Categories
Uncategorized

Pressure Washing Scams to Watch Out For

We’ve been offering pressure washing and power washing services to homeowners and businesses in and around the Long Island area for over two decades. While we’ve put all our time and energy into improving our skills and growing our business, there are unfortunately some companies that have appeared (and then disappeared) that didn’t have such good intentions. That’s right, we’re talking about scams and we’re going to talk about some of the most common ones in this article.

Common Pressure Washing Scams to Be Aware Of

Avoiding scams is all about looking out for red flags that may indicate that something is not quite right. Remember though, these are not iron-clad rules written into “The Pressure Washing Bible”, so a perfectly legitimate company may do some of the following things. But if enough of these red flags are displayed, it’ll likely be apparent that the contractor pitching to you is up to no good. Listen to your gut!

Pricing That Is Unbelievably Low

No one can pressure wash an entire home exterior for $50 and make any money. It’s just not doable. It’s true that some newer pressure washing companies do offer low rates initially to try and gain some traction, but it’s also a very common tactic used by scammers.

They draw you in with a very low price – everyone loves a great deal – and once you’ve agreed to hire them, they may either ask for a deposit and then disappear, or they may cut corners and complete the job well below the standard that you expect.

The question you have to ask yourself is “why is this pressure washing company offering such a good rate?” If they aren’t a new contractor trying desperately to build a client base, it is really quite suspicious. Never base your decision on price alone!

Contractors offering very low prices will likely not have the proper insurance or equipment (or both), and will not invest the necessary time into the work you’ve asked them to do.

Door to Door Sales

Now we’re not condemning all companies that go door to door trying to drum up some sales as scammers. Many companies do this when starting out, as it’s a very quick and affordable way to market their services to their target market. But it is often a tactic that scammers like to use. They can put you on the spot, and it’s often much easier to talk someone into hiring a service in this situation than it is via phone or email. So be on your guard.

If you do let them examine the areas that you would like pressure washing, be wary if they quote a higher price because of the presence of algae or difficult to remove stains. This is a common tactic that is used to bump up the estimate, but in reality, no extra work is required.

If you’re not sure whether what they’re saying is true, get some quotes from other contractors before committing.

Using “Special” Cleaning Solutions

Like with the “difficult stains” this is another gimmick that you shouldn’t fall for. These days, the biodegradable or eco-friendly card is often used to bump up the price of products and services. In some cases, it’s justified. But this is not one of those times. The truth is that most of the cleaning solutions manufacturers recommend are not getting any more biodegradable than they already are. If a contractor is using this ploy to try and bump up your bill, they don’t really have your best interests at heart. It’s not a cut-and-run scam, but they’re still intentionally massaging the truth to extract more of your hard-earned money from you, without providing anything additional in return.

Insisting On Payment Upfront and In Cash

The payment terms that are requested are sometimes an indicator as to how likely it is that the contractor is a scammer. The biggest red flag is if the only form of payment they accept is cash, and they’re asking for the full amount to be paid upfront. If you comply, there’s a good chance that you’ll never see them again.

Never pay the full amount in advance. You only pay once the work has been done. Reputable contractors may sometimes ask for a small deposit upfront, depending on the size of the job, but never the full amount.

The Best Way to Avoid Being Scammed?

The absolute best way to avoid being scammed is to do your homework before you commit to working with any pressure washing contractor, us included. Here are a few things that you can do to have more of an idea of whether a particular company is reputable or not:

  • Look at Online Reviews – Any company that has been operating for a few years will have some online reviews. Angie’s List is a good place to start. It’s better to check 3rd party platforms as opposed to profiles that the company has control over (like on their own site or Facebook). Also, it’s better if they are “Verified” reviews. Reputation is everything.
  • How Long Have They Been In Business? – Try to find out how long the company has been in business. The longer they’ve been up and running, the more you have to think that they must be fulfilling their commitments. That’s not to say all new companies are dishonest, but they’re a blank canvas currently, and you can’t draw much information from a blank canvas.
Categories
Uncategorized

Why Windows Need to Be Cleaned Regularly

Unless you spend all day sleeping or you live underground, your windows are probably a very important part of your home. They are responsible for allowing light to filter through into your home’s interior and they offer you a view of the outdoors. Both such simple things, but oh so important too.

But did you know that windows – while such an important element in any home – are typically one of the most overlooked parts of the home when it comes to cleaning. Floors, worktops and furniture are all top priorities for most homeowners, but windows are often left to gather dust.

But it shouldn’t be that way. There are lots of important reasons for ensuring window cleaning is a task that is done regularly.

Six Reasons Why Regular Window Cleaning is a Must

“A bit of dirt never hurt anyone”. That’s what you might think, but dirty windows can have more negative impacts than you probably imagine. Here are a few of the more important ones.

Less Light Gets into Your Home

Depending on the orientation of the room, it’s possible that very little light might make its way into the room to start with. Combine that with a layer of dirt and it may be reduced to next to no light. Letting dirt buildup is like having a film attached to the window that blocks the light. Window washing and cleaning ensure that this film isn’t allowed to form.

It Spoils Your View of the Outdoors

Have you ever worn a pair of glasses or sunglasses that are absolutely filthy? It gets annoying pretty quickly, right? The dirt and dust obscure your view of the outside world. But at least with glasses, you can just take them off and…problem solved. But when it comes to your windows, your vision is obscured all of the time. Until you clean them, that is.

