The secret to house washing for aluminum siding is using the right method, not the most pressure. In North Carolina, we match the cleaner and pressure to the surface so it comes out clean without damage. For aluminum siding, that means soft wash.
How we clean it
Cleaning solution: A gentle detergent solution; strong cleaners can dull the finish further.
Cleaning aluminum siding safely
Older aluminum siding often has a chalky, oxidized finish. Washing removes dirt and mildew but also removes loose chalk, which can make faded panels look patchy. If the finish is badly oxidized, washing is usually the prep step before repainting.
Avoid: High pressure, which dents thin panels and strips chalky paint unevenly.
How often: Every 1-2 years.
Signs you need house washing for aluminum siding
- Green or black film on the shaded sides of the house
- Dirt splash along the bottom of the walls
- Cobwebs and wasp nests under the eaves
- Chalky or dull-looking siding
- You're planning to paint, sell or list a rental
Where the grime comes from
- Mildew and algae in shade and humidity
- Rain splashing soil onto the bottom courses
- Pollen, dust and road grime
- Spiders and insects under the soffits
What you can do yourself
- Rinse small areas with a garden hose and a soft brush on an extension pole
- Use a mild detergent made for siding, not household bleach straight from the bottle
- Clear plants and furniture away from walls before a wash
- Look for loose siding, open seams or damaged caulk before anyone washes the house
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Water driven under siding laps and into wall cavities
- Broken window seals and water inside the house
- Stripped paint, raised wood grain or etched stucco from high pressure
- Ladder falls while spraying
What happens on the day
- Walk the house and point out problem areas or damage
- Cover outlets, lights and fixtures, and pre-wet landscaping
- Apply a soft wash solution from the bottom up
- Rinse from the top down at low pressure, including eaves and soffits
- Rinse plants, check windows and walk the house with you
Typical house washing for aluminum siding prices
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 aluminum siding
House Washing for Aluminum Siding in North Carolina
Mildew and algae are the main reason North Carolina 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.
Parts of North Carolina are exposed to hurricanes and tropical storms. After a storm, washing removes mud, debris and salt spray from siding, screens and walkways. Check for damage first: loose siding, broken screens and roof damage need repair before anyone washes them.
Near the coast, salt air leaves a film on siding, windows, screens and railings that dulls finishes and speeds up corrosion on metal. Regular rinsing and washing help protect them.
Spring pollen season in North Carolina 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 North Carolina. 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.
We cover 320 cities and towns across North Carolina. Find house washing for aluminum siding in your city:
- Charlotte
- Raleigh
- Greensboro
- Durham
- Winston-Salem
- Fayetteville
- Cary
- Wilmington
- High Point
- Asheville
- Greenville
- Concord
House Washing for Aluminum Siding: frequently asked questions
How much does house washing for aluminum siding cost in North Carolina?
House Washing for Aluminum Siding typically costs $300-$700 for a typical 1,500-2,500 sq ft home, and usually takes 2-4 hours. 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 house washing for aluminum siding?
For aluminum siding: soft wash, typically under 500 PSI. What we avoid: high pressure, which dents thin panels and strips chalky paint unevenly. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is house washing for aluminum siding 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 house washing for aluminum siding?
Every 1-2 years. 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.