Most Bay Area homes need a full exterior pressure wash every 12–18 months. Homes near the coast, under heavy tree cover, or with significant north-facing wall area should wash annually. Driveways and walkways benefit from cleaning every 12 months. Gutters need clearing twice a year — once in spring and once before the winter rains.
The Bay Area's climate is uniquely hard on house exteriors. Cool fog, persistent moisture, salt-laden air near the bay and ocean, and heavy tree cover (redwood, oak, eucalyptus) all combine to grow mildew, algae, and biofilm faster than in drier climates.
Here's the realistic schedule for Bay Area homes:
House exterior — every 12 to 18 months
Most homes can go 18 months between full exterior washes. Stucco, painted siding, and vinyl all hold up well in our climate. Soft washing sanitizes the surface — algae and mildew take 12–18 months to return.
Wash annually if any of these apply:
- Within 2 miles of the coast (salt-fog mildew is constant)
- Heavy tree canopy directly over the home
- Significant north-facing wall surface (no direct sun = persistent moisture)
- Hill or canyon location with morning fog drainage
Driveways and concrete — every 12 months
Driveways collect oil drips, tire rubber, leaf tannins, and algae year-round. Annual cleaning resets the surface and prevents staining from setting permanently.
Gutters — twice a year
At minimum, clear gutters in late spring (after spring debris) and again in late October before the winter rains. Homes with heavy tree cover (especially redwood, oak, or eucalyptus) need quarterly clearing.
Skipping a gutter cleaning before the rainy season is the single most common cause of fascia rot and foundation water issues we see in Bay Area homes.
Decks and patios — annually
Wood decks should be washed every 12 months — and re-stained or re-sealed every 2–3 years depending on sun exposure. Composite decks need a wash every 12 months but no re-finish.
Commercial — monthly to quarterly
Storefronts in foot-traffic areas need monthly sidewalk and storefront cleaning to stay compliant with city sidewalk ordinances and to keep curb appeal. Parking lots benefit from quarterly washing.
The signal to wash sooner
Don't wait for the calendar — wash when you see any of these:
- Black or green streaks on north-facing walls (mildew)
- Slippery patio or sidewalk (algae — slip hazard)
- Oil pooling visible on driveway (will set and stain permanently)
- Gutters overflowing during the first rain (already clogged)
- Visible spider webbing in eaves and corners (insect buildup)