Weather, foot traffic, pollution, and other factors can cause wear and tear on commercial buildings over time. Dirt, gunk, mildew, and stains accumulate faster than most owners anticipate. You require a regular cleaning schedule in order to keep your property looking professionally − and away from being dangerous. One of the best ways to accomplish that is with pressure washing.
So, how often do you need to do it? To put this in perspective for a commercial property, here is a clear breakdown of what it would amount to.
Outdoor Walls: Once or Twice a Year
The exterior of your building is the first thing customers see when they head to your business. Particularly hot zones, pollutants, dust, and microbial growth start building up rapidly.
Pressure washing works for most commercial building:
- Once a year in mild climates
- In areas with more humidity, or in urban spots: every six months
The soot and airborne contaminants that can accumulate in the air near a busy road or industrial zone may necessitate more frequent cleanings. Commercial pressure washing services know what to do, so you can be sure the proper method is being used for your building materials.
Sidewalk and Entries: Quarterly or as Needed
The sidewalks, walkways, and storefront entries trap gum, oil, spills, and all of the residue left by heavy foot traffic. These areas can also be dangerous if they are not kept clean or free of slippery surfaces.
Having them cleaned professionally every three months helps:
- Prevent slip-and-fall hazards
- Keep entrances looking welcoming
- Kill off bacteria, mold, and organic matter
For a facility that receives hundreds of visitors a day, a monthly cleaning would be needed to ensure cleanliness and safety.
Parking Lots and Garages: Two Times Per Year
Parking lots attract the likes of oil stains and tire tracks, dirt, and runoff. After some time without pressure-washing the accumulation will make it particularly difficult to remove.
Clean parking stalls at least biannually to:
- To increase the life of the bitumen surface.
- Improve visibility of painted lines
- Minimize dirt designated to find its way into the building
On the other hand, a high traffic retail center or medical facility is going to need more frequent maintenance.
Roofs: Every 1–3 Years
Moss, algae, pollutants, and debris will accumulate on commercial roofs. Different surfaces require different methods of cleaning − but high-pressure cleaning is never appropriate for roofs. Instead, soft washing can be a much better option.
Depending on climate and if you are near any live vegetation, schedule a roof cleaning every 1 to 3 years. The entry of dirt and natural debris will affect the energy efficiency of the roof, while the less ideal state and operation of the roof system will cause damage in the long run.
Trash Panes and Load Zones – Month to Month
These locations experience regular spills, grease, and heavy equipment traffic. If not disposed of regularly, they also become a health hazard.
Monthly pressure washing helps:
- Control odors
- Reduce pest attraction
- Keep surfaces hygienic
Cleaning might need to take place twice a month at eateries and supermarkets.
Final Thoughts: Consistency Matters
Power washing is above all a maintenance obligation, not merely an aesthetic one. Regularly cleaning your building also protects the customers who enter your building, as well as bolstering your brand image. It also ensures that every surface is treated in the right way and at the right time which can only be done by working with professionals.
If in any sort of doubt, organize an inspection and have a tailored plan drawn up by a provider you have confidence in. Your commercial property will look better, age better, and run safer throughout the whole year.
