🧼 What Does House Washing Include? A Complete Guide for Kiwi Homeowners

When was the last time you gave your house a proper clean—not just the inside, but the outside too?

If your home’s exterior is looking a bit tired, house washing might be just what it needs. In New Zealand’s humid climate, mould, lichen, mildew, dust, and salt spray can quickly take hold on your home’s surfaces. A professional house wash not only restores your home’s street appeal—it also protects your property from long-term damage.

So, what exactly does house washing include? Let’s break it down.

🏠 What Is House Washing?

House washing is a comprehensive exterior cleaning service designed to safely remove grime, algae, mould, and other contaminants from your home’s outer surfaces. Most companies in New Zealand use a method called soft washing, which combines low-pressure water with eco-friendly detergents to clean without damaging the surface.

✅ What’s Included in a House Wash?

1. Exterior Walls

This is the core of any house washing service. Professionals clean:

  • Weatherboard cladding
  • Brick or concrete block walls
  • Stucco and roughcast surfaces
  • Vinyl and aluminium siding

Low-pressure washing ensures the surface is thoroughly cleaned without stripping paint or damaging finishes.

2. Windows (Exterior Only)

A house wash often includes an exterior window clean, removing:

  • Dust
  • Water spots
  • Bird droppings
  • Bug stains

Windows are usually rinsed as part of the wall wash, but some companies offer spot-free finishes as an optional extra.

3. Doors, Frames & Surrounds

Front doors, garage doors, sliding doors, and their frames are cleaned to remove grime, cobwebs, and fingerprints. This helps enhance your home’s curb appeal instantly.

4. Eaves, Fascias & Soffits

These often-overlooked areas can accumulate dirt, spider webs, and mould. A house wash includes gently washing:

  • Eaves (under the roof overhang)
  • Fascias (the horizontal boards)
  • Soffits (the underside of your roof edges)

5. Gutters & Downpipes (External Clean)

While full gutter clearing is usually a separate service, house washing includes cleaning the exterior of your gutters and downpipes to remove tiger striping, mould streaks, and algae.

6. Fixtures & Fittings

Outdoor light fixtures, security cameras, taps, power meters, and even letterboxes are carefully cleaned as part of a thorough house wash.

7. Verandas, Porches & Entryways

Steps, railings, and entryway surfaces are gently cleaned—especially important if you’re preparing for guests or looking to boost street appeal for selling or renting.

🔧 Optional Add-Ons

Depending on the company you choose, the following services may be offered alongside house washing:

  • Deck cleaning
  • Fence washing
  • Driveway or path water blasting
  • Roof washing or moss treatment
  • Interior gutter cleaning
  • Mould and lichen treatment for stubborn areas

🧽 How Often Should You Wash Your House?

In New Zealand, it’s recommended to wash your house at least once every 12–18 months, or more often if you live near the coast or under trees. Regular washing:

  • Prevents long-term paint damage
  • Stops mould and mildew in their tracks
  • Protects timber and cladding from premature wear
  • Helps maintain your property value

🌿 Is House Washing Safe?

Yes—when done properly. Professional house washing services use biodegradable detergents and low-pressure water systems to clean thoroughly without damaging paint, wood, or sealants. It’s a safer, longer-lasting alternative to harsh high-pressure blasting.

🚿 Final Thoughts

A quality house wash is more than just a quick rinse. It’s a full-service clean that protects your biggest asset—your home. Whether you’re sprucing things up for summer, prepping to sell, or just doing your annual maintenance, house washing makes a visible difference.

If you’re in Auckland, Christchurch or Tauranga and looking for reliable, affordable house washing, we’re here to help.
👉 Learn more about our House Washing Services

 

Request A Quote