Dirt Accelerates Wear and Tear

You don’t need me to tell you that your windows are one of the most expensive elements of your home. They cost a small fortune to replace when the time finally comes. And if it comes at the wrong time, may even force you to take out a loan. So it makes sense to do everything within your power to ensure they last as long as possible.

It might seem insignificant, but dirt and grit can be abrasive and when blown about by the wind can result in more wear and tear on your windows, shortening their lifespan. Window cleaning slows that process right down!

Dirty Windows Seriously Dent Curb Appeal

Failing to keep your windows clean can seriously dent the curb appeal of your home. This may not impact your day-to-day living, but it can greatly impact what others think about your home. And if you plan on selling your home, this becomes super important. When potential buyers come to view your property, they need to be able to imagine themselves living there. Dirty windows do not help to bridge the gap between their current reality and the new home they have in their imagination. It’s an instant turn-off and reduces your chances of success when it comes to selling.

Leads to Poorer Air Quality

Windows and natural light are important for your mental health and wellbeing. Ask anyone that lives in a country located in the extremes of the northern hemisphere, where they live in almost complete darkness during the winter period. Rates of depression in these countries are higher, and it’s no coincidence. As we said, that natural light is super important!

But you maybe didn’t realize that clean windows are also much better for your physical health too. If window cleaning is not done regularly, windows are a real magnet for dirt and dust, and that lowers the air quality in your home. This is bad for anyone, but particularly for people that have a respiratory condition. If windows are not cleaned, it may also lead to mold growth. Which again, is not good for your physical health.

Heating Costs May Increase in the Winter

We’ve already talked about how dirty windows can block out the sunlight. But it’s not just the light that they’re blocking out. As you know, sunlight also provides heat and in winter this heat can be very useful in helping to bring down your heating costs. If you allow sunlight to filter in during the daytime, you can then use drapes to retain this heat and you won’t need to have your heating system on for so long.

However, when windows are dirty, sunlight is blocked and this heat energy doesn’t enter the interior of your home. So you can see that window cleaning is an investment that can provide a noticeable financial return.

Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? Call the Long Island Window Cleaning Pros

We understand very well that window cleaning and washing can be a real time suck for lots of Long Island homeowners, and it’s not something that most people enjoy. If that accurately describes your situation, why not let us handle it instead? We have over 20 years of experience and can whip even the dirtiest windows into shape in next to no time for a very reasonable fee.

To enjoy looking through windows that look as clean as the day you had them installed, contact our window cleaning team by calling (631) 421-2295.

Categories
Uncategorized

Eight Things That Should Never Be Pressure Washed

Pressure washing is great. Of course, our professional pressure washing team isn’t exactly unbiased, but it is. It’s a super-effective way to clean a wide variety of different surfaces that would otherwise require hours of manual scrubbing. But that doesn’t mean that you should power wash everything. In fact, there are some things that it would be downright dangerous to pressure wash.

In this post, we’re going to talk about a number of different things that you shouldn’t even think about pressure washing.

In no particular order, here are a number of things commonly found at residences around Long Island and the rest of the country that you wouldn’t want to pressure wash. If you did, the results could be disastrous.

Don’t Pressure Wash Asphalt Shingles

There are many roofs around America lined with asphalt shingles and if you’ve ever looked at them closely, you’ll notice that they’re lined with little granules. While they’re small and easy to miss, they are in fact very important in protecting the roof against damage. And they’re also the reason why pressure washing and asphalt roofs don’t mix. It’d remove these all-important granules.

Pressure washing up a ladder also isn’t the best idea…

Don’t Pressure Wash Electric Panels or Meters

Even though these things are always (or should be) encased in some pretty heavy-duty protective coverings, the fact is that they’re not designed to withstand the kind of water pressure they’d face if a pressure washer was aimed at them. So don’t do it! Pressure washing electric meters and the like could result in water getting inside, causing damage that is costly to repair.

Don’t Pressure Wash Walls with Old Mortar

You might think that you can point a pressure washer at any wall and it’d be fine. But that’s not the case. Older walls that are held together by old mortar can be seriously damaged by a pressure washer. You’re more likely to blow parts of the wall away than you are to clean it. And then you’ll have an unexpected repair cost to deal with.

Don’t Pressure Wash Porches or Other Painted Surfaces

Using a pressure washer on porches and other painted surfaces around the outside of your home can potentially be a bad idea. If the pressure is set too high, it will quite likely strip the paint right off your porch. And I’m sure that’s not the way you had planned on getting your porch to look clean. If you absolutely must use a pressure washer on these kinds of surfaces, make sure to set it to a lower pressure setting.

Don’t Pressure Wash Stained Wood

If you have some outdoor furniture sitting in your backyard, there’s a good chance that this one may apply to you. Wooden garden furniture needs to be stained to protect the wood from weather and pests – it’s very important for the preservation of your furniture. The problem with using a pressure washer on stained wood is that it will not be stained afterward. Water sprayed at high pressure will take the stain right off.

Don’t Pressure Wash Surfaces Coated in Lead Paint

If you have recently bought or live in an older property, it’s quite possible that the property may contain one or more walls that is covered in lead paint. Before 1970, it was widely used, but has subsequently been found to be highly toxic and can have a severe impact on your health. For that reason, it’s important that once lead paint is found, it is carefully removed, contained and then disposed of. Pressure washing