The exterior of a commercial building serves as the first impression for potential customers, clients, and visitors. Over time, it's not uncommon for various stains and contaminants to accumulate, detracting from the overall appearance of your property. These stains can be stubborn and unsightly, but they are no match for the power of pressure washing. In this article, we will explore the top 10 common stains on commercial buildings and how to effectively remove them using pressure washing.

1. Dirt and Dust Stains:

Dirt and dust can accumulate on the exterior surfaces of your commercial building, leading to a dull and dirty appearance. Pressure washing is an efficient solution to blast away these contaminants and restore the building's cleanliness.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Start with a lower pressure setting to prevent surface damage, and gradually increase it as needed to remove dirt and dust.

2. Algae and Moss:

Algae and moss thrive in damp and shaded areas, often appearing as green or brown growths on exterior walls. Pressure washing effectively removes these biological contaminants and helps prevent regrowth.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Use a pressure washer with a 25-40-degree nozzle and a mixture of water and an algae/moss-killing detergent for best results.

3. Mildew Stains:

Mildew stains are often characterized by dark spots and patches on the exterior surfaces. Pressure washing can quickly eliminate mildew, making your building look clean and well-maintained.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Start with a low-pressure setting and a mildew-killing detergent. Allow the detergent to sit for a few minutes before rinsing with high-pressure water.

4. Rust Stains:

Rust stains can occur from metal fixtures or surfaces coming into contact with moisture. Pressure washing can effectively remove rust stains from concrete, brick, or stone surfaces.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Consider using a specialized rust stain remover in combination with pressure washing for more stubborn stains.

5. Oil and Grease Stains:

Parking lots and garages are common areas for oil and grease stains, which can make your building look unsightly. Pressure washing is a powerful solution for eliminating these stubborn stains.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Use a hot water pressure washer for more effective removal of oil and grease stains. Consider pretreating the stains with a degreasing detergent.

6. Paint Stains:

Accidental spills or vandalism can leave paint stains on your building's surfaces. Pressure washing is an effective method for removing paint, whether it's latex or oil-based.

- Pressure Washing Tip: For fresh paint stains, use a pressure washer with hot water to increase the likelihood of complete removal.

7. Water Stains:

Water stains can be left behind on building surfaces by sprinklers or roof leaks. Pressure washing can effectively eliminate these stains and restore the exterior's appearance.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Adjust the pressure setting to avoid causing further damage to the surface. Use a water stain remover if needed.

8. Chalk Stains:

Chalk stains can result from children or artists using the exterior of your building as a canvas. Pressure washing can quickly remove chalk marks and keep your property looking professional.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Start with a low-pressure setting and use a mild detergent to remove chalk marks without causing damage to the surface.

9. Bird Droppings:

Bird droppings are not only unsightly but can also cause damage to building surfaces over time. Pressure washing is an effective way to remove these stains and prevent further damage.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Use a pressure washer with hot water to help break down the bird droppings and make removal easier.

10. Graffiti:

Graffiti is a common issue for commercial buildings. Pressure washing, especially when combined with graffiti removal detergents, can help erase graffiti and vandalism from exterior surfaces.

- Pressure Washing Tip: Adjust the pressure setting and nozzle type based on the surface material to avoid causing damage during graffiti removal.

Pressure Washing Best Practices for Stain Removal:

When using pressure washing for stain removal on your commercial building, it's essential to follow best practices to ensure the best results and prevent damage to the surfaces. Here are some key guidelines:

1. Safety First: Ensure that operators and technicians are trained in using pressure washing equipment safely. Provide the appropriate safety gear, including goggles, gloves, and protective clothing.

2. Adjust Pressure Settings: Start with a low-pressure setting and gradually increase it as needed to remove stains. Avoid using excessive pressure to prevent surface damage.

3. Use Appropriate Detergents: Select the right detergents and cleaning solutions for specific stain types. Test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the detergent doesn't damage the surface.

4. Pre-treat Stains: For stubborn or deeply ingrained stains, consider pre-treating the area with the appropriate detergent and allowing it to sit for a few minutes before pressure washing.

5. Rinse Thoroughly: After pressure washing, make sure to rinse the surface thoroughly to remove any remaining detergent or debris. This prevents streaks and ensures a clean finish.

6. Protect Nearby Objects: Cover nearby plants and property to prevent damage from overspray or runoff. Take precautions to protect any items that could be affected by the pressure washer.

Conclusion: Restoring Your Commercial Building's Shine

Regular pressure washing is a powerful tool for maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of your commercial building. Whether you're dealing with common stains like dirt and dust or more challenging issues like graffiti, pressure washing can effectively remove these contaminants and restore your property's aesthetics. By following best practices, using the appropriate detergents, and adjusting pressure settings, you can ensure that your commercial building maintains its professional and welcoming appearance, making a positive first impression on customers, clients, and visitors.