business, just like every other Lake Oswego property, has windows. These windows play an incredibly important role—they provide sunlight to your property’s interior, and they give you a clear view of the outside world. However, windows won’t be able to do this work without your help. In fact, over time, your windows will accumulate debris, and if you don’t know how to wash windows, you won’t have a reliable method of restoring their shine. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of window cleaning, how to wash windows, and our professional window washing service, too! We are Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, and we look forward to teaching you more about this topic. Why Do Windows Need to Be Washed? Before learning how to wash windows, it’s important to understand why they need to be cleaned in the first place. Windows don’t stay clean on their own—they gradually gather debris, including dirt, pollen, dead insects, bird droppings, etc. This debris negatively affects your windows, robbing them of their beauty and preventing sunlight from entering your property. This results in a worse-looking home or business and increased dependence on electric lights. Dirty windows are also at greater risk of damage. This is because debris that gathers on windows can rub against the glass, etching or scratching it. By reducing their lifespans, debris forces you to replace windows more frequently, effectively wasting your money. By learning how to wash windows, you can keep them clean, enhance your property’s beauty, and avoid the need for expensive repairs. Do My Windows Need to Be Cleaned? If you’re not sure if your windows need to be cleaned, don’t worry. There are several ways to determine if they’re ready for washing. In most cases, a simple visual inspection will tell you everything you need to know. Are your windows visibly covered with debris? Are they noticeably darker and duller than they used to be? If so, don’t hesitate to plan a DIY window washing project. Or, schedule an appointment with our professionals. As a general rule, your windows need to be washed once per year. So, if it’s already been a year since your windows were last cleaned, they are overdue for service. Take action sooner rather than later! Our Window Washing Equipment What tools will you need to wash your windows? At Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, we use a specific set of equipment to restore glass panes for our clients. We’ve included a list of these tools for your convenience: For your DIY window washing project, you may opt for less expensive equipment, such as sponges, a bucket of a gentle cleaning solution (such as warm water and dish soap), and a ladder. Washing Windows to Restore Their Beauty Whether you are using water-fed poles or sponges, the end goal is the same: removing all debris from windows so they can look their best again. We recommend working in a top-to-bottom pattern when cleaning windows, allowing purified water to weaken and rinse away debris. If using water-fed poles, even strokes are the key to restoring cleanliness; if using sponges, careful wiping will remove grime without scratching your windows. We also recommend drying your windows with a squeegee. By doing so, you’ll ensure a streak-free finish! Squeegees pull excess water off the windows, drastically reducing the chance of smears or stains. Using squeegees is also faster and easier than cloth-drying. Remember Ladder Safety When Cleaning Windows If you want to learn how to wash windows on your own, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to use a ladder. Because of this, we want to review some important ladder safety guidelines. Commit these tips to memory and use them to avoid self-injury during your project! DIY or Professional Window Cleaning? Learning how to wash windows can be challenging. In fact, there are several “barriers to entry” that you’ll need to overcome if you want to do the work on your own. You’ll need to find time, which can be difficult if you already have a busy schedule. You’ll need to be prepared for manual labor, which requires you to be rested and energized. And finally, you’ll need to purchase all the necessary equipment for the work. If this is more work than you’re willing to do, why not consider professional window cleaning? By reaching out to a company like Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, you can avoid the DIY process and spend your time and energy in other ways! Get a Free Cost Estimate No need to learn how to wash windows when our professionals do the work for you. If you are interested in what we have to offer, contact us online with information about your project. We will get back to you as soon as possible with a free estimate. (There are never hidden fees.) If you like our asking price, choose a time and date for your appointment, and we will be there to serve you in the near future!
