Frequently Asked Questions
Wood Restoration | Roof Cleaning | House Wash | Driveway Cleaning | Patio Cleaning | Gutter Cleaning | Fleet Washing | Building Wash | Window Cleaning | Concrete Cleaning | Gum Removal | Commercial Kitchen Hood Cleaning

Q: Do you use high pressure to clean decks?

A: If you are comparing the water pressure that we use to clean decks to your faucet pressure then the answer would be yes. Now in terms of pressure washing, we do not use high pressure for deck cleaning. Cleaning pressures for decks are set between 500 and 800 PSI. High pressure will cause damage to the wood surfaces.

Q: What kinds of stains do you use?

A: We use only the highest quality stains that are produced by a stain manufacturing companies, not a paint company that happens to make stain. Since these companies ONLY produce stain, they have come up with the best formulas for longevity. Unless it is a solid stain that the customer requests, we use only oil based stains.

Q: Why did you choose oil based stains over the more environmentally friendly water based stains?

A: Well now, this is probably the best question I have ever had. As you know, decks and fences require maintenance which includes adding periodic maintenance coats of stain. With water based stains, the correct way to perform this maintenance is to strip the old stain away and then recoat it. This requires the use of some very powerful chemicals to properly clean the wood surfaces.

With our oil based stains, there is no stripping required when adding a maintenance coat. Just a light washing to remove any dirt or debris and then you apply the next coat. Because our stains are non film forming, the removal of that film is not required. All water based stains are film forming stains.

Q: Why don’t you like film forming stains?

A: Have you ever seen a deck that was flaking and peeling? We do not like film forming stains because they do not last and they require more maintenance. Some of these film forming stains seem like nothing more than thinned out paint. If you can flake it off with a fingernail, it is a film forming stain.

Q: What do you seal the deck with after staining?

A: Exterior deck stains are not like the stains used on furniture. Deck stains have a combination of drying and non-drying oils that work in combination to seal and stain the wood surface in one step.

Q: How long will the stain last?

A: That all depends on many factors, i.e. sun exposure, rain, snow, heat etc. Generally speaking, horizontal surfaces will require maintenance coats every 2 years and vertical surfaces every 3-5 years. The difference being that horizontal surfaces get walked on, and they also tend to have more water on them than the vertical surfaces.

Q: Why does wood turn gray and can you bring back out the color?

A: Wood turns gray because it is being exposed to water and the sun. In order to prevent your wood from turning graying, stain and seal your deck or fence every 2 years.

 

Can you really get the gum removed from the sidewalk?

Yes we can. In some instances there may be a shadow left, but that is from age. The longer the gum sits on the concrete the more chance there is of a shadow being left behind. We recommend at least a quarterly cleaning for gum removal.

What are the benefits of pressure washing?

Regular cleaning will lengthen the life span of your home’s siding, shingles, wood, and concrete. Pressure washing adds CURB APPEAL, thus increasing the value of your home. A clean house will reduce the amount of mold, algae, and fungus tracked into the interior of your home.

Is an outdoor water source needed?

No a water source is not required, but saves you money. If we provide the water, there is an additional fee.

Is it more effective when you clean with heated water?

Heated water cleans more effective than cold water. It works the same way as when you wash dishes.

My contractor said my siding and deck are zero maintenance is this true?

Low maintenance yes, zero maintenance no. Anything left outside in the sun and humidity will get dirty. Your car gets dirty sitting in your driveway, so does your house and deck.

What are these dark stains on my siding and can they be removed?

The dark stains you are seeing is mold. All mold needs to grow is moisture (humidity) and a food source and it will grow anywhere. Mold can be removed with low pressure and the right chemicals.

What are these black streaks on my gutters and can they be removed?

The black streaks on your gutters are in the oxidation layer of the paint. The black streaks can be removed with low pressure and the right chemicals.

What is this white powdery stuff on my masonry and can it be removed?

The white powdery stuff is called Efflorescence. It is caused when water seeps through and dissolves salts inside then evaporates leaving the salt on the surface. It can be safely removed with chemicals and proper protective measures.

 

Q: When should my roof cleaning service be completed?

A: A roof cleaning in Louisville, Kentucky is usually most effective from late March to early December. The average temperature is usually above 50 degrees during this time period.

Q: Why is temperature important to roof cleaning?

A: Once the average temperature is above 50 degrees, the algae will open up and come out of a dormant stage. When the algae is open and growing is the most effective time for roof cleaning chemical to do its job.

Q: When should I schedule a roof cleaning by Veteran Power Wash LLC?

A: By scheduling a spring roof cleaning service during the colder months, a Louisville, KY homeowner, will be able to schedule a date that works best for them. Veteran Power Wash LLC offers discounts to Louisville, Kentucky homeowners who schedule their services in advance.

Q: How can I learn more about roof cleaning services in Louisville, KY and schedule a FREE roof stain removal estimate?

A: More information on roof algae, roof stain removal, roof cleaning process, and a free no obligation estimate can be found at Roof Cleaning Louisville ( roofcleaninglouisville.com )

Q: What is the safest method for cleaning my roof?

A: A trusted source for safe roof cleaning are the technical bulletins put out by The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (They are an organization that represents the largest shingle manufacturers in the United States) and ELK/GAF (The largest shingle manufacturer in North America). Both of these technical bulletins provide the only cleaning solution that they consider safe to clean asphalt shingles without voiding the shingle warranties. Veteran Power Wash only uses cleaning solutions approved by ARMA (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association).

Q: Will Veteran Power Wash use a pressure washer to clean my roof?

A: No. Veteran Power Wash only uses a No Pressure Roof Cleaning Method. The Roof Cleaning Chemical is applied using less pressure than that found out of a garden hose. Using a pressure washer will void the shingle warranty and cause premature failure of asphalt shingles.

Q: Is roof cleaning harmful to my landscaping?

A: Yes and NO. Let me explain... In the hands of a Veteran roof cleaner, precautionary measures are taken before, during, and after the roof cleaning process to prevent any damage to landscaping. Veteran Power Wash has adopted all safety practices for both personnel and vegetation in it's employee handbook.

BUT...

In the hands of an inexperienced roof cleaner, a roof cleaning solution will kill any vegetation it comes in contact with. After all, it is designed to kill the algae, lichen, and moss growing on a roof.

Q: Where would be a good place for a homeowner to learn more about roof cleaning?

A: There are several web sites that discuss roof cleaning, there are only 2 places that are strictly roof cleaning only. RoofCleaningForums.com and the Roof Cleaning Institute of America.