When we handle pre-paint washing for brick in East Chattanooga, TN, it comes down to three things: protecting your plants and property, cleaning with the right method, and walking the job with you at the end. On brick, the method we use is low-pressure wash.
The right method for the job
Cleaning solution: Soft wash for algae and mildew; a masonry-specific cleaner for efflorescence and mortar haze.
Cleaning brick safely
Brick is tough, but the mortar joints are softer than the brick itself, and older soft-fired brick can pit. Organic growth comes off with a soft wash; mineral deposits such as efflorescence need a masonry-safe cleaner instead of more pressure.
Avoid: Zero-degree tips and close-range blasting that erode mortar joints, and strong acids on brick that hasn't been pre-wet.
How often: Every 2-3 years for most homes.
Is it time for pre-paint washing for brick?
- You're about to paint or stain the house
- Chalky residue comes off on your hand
- Mildew or dirt under the old paint
What causes the dirt and stains
- Paint chalking as it ages
- Mildew that will grow through new paint if not killed
- Dirt that weakens adhesion
What you can do yourself
- Ask your painter what prep they need
- Allow siding to dry for the time the paint maker recommends before painting
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
What can go wrong with DIY pressure washing
- Painting over mildew, which bleeds through
- Too much pressure that damages wood or drives water into the wall
- Painting before the wood is dry
Our process for pre-paint washing for brick
- Coordinate with your painter
- Protect plants and fixtures
- Kill mildew and wash the surface
- Remove loose chalk and dirt
- Leave the house to dry before painting
How much does pre-paint washing for brick cost?
What moves the price:
- Size: square footage of siding, roof or flatwork
- Condition: heavy growth, old stains and peeling finishes take longer
- Access: number of stories, roof pitch, slopes and how close we can park
- Add-ons: sealing, gutter brightening and other services done in the same trip
These are typical U.S. ranges, not a quote. You get an exact price before any work starts. For a quick estimate, try the pressure washing cost calculator.
Other services for brick
- Pressure Washing for Brick
- Soft Washing for Brick
- House Washing for Brick
- Driveway Cleaning for Brick
- Sidewalk & Walkway Cleaning for Brick
- Patio Cleaning for Brick
- Paver Cleaning & Sealing for Brick
- Rust Stain Removal for Brick
- Graffiti Removal for Brick
- Efflorescence Removal for Brick
- Exterior Mold & Mildew Removal for Brick
- Commercial Pressure Washing for Brick
- HOA & Apartment Pressure Washing for Brick
Serving East Chattanooga, TN and nearby towns
Mildew and algae are the main reason Tennessee homeowners wash their siding. Shaded walls can turn green within months, and pressure alone doesn't kill the growth, so we use a soft wash solution that does.
Spring pollen season in Tennessee coats houses, cars, screens and patios in a yellow-green film, and pollen gives mildew something to feed on. Many homeowners book their wash after pollen season ends so the house stays clean longer.
Red clay soil is common in parts of Tennessee. Rain splashes it onto the bottom of the siding, walls and walkways, and its iron-rich color can stain light surfaces. It usually needs a dedicated clay or rust cleaner rather than pressure alone.
Besides East Chattanooga (ZIP codes 37404, 37406 and 37411), we handle pre-paint washing for brick in East Ridge (3.5 mi), Chattanooga (3.7 mi), Red Bank (4.1 mi) and Lakeview, GA (6 mi). Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote in East Chattanooga.
Pre-Paint Washing for Brick: frequently asked questions
How much does pre-paint washing for brick cost in East Chattanooga, TN?
Pre-Paint Washing for Brick typically costs $250-$600 for a typical home exterior, and usually takes 2-4 hours plus dry time. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for pre-paint washing for brick?
For brick: usually 500-1,500 PSI with a wide fan tip, held well back from the mortar. What we avoid: zero-degree tips and close-range blasting that erode mortar joints, and strong acids on brick that hasn't been pre-wet. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is pre-paint washing for brick safe for my plants and pets?
We pre-wet plants and lawns, keep cleaning solutions diluted to what the surface needs, and rinse landscaping again when we finish. Keep pets and children inside until surfaces are rinsed and dry.
How often should I schedule pre-paint washing for brick?
Every 2-3 years for most homes. Shade, nearby trees, humidity and heavy traffic mean more frequent cleaning; sunny, dry spots can go longer. Our free cleaning frequency tool gives a recommendation for your climate.
What if it rains on the day?
Light rain doesn't stop most washing, but heavy rain, high wind, lightning and freezing temperatures do. If the weather isn't right, we reschedule at no charge. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.