Why Gutter Cleaning Is Important (And Often Overlooked)
Wondering why gutter cleaning is important? Rain gutters play an enormously important role at any home and business. Whenever it rains, gutters gather the falling rain and channel it to the ground. This prevents moisture damage to your property. However, what you may not have realized is that gutter cleaning is necessary if you want your gutters to stay in complete working order. Otherwise, you’re bound to wind up in some trouble. In this blog, discover why gutter cleaning is important with Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services. We are a locally owned and operated business, and we’re excited to teach you more about this topic. Why Do Gutters Get Dirty? Is gutter cleaning really necessary? Well, to answer your question, yes. Over time, gutters collect debris, and this can result in a number of negative consequences. For example, your gutters’ exteriors might become smothered with unsightly debris, such as dirt, algae, dead insects, and bird droppings. The dirtier your gutters’ exteriors become, the less visually appealing they will be. This will result in reduced curb appeal for your property as a whole. This is why gutter cleaning is important, especially if you run a business that relies on foot traffic. It’s not just your gutters’ exteriors that need attention. Their interiors also demand your assistance. That’s because gutters will gradually fill with items such as leaves, sticks, branches, bird nests, and garbage blown in by the wind. What happens if these items aren’t gotten rid of? They will accumulate in your gutters, eventually clogging them. This prevents the flow of rainwater and causes it to overflow from gutters instead. This reintroduces the risk of moisture damage to your home or business. How Often Should Gutters Be Cleaned? How long has it been since your gutters were last cleaned? If it’s been over a year, it may be time to take action. That’s because it only takes twelve months of buildup to seriously hamper your gutters’ functionality. When gutters become clogged with debris, you’ll experience overflowing water, moisture damage, and the need for costly repairs. By ensuring your gutters are cleaned once per year, you’ll avoid this trouble outright. This keeps your property safe, and it also saves you from stress-induced headaches. If it has been years since your gutters were cleaned, you are playing a dangerous game. Instead of figuring out why gutter cleaning is important the hard way, take action as soon as possible. Either plan to do your own gutter cleaning or reach out to a company such as Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services for the assistance you need. The Gutter Clean Out Process Now that you know why gutter cleaning is important, let’s take a closer look at gutter cleaning processes. To begin, let’s focus on gutter clean outs. Cleaning out gutters is the technique of removing debris from your gutters’ interiors. This ensures that rainwater can flow through without being blocked by any clogs. Getting rid of this debris is simple. Here’s how we do it at Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services. We climb a ladder, check inside gutters, and remove any debris we find by hand. Then, we dispose of this debris. Voila—clean gutter interiors. It’s also important to clean downspouts. As it turns out, these parts of your gutters can become clogged, too. However, it’s not always easy to reach inside downspouts. In some cases, we use a plumbing snake to extract downspout debris. Plumbing snakes are long and slender, allowing us to remove even the deepest, furthest-from-reach clogs. Brightening Gutter Exteriors When Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services is on the job, we don’t stop at cleaning out gutter interiors. We go the extra mile and clean gutter exteriors, too. That way, your gutters can look their absolute best—and stunning gutters bring out the best in any property. For this work, we use a soft-bristle brush and a gentle gutter cleaning solution. That way, we can safely remove all debris and leave your rain gunners in stunning condition. Our team works meticulously to ensure every square inch of gutters’ exterior surfaces is spotless. This is a safe and effective process for all gutters, including those made of steel, copper, zinc, PVC, plastic, etc. Is DIY Gutter Cleaning Worth It? Once you have a full understanding of why gutter cleaning is important, you may feel encouraged to clean your gutters on your own. This actually isn’t a bad idea. In fact, many property owners just like you clean their own gutters each and every year. However, you do need to be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. You’ll need to invest your own time and energy into the work. You’ll need to remember ladder safety so you don’t become injured. And, of course, you’ll need to purchase the necessary equipment if you don’t already own it. Ultimately, it’s your decision to make. So, when your gutters need to be cleaned, ask yourself this. Would you rather save time or money? If you need to hold on to every dollar possible, it will be wise to clean your own gutters. Sure, it’s hard work, but by doing this work on your own, you won’t have to pay someone else to do it. On the other hand, if you are short on time and energy, you can avoid the DIY process by scheduling an appointment with a professional business. Schedule Professional Gutter Cleaning! If you want the best possible results out of your gutter cleaning project, look no further than Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services. We are a locally owned and operated business, and it’s always our pleasure to help our neighbors in the Lake Oswego community. If you understand why gutter cleaning is important, but you’d prefer not to do this work on your own, contact us online today. We’ll give you a free cost estimate for your project. (There are no hiden fees at Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services.) Then, you can decide if you’d like to schedule an appointment. If so, we’ll see you soon at a time
What Is Soft Washing? The Gentle, Effective Way to Clean
