When to Pressure Wash Your House in Houston
Houston's heat and humidity grow algae fast. Here's how to know it's time, and the best months to schedule.
The Short Answer
Most Houston homes should be pressure washed (or soft-washed) once every 12–18 months. North-facing walls, shaded sides, and homes near big trees often need it every 9–12 months because of green algae and black streaks.
Best Time of Year in Houston
- March – May (best): Dry enough, mild temps, gets you ready for summer entertaining.
- October – November (also great): Knocks off summer pollen, mildew and storm grime before holidays.
- June – September: Fine, but hot. Schedule early morning slots.
- December – February: Possible on dry days; surfaces dry slower.
7 Signs You're Overdue
- Green or black streaks on siding, especially the north or shaded side.
- Black "tiger stripes" running down your roof shingles.
- Driveway has dark patches, oil halos, or a dull gray film.
- Fence is graying or has black mildew spots.
- Walkway is slippery when wet (that's algae).
- Wasp/dirt dauber nests under eaves.
- You're listing your house — clean exterior raises perceived value 5–10%.
Pressure Wash vs Soft Wash — Which Do You Need?
Pressure (high-PSI) washing is for hard surfaces only: concrete driveways, walkways, brick, pavers. Around 2,500–3,500 PSI.
Soft washing uses low pressure (under 500 PSI) plus a cleaning solution that kills algae at the root. This is what should be used on:
- Vinyl, fiber-cement, and stucco siding
- Painted brick
- Roof shingles
- Wood fences and decks (gentle pressure + brightener)
Hitting siding with high pressure forces water behind it, blasts paint, and voids siding warranties. Always insist on soft-wash for the house itself.
What It Costs in Houston
- Driveway only: $149 – $250
- Driveway + walkway + entry: $199 – $349
- Whole-house soft-wash (single story): $349 – $549
- Two-story home soft-wash: $549 – $899
- Roof soft-wash: $0.30 – $0.55 per sq ft
- Fence brightening: $1.50 – $3.50 per linear foot
Bundling driveway + house + fence usually saves 15–25%.
DIY or Hire It Out?
Renting a pressure washer runs $80–$120 a day plus gas. Adequate for a driveway. Not adequate for siding or a roof — wrong tip = thousands in damage. If the job involves anything above 8 ft, hire a pro with a ladder, surface cleaner, and proper soft-wash chemistry.
Ready for a fresh exterior?
Bros On Call soft-washes and pressure washes across Houston, Sugar Land, Katy & Pearland. Free same-day quotes.