Frequently asked questions

Twice a year works for most homes — spring after pollen season and fall before the heavy rains. Homes in shaded areas or near busy roads may need three cleanings. Commercial storefronts often go monthly or quarterly depending on foot traffic and location. AWP Exterior Cleaning services properties across Oregon and Western Washington, and we adjust recommendations based on your specific climate and exposure.

No, as long as we have access to an outdoor water spigot and any gates are unlocked. We'll contact you when we're done and leave before-and-after photos if you're not there. For window cleaning that includes interiors, someone needs to be home to let us in.

Not if it's done correctly. We adjust pressure based on the surface — concrete gets high-volume surface cleaning, vinyl siding gets soft-washed at low pressure. Using too much pressure on siding forces water behind the sheathing or strips paint, which is why we use low-pressure chemical cleaning for those surfaces.

The moss dies within a few days and then weathers off naturally over 2-4 weeks as rain and wind break it down. We can rinse it off immediately after treatment if you want faster visual results, but letting it weather off naturally is gentler on the shingles.

Late spring through early fall, when you get consistent dry weather. The wood needs 48 hours of dry weather after cleaning before we can apply stain, and then another 24-48 hours for the stain to cure. May through September is the most reliable window in Oregon and Western Washington.

Yes. Gutter guards slow debris accumulation but don't eliminate it. Fir needles and moss fragments still build up on top of the screens and need to be cleared off. We remove the debris from the guards and check that water is flowing through properly.

We use biodegradable solutions and pre-wet plants before applying chemicals, then rinse everything thoroughly afterward. Sodium hypochlorite (the active ingredient in most soft wash solutions) breaks down into salt and water after application. We've never had plant damage when proper rinsing is done.

Most single-family homes with 20-30 windows run $150-$300 for interior and exterior cleaning, including screens. Larger homes or properties with difficult access (steep roofs, multi-story exteriors) cost more. Call Chris at (503) 440-0472 for a phone quote if you tell us the window count.

Oregon's climate is perfect for organic growth — wet fall through spring, then warm summers. North-facing walls and shaded areas stay damp longer and grow moss faster. Soft washing kills the growth at the root level and leaves a residual effect that keeps surfaces cleaner for 18-24 months.

Pressure washing uses high water volume at moderate pressure to lift dirt and growth off hard surfaces like concrete. Soft washing uses low pressure and chemical solutions to kill organic growth on delicate surfaces like siding and roofs. Soft washing is safer for most exterior surfaces and results last longer.

Yes. Many customers set up twice-yearly window cleaning or annual gutter cleaning on a recurring schedule. Commercial properties often go monthly or quarterly. Recurring customers get priority scheduling and usually a small discount compared to one-time service pricing.

One to two weeks is typical for most services during spring and summer. Fall gutter cleaning books up fast — schedule by early October if you want service before the leaves drop. We service properties across Oregon and Western Washington, so travel logistics and weather windows affect scheduling.