When you are struggling with a dirty property exterior, it’s only natural to start researching solutions. During your search, you’ll likely come across a technique called soft washing. Many people swear by soft washing as the go-to way to restore homes and businesses, but the question is, what is soft washing? What makes it different from pressure washing? And how can you use the soft washing technique to your own benefit, revitalizing the appearance of your property as a result? In this blog, we will answer all these questions—and more! We are Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, and it will be our pleasure to teach you about soft washing. We are even prepared to soft wash your property for you if necessary; just give us a call. What Is Soft Washing? An Introduction First and foremost, let’s answer that burning question: what is soft washing? It’s a specialized surface cleaning technique that uses low-pressure water to clean surfaces. This is in contrast to pressure washing, which uses high-pressure water. Pressure washing is not a safe choice for all surfaces because of its sheer strength. To avoid surface damage, choose soft washing instead of pressure washing when cleaning the following: Soft washing is relied upon by property owners not just in the Lake Oswego community but all across the world, too. Join many other people just like you, choose soft washing, and enjoy the stunning results that soft washing can provide for your property. Benefits of Soft Washing So, what is soft washing good for anyway? Why should you bother with this service at all? Soft washing has a number of helpful benefits that you will enjoy. First and foremost, it will drastically improve the appearance of your property. Soft washing removes debris from exterior surfaces, making them brighter and more vibrant. As you can imagine, any home or business looks better after soft washing. Don’t hold your property back—use soft washing to give it the boost it needs! This isn’t the only benefit of soft washing, though. Did you know that soft washing also increases the lifespan of exterior surfaces? When surfaces are not cleaned, particles of debris slowly erode them. This damage is not obvious at first, but the longer it is allowed to happen, the more visible it will become. We highly recommend soft washing once per year to fully prevent surface damage and keep your home or business safe. How Cleaning Solutions Help During Soft Washing Soft washing uses less water pressure than pressure washing, as we have already covered. However, this may leave you with a particular concern. If soft washing is weaker than pressure washing, doesn’t this mean that soft washing is an ineffective technique? Is it really capable of removing all the debris that pressure washing can? The answer is yes, and that’s because of the helpful effects of cleaning solutions such as sodium hypochlorite. Using this cleaning solution is simple. At Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, we simply apply a thin layer of it to the area that we plan to soft wash. Then, we wait fifteen minutes so it has time to break down stubborn debris. Finally, we soft wash the area, usually eliminating all grime with ease! Failing that, we will use a second round of cleaning solutions to further weaken debris before removing it for good. Soft Washing Kills Organic Debris Your property might have squatters hiding right under your nose. We’re not talking about people. We’re talking about moss, mold, and algae—organic substances that spread across exterior surfaces like wildfire. These unwanted growths are frustrating for a variety of reasons. Firstly, they don’t look good on your property. Secondly, they increase the risk of surface damage. Finally, they spread spores that will interfere with your eyes, throat, skin, and lungs. The long story short is that keeping organic debris around is a recipe for disaster. The good news is that soft washing is the perfect technique for tackling unwanted organic debris. Cleaning solutions will quickly kill these unwanted growths, and then, soft washing will strip away their remains. This leaves you with a visually appealing property exterior that you and your visitors are sure to appreciate. About DIY Soft Washing Are you considering DIY soft washing? Doing this work on your own may be a good fit for you, but that depends on your preferences. If you are no stranger to DIY projects around the house, and you don’t mind purchasing and learning how to use the necessary equipment, it could be a worthwhile investment. That way, you take on countless soft washing projects in the future. However, if you have a cramped schedule, and if you don’t feel like doing manual labor during your project, consider scheduling an appointment with a professional business. That way, you’ll be able to avoid the hard work and take some time to relax. Keep in mind, though, that professional soft washing comes with a price tag. Is it worth the money to you? That’s ultimately your decision to make. Something else to keep in mind: if you’re asking questions like “What is soft washing?’, then you have a long way to go before you can do this work effectively. Food for thought. Getting Started With Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services What is soft washing? Now that you know the answer, it’s time to figure out your next course of action. If you would like professional soft washing services, look no further than Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services. We are a locally owned and operated business, and restoring property exteriors is our specialty! By scheduling an appointment with us, you’ll avoid the hassle of having to do your own soft washing and enjoy stunning results, too. Ready to schedule an appointment with us? If so, contact us online with details about your soft washing project. That way, we can provide you with a cost estimate for your convenience. If you like our asking price, pick a time and date for our arrival, and we’ll see you
Discover the Stunning Benefits of Pressure Washing
