TOP 5 Exterior Cleaning Mistakes Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Last updated on August 16, 2025

Exterior cleaning is exhausting, but it is 100% necessary. This must-have routine should be made regularly, at least once a season. Otherwise, your sweet home will look bad. 

When homeowners do exterior cleaning, they often make some mistakes that decrease the value of their homes in the long run. If you want to prevent that or simply lack the time to accomplish the exterior cleaning on your own, consider leaving a quote for expert power washing services that will make your home shine bright like a diamond. 

Are you wondering about the specific mistakes the homeowners make and would like to avoid them? Expert cleaners will share the information about these common mistakes right away.

What's Inside

TOP 5 Exterior Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

power washer exterior

Generally, homeowners make several mistakes when doing exterior cleaning:

  1. Neglecting regular inspections. Many homeowners often do surface cleaning only. They clean the walls, windows, and driveways as well. However, this checklist is not complete. For instance, you should draw special attention to the state of your roof. Any, even minor cracks, may turn into big problems over time. Additionally, it is crucial to inspect the foundation. Overall, neglecting regular inspections may cost you a lot in the long run. It is always better to devote a few hours to this endeavor to prevent more serious damages and higher costs, respectively. 
  2. Choosing the wrong cleaning solutions. Applying harsh chemicals is the first thing to highlight. Even if you want to get rid of all the solid dirt entirely, there is no need to do that at the cost of the surface’s appearance. Instead, draw attention to more gentle chemicals that will act effectively without damaging the surfaces to which they are applied. Eco-friendly products are no less effective but much safer for you as well. Another common mistake is applying chemicals inappropriately to the surface. 
  3. Neglecting the power of pre-cleaning. It is essential when you have terribly solid dirt and grime. They both act as barriers for the chosen cleaning products, preventing them from cleaning the surfaces well. Before applying the chosen products, spend some time on pre-cleaning. The best option is to do that by using a soft brush and slightly warm water. 
  4. Working fast and haphazardly. Exterior cleaning requires time because the grime and dirt on various surfaces can accumulate over a long period and are often quite stubborn. Being in a rush when removing them is not a good idea since you can easily damage the target surface in this way. Another common mistake that many homeowners make is cleaning the surfaces haphazardly. However, the best solution is to move from top to bottom. This approach will make your effort more effective and less time-consuming. 
  5. Ignoring safety measures. Negligence in this case is particularly dangerous. Wearing protective gear has to be your top priority before starting any exterior cleaning. Essentially, you will need clothes that can be easily discarded, gloves, goggles, and sturdy shoes with a good grip. 

Bottom Line 

The single solution that can help you avoid these mistakes is to involve professional cleaners in the process. Specialists will clean and maintain your home well, saving your precious time and efforts for other more valuable and pleasant things to do!