How often should you pressure wash your house in Melbourne?

Keeping your exterior clean helps your home look great and last longer. In Melbourne the weather moves from hot summers to cool and wet winters. That mix brings dust, pollen, mould and traffic grime. So how often should you book a clean?

The short answer

Most homes in Melbourne do well with a full house wash every 12 to 18 months. Some homes need cleaning sooner. Use the guide below to choose the right timing for your place.

Factors that change the schedule

1. Shade and moisture

   Shaded walls and south facing sides stay damp. Mould and algae grow faster here. Clean every 6 to 12 months.

2. Trees and gardens

   Overhanging trees drop sap, pollen and leaves. Plan a wash each spring or early summer.

3. Roads and rail

   Homes near busy roads or tram lines collect soot and dust. Aim for every 9 to 12 months.

4. Coastal suburbs and bayside wind

   Salt and sea spray can mark paint and metal. Clean every 6 to 12 months and rinse in between if needed.

5. Surface type

   Painted render and weatherboards like a gentle soft wash more often. Brick needs less care. Use the surface guide below.

6. Events

   After long renovations, storms, heavy pollen in spring or bushfire smoke, book a one off wash.

Surface by surface guide

1. House exterior

   Soft wash every 12 to 18 months. Shaded or tree lined sides may need a light clean at 6 to 12 months.

2. Driveways and paths

   Pressure clean every 12 months. High traffic or oil prone driveways may need a top up at 6 months.

3. Decks and fences

   Clean yearly. If you plan to stain or seal, wash just before you do the work.

4. Roofs

   Gentle roof wash every 2 to 3 years. Rinse gutters more often to keep water flowing.

5. Gutters

   Clear every 6 months. In leafy streets, check at the end of autumn and again in late spring.

Signs it is time to clean

1. Green or black patches on walls or eaves

2. Dusty film on windows that returns soon after rain

3. Brown or orange stains on concrete from soil or rust

4. Slippery paths after light rain

5. Paint that looks dull even after a hose down

Why regular washing matters

• Stops mould and algae from spreading

• Protects paint and sealers so they last longer

• Keeps paths grippy and safe

• Lifts street appeal for photos and open homes

Melbourne timing tips

• Spring is great for a full wash. You clear winter grime and get the home ready for summer.

• Late summer works well for driveways after holiday traffic and heat.

• Before you sell or repaint, always wash first so paint and coatings stick.

DIY or professional

Light jobs like a garden path are fine if you know your machine. For walls, render, timber and roofs, a soft wash by a pro is safer. The right method uses low pressure and the correct mix. This cleans well without harm to paint, seals, plants or pets.

Simple care between visits

1. Rinse lower walls with a garden hose after dusty wind

2. Trim plants away from walls to let sun and air in

3. Sweep or blow leaves off paths each week

4. Fix leaking taps and gutters so walls stay dry

How to set your schedule

1. Start with a full soft wash now

2. Mark a reminder for 12 months

3. If you see new growth or stains before then, move the next clean forward to 6 to 9 months

4. Keep notes on what you notice and adjust