Keeping things clean is always a challenge. It’s no different when it comes to your property’s exterior surfaces. Over time, these surfaces will accumulate a surprising amount of debris, including dirt, moss, mold, algae, pollen, and more. This debris will eventually cause you frustration, but by turning to pressure washing, you’ll eliminate this grime—as well as your headaches. The question is, though, what are the benefits of pressure washing? Obviously, it cleans surfaces, but what makes this so important in the first place? Discover the answers to these questions with Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services! We are a locally owned pressure washing company in Lake Oswego, and we are prepared to teach you more. Of course, if you ever need professional pressure washing services, reach out to us. We’re here to help! Improve the Appearance of Your Property When your property’s exterior is covered with debris, it’s bad news. This is because the dirtier exterior surfaces are, the less visually appealing your home or business will be. For homeowners, this may earn the ire of your neighbors, if not frustrate you personally. For business owners, the consequences are more serious. The less attractive your business is, the less likely it is that you will attract customers—and this hurts your bottom line. Restore your property’s beauty with the power of pressure washing! This is one of the best benefits of pressure washing. With pressure washing, you’ll be able to eliminate surface debris with ease. This makes surfaces brighter and more vibrant. We highly recommend pressure washing your property once per year to maintain its appearance. So, are you already overdue for an appointment? Prevent Surface Damage With Pressure Washing Surface debris doesn’t just negatively affect your property’s appearance. It also increases the chance of surface damage. But why exactly does this happen? Over time, particles of debris will grind against surfaces, which gradually erodes them. Additionally, organic growths (e.g., moss, mold, and algae) store water and cause moisture damage to surfaces. Obviously, you don’t want your property to become damaged because this results in costly repairs. Prevent these repairs from becoming necessary, and you’ll save money! Some surfaces are more prone to damage than others. We recommend that you keep an especially close eye on your roof’s condition. A damaged roof will result in leaks, and those leaks will result in moisture damage becoming a problem inside your property. Again, the best practice is yearly surface cleaning. Prevent Slipping and Skidding Some surfaces are more slippery than others. The question is, what is the cause of this slipperiness? When ice, frost, and oil aren’t factors, surface debris may be the culprit. For example, when an excessive amount of debris accumulates on a driveway, it forms a film of sorts on its surface. This makes it more difficult for your feet to grip the surface, thus increasing the risk of tripping, falling, and injuring yourself. This problem doesn’t just affect pedestrians. It can also wreak havoc on vehicles. If a car’s tires can’t properly grip a surface, it is more likely to skid. This could result in an expensive accident in the worst-case scenario. So don’t let this come to be. Keep your driveway (and other related surfaces) clean to prevent damage and injuries. One of the benefits of pressure washing is that it makes surfaces much less slippery. Create a More Hygienic Environment Hygiene is important, and it goes beyond simply washing your hands. In fact, pressure washing plays a role in creating a more hygienic environment at your home or business. Does your property’s exterior have a moss, mold, or algae problem? These unwanted growths don’t look good, but in addition to this, they also release spores that can irritate your eyes and lungs. By using pressure washing to eliminate these substances, you’ll prevent any possible negative health effects and make your property a more comfortable place. One of the benefits of pressure washing is that it can be used to sanitize surfaces! High-pressure water effectively kills bacteria and viruses, especially when combined with some sort of detergent. We recommend using pressure washing to sanitize playground equipment, outdoor furniture, pool areas, etc. Keep your guests safe and reduce the spread of disease this way. Prevent Pest Infestations With Pressure Washing The final benefit that we’ll point out is that pressure washing actually helps prevent pest infestations. But how? When debris accumulates on surfaces, it draws in pests such as ants, termites, and spiders for two different reasons. Firstly, organic debris acts as a food source for these unwanted creepy-crawlies. Secondly, debris provides shelter, allowing bugs to gather, thrive, and eventually reproduce. This means more pests—as well as an increased risk of them further spreading across your property. Pressure washing will eliminate any surface debris, meaning pests won’t be drawn to your property. So, instead of bothering you and your family, they’ll flock to different areas. We think you’ll agree that this is a better outcome for you and those unwanted guests. Enjoy More Benefits With Professional Services What are the benefits of pressure washing? As you’ve discovered, there are many ways that this surface cleaning technique will improve your property. However, doing this work on your own is complicated and comes with a unique set of challenges. You’ll have to find time for pressure washing, and you’ll need to purchase all the necessary equipment, too. To enjoy even more benefits of pressure washing, schedule an appointment with a professional business—such as Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services! We are a locally owned pressure washing company, and we would love to take on pressure washing projects for you. That way, you don’t have to dedicate yourself to this difficult task. You can simply relax and spend the time however you want while our experts handle the work for you. Get started by contacting us online with information about your project. We’ll get back to you ASAP with a free cost estimate. There are no hidden fees at Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services.
