How can I get my building exterior cleaned?

Buildings take a beating over time. They’re exposed to wind, rain, dirt, stains, and so much more. We all know the old saying about only getting one chance to make a first impression, and the exterior of your commercial building could be that one chance.

Here are some things to consider in getting your building exterior cleaned.

Type of exterior

There are many types of materials that can be used on the exterior of a commercial building. Newer buildings might be concrete or EIFS exteriors, while older buildings might be brick, stucco, or limestone. And, of course, you also have buildings where the exterior is a mix of materials. You’ll want to match the cleaning method to the type of exterior, so it’s important to correctly identify it first.

Condition of exterior

The condition of the exterior is another important factor to consider before having your commercial building cleaned. If your exterior is brick but the mortar is flaking and crumbling, you could cause serious damage using a power washer. A limestone exterior with extensive staining will need more careful attention than an EIFS exterior that’s nearly brand new.

Cleaning method

Once you’ve identified your type of exterior and evaluated its condition, it’s time to pick a cleaning method. Options include high pressure water blasting, low pressure chemical cleaning, sand blasting, chemical stain removal, and dry ice blasting, among others.

It’s always best to start with the gentlest method possible and step up if needed for more stubborn areas. Always read the instructions and research precautions of any cleaning method to make sure you don’t damage your exterior by using the wrong method.

Maintenance staff or contractor

When it comes to the actual cleaning process, the task could fall to your maintenance staff or could be contracted out to a specialist in commercial building cleaning and restoration. If you plan to use your maintenance staff, be sure they’re properly trained and have experience in cleaning your type of exterior. We’ve seen many companies try to save money by using their existing staff only to end up paying more money to fix damage that happened from using the wrong cleaning method.

If you’re in need of a professional company to help with cleaning your commercial building exterior, call us today! We have extensive experience cleaning all types of exteriors.