Reno’s environment doesn’t play fair.
Dry winds, wildfire ash, dust storms, and freezing winters all leave behind layers of grime you won’t see until it’s damaging your property.
This post breaks down seven signs it’s time to schedule professional pressure washing in Reno — and why acting early saves you money, keeps your home safer, and boosts your curb appeal.
Why Exterior Cleaning Matters in Reno’s Climate
Reno’s dry air, dust storms, and wildfire residue create a perfect storm for grime.
- Dust clings to siding
- Pollen sticks to windows
- Smoke stains surfaces
- Snowmelt causes buildup in low areas
If left unchecked, it turns into mold, mildew, and long-term wear.
Long-Term Effects of Skipping Pressure Washing
Neglect leads to:
- Peeling paint
- Rotten trim
- Slippery sidewalks
- Stained concrete
- Premature repairs
Letting things sit means higher costs down the line. Regular washing keeps your home protected.
1. Discoloration or Fading on Siding
If your siding looks patchy or two-toned, it’s not just sun — it’s grime.
Watch for:
- Dark streaks under windows
- Green or black stains
- Chalky white residue on painted walls
A South Reno homeowner restored their beige stucco to its original color in one visit.
Check this: Move your patio chairs or BBQ. If the color underneath looks completely different, it’s time.
2. Mold, Mildew, or Moss
Mold isn’t just ugly. It spreads and damages materials fast.
It shows up as:
- Green fuzz on wood
- Black spots in corners
- Slippery slime on concrete
Mold traps moisture. Moisture destroys wood and siding.
A Truckee home near the trees had mold across one wall—one pressure wash took care of it and stopped it from coming back.
Pressure washing removes:
- Mold spores
- Mildew smells
- Allergy triggers
3. Slippery Walkways or Driveways
One rain + one layer of grime = a bad fall waiting to happen.
It’s not just dirt. Reno’s weather makes walkways slick:
- Rain feeds mildew
- Tree sap coats concrete
- Oil and tire stains build up fast
A Lemmon Valley job restored grip on a driveway so slick it was a hazard to kids and seniors.
If you’ve slipped in your socks recently, schedule a clean.
4. Spider Webs, Nests, or Bird Droppings
Looks bad. Attracts pests. Eats away at your paint.
Webs under eaves, wasp nests in the corners, and bird droppings on the railing? Time to clean.
HOA managers in Fernley rely on pressure washing to stop these messes before they invite infestations.
Pro tip: If you pressure wash twice a year, you’ll deter spiders and birds from nesting again.
5. Cloudy or Dirty Windows
If the glass stays hazy after you clean it, it’s not the window — it’s what’s around it.
Grime around the frame traps:
- Pollen
- Dust
- Smoke particles
Window cleaning in Reno clears the glass. Pressure washing clears the rest of the problem.
Try pairing it with Lemmon Valley window cleaning for full results.
6. Stained Decks, Patios, and Outdoor Furniture
That darkened concrete isn’t just dirt — it’s embedded grime.
Look out for:
- Grease under your grill
- Moldy deck boards
- Water spots on your patio seating
Carson City customers added years to their deck’s life by clearing layers of gunk that were eating away at the wood.
7. Getting Ready to Sell or Host
Buyers notice. So do guests. Curb appeal sets the tone before anyone steps inside.
A Truckee home sold within 3 days after a deep clean and pressure wash — the agent said the clean exterior sealed the deal.
If you’re staging, listing, or hosting a BBQ—schedule a clean the week before.
FAQs: Pressure Washing in Reno
How often should I pressure wash?
- Once a year for most homes
- Twice a year if under trees or near construction/dust
Is it safe for older homes or paint?
Yes — with soft washing.
Pros adjust pressure and solution strength to avoid damage.
Pressure washing vs soft washing?
- Pressure washing: Uses force, best for hard surfaces like concrete
- Soft washing: Uses low pressure + detergents for delicate areas like siding and roofs
Why Hire a Pro?
DIY pressure washing goes wrong — fast.
Common mistakes:
- Etching concrete
- Stripping paint
- Damaging window seals
Commercial-grade gear runs circles around rented units. And pros know how to use it without causing damage.
Backed by a licensed Reno team with insurance? You’re covered.
Where We Work
We service:
- Midtown Reno
- South Reno
- Damonte Ranch
- Caughlin Ranch
- Sparks
- Tahoe
- Fernley
- Carson City
- Truckee
- Lemmon Valley
From HOAs to single-family homes to storefronts — we’ve got you covered.
When to Book
Spring – After snowmelt, before pollen coats everything
Summer – Clear grime before outdoor entertaining
Fall – Clean surfaces before snow and freezing weather hit
👉 Seasonal offers available for Fernley and Lemmon Valley residents
Ready to Book?
Get a fast quote on Reno pressure washing services
Or browse full service options and contact us to schedule.
We show up. We clean it right. You enjoy a spotless home.