How to Get Oil Stains Out of Concrete: A Complete Guide
Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, it’s incredibly likely that you have some sort of concrete surface on your property. In most cases, it’s simple to keep these surfaces clean. Some basic pressure washing is typically enough. However, there are unique cases that require special attention. Yes, we’re talking about oil stains! If you’re on this webpage, it’s probably because you are trying to learn how to get oil stains out of concrete. Well, good news because you’re about to discover the process. We are Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, a local pressure washing company in Lake Oswego. We have removed oil stains from our clients’ concrete many times before, so trust our concrete cleaning experience and keep on reading to learn more! What Makes Oil So Hard to Remove? As you’ll quickly discover, learning how to get oil stains out of concrete is tough. But why? What makes it any different from dirt, pollen, moss, mold, or algae? First, understand that oil is quickly absorbed by concrete. This is because concrete is porous, allowing oil to soak into it with ease. Once oil molecules have bonded to the concrete’s internal surfaces, it’s quite difficult to get out. Even the process of pressure washing isn’t enough to remove oil in some cases. That’s because oil repels water. So, it’s naturally resistant to pressure washing and other similar techniques. When learning how to get oil stains out of concrete, prepare to use new strategies that may be completely unfamiliar to even seasoned DIYers. Preventing Oil Stains When Possible Since learning how to get oil stains out of concrete is so challenging, it’s best to prevent them whenever possible. If you discover that oil has recently spilled on your concrete, take quick action to stop it from deeply penetrating the surface. Perhaps the best way to do this is with an absorbent material. We recommend cat litter. Simply apply a generous helping of cat litter to the area. Then, wait thirty minutes to an hour for it to soak up as much oil as possible. Finally, sweep up the cat litter. This should drastically minimize the amount of oil that soaks into your concrete. Don’t have cat litter? Don’t worry because there are other materials that will work in a pinch. Consider using baking soda or corn starch. It’s very likely you already have these helpful items stocked in your pantry. Treating Deep Oil Stains Unfortunately, not all messes can be prevented. It’s possible that your oil stain has already soaked so deeply that you can’t absorb it with cat litter. In this scenario, it’s time to prepare for a more in-depth oil stain removal process. The first step of this process is treating the oil stain with a cleaning solution. But what kind of cleaning solution should you use? There are actually quite a few options for your consideration, including: Once you have selected your cleaning solution of choice, apply a thin layer of it to the area afflicted by oil stains. Then, wait ten to fifteen minutes. After this time has passed, use a stiff brush to scrub the area. This will loosen grease and further distribute the cleaning solution across the concrete surface. Removing Oil With Pressure Washing An important part of learning how to get oil stains out of concrete is pressure washing. That’s because highly pressurized water can shatter the bonds between oil and concrete, especially if the area has been pre-treated with a cleaning solution. Plus, since concrete is so durable, you can pressure wash with an extremely high level of water pressure. We recommend using 3,000 to 3,500 PSI. Remember to wear safety equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and closed-toe shoes, when handling pressure washing gear. To pressure wash oil stains, simply position yourself two feet away from the concrete and thoroughly rinse the area. The pressurized water will deeply penetrate the concrete, helping you remove even the most stubborn oil molecules. This should significantly brighten your oil stains if not get rid of them altogether. Benefits of Removing Oil Stains There are many benefits to removing oil stains from your concrete. The first and most obvious advantage is that it will improve your concrete’s appearance. This will improve the property’s appearance, too, even increasing its value. The sooner you tackle that oil stain, the less likely it is to become permanent, so don’t waste time—strike now or regret it later! Another benefit of removing oil stains from concrete is that it will make the surface less slick. This means a reduced chance of pedestrians tripping. It also makes it less likely that vehicles will skid or slide on the concrete. Prevent automobile accidents, save money, and protect the safety of you and your visitors. Need Professional Oil Stain Removal? Learning how to get oil stains out of concrete isn’t easy. Far from it. From acquiring all the right equipment to spending your time and energy doing the work, there are many reasons you may want to avoid this project. The good news is that you can have professionals clean your driveway for you! By reaching out to Alpha Exterior Cleaning Services, you’ll be able to schedule an appointment with our fully trained experts. Contact us online, let us know about your oil-stained concrete, and receive a free cost estimate. Then, choose a time and date for your appointment, and we will be there in the very near future!