Pressure Washing, Gutter Cleaning, Gutter Guards & Exterior Maintenance: California Edition
Pressure-washing PSI must match the surface (concrete 3000, wood 1200). Pre-treat with detergent before pressure washing. California gutters need cleaning twice a year, more if you have oaks or pines. Stainless micro-mesh gutter guards last 20+ years. Re-stain decks every 2 years.
California's marine air, oak leaves, pine needles, and Santa Ana winds create a unique exterior maintenance schedule. Skip these for a year and you start losing curb appeal.
Pressure Washing: PSI by Surface
The mistake amateurs make: same pressure on every surface. The right approach:
- Concrete (driveway, patio): 2,500-3,000 PSI, 25° tip
- Wood (deck, fence): 1,200-1,500 PSI, 40° tip, work with the grain
- Vinyl siding: 1,500 PSI max, 40° tip
- Stucco: 1,500 PSI, soft wash with detergent first
Wood at 3,000 PSI etches the wood. Stucco at 3,000 PSI strips the finish.
Pre-Treat Before Pressure Washing
The pressure does not actually do most of the cleaning. The detergent does. Pre-treat with Krud Kutter, let it sit 5-10 minutes, then pressure wash.
Gutter Cleaning: Twice a Year, Minimum
California schedule:
- Late spring (after spring blooms drop). Clear bloom debris before summer fire season
- Late fall (after leaves drop). Clear leaves before winter rains
Homes with oaks or pines may need cleaning 3-4 times a year.
Gutter Guards: Worth the Money on Tree-Lined Lots
Stainless steel micro-mesh gutter guards keep oak leaves and pine needles out while letting water flow. Foam guards collapse, plastic guards crack in UV. Only stainless mesh lasts 20+ years.
Cost: $5-$8 per linear foot installed. Pays back versus 2x annual gutter cleaning over about 4-5 years.
Deck and Fence Staining: California Sun Edition
California UV destroys unprotected wood. Re-stain decks every 2 years and fences every 3-4 years. Thompson's WaterSeal is UV-resistant and applies in one coat.
Graffiti Removal: Speed Matters
Graffiti is much easier to remove in the first 48 hours. After a week, it has cured into the surface and may need pressure washing + degreaser + repainting.
What We Charge
Our exterior service: driveway pressure washing $200+, patio $175+, fence $150+, gutter cleaning $199+ (1-story), gutter guard installation $5-$8/linear ft, graffiti removal $150+, deck repair $299+, fence repair $249+.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pressure washing cost?
Driveway $200+, patio $175+, fence $150+. Adjust based on square footage and stains.
Are gutter guards worth it?
Yes for tree-lined lots. Pays back vs annual cleaning in 4-5 years and they last 20+.
How often should I clean gutters?
Twice a year minimum. Late spring and late fall. More if you have oaks or pines.
Can I pressure wash a wood deck?
Yes, 1,200-1,500 PSI max with a 40° tip, working with the grain. Stain or seal within 30 days after washing.
Tools & Products We Use on Every Job
Need a Pro in California?
Insured, background-checked handymen. 4.9☆ rated. Same-day available.
Book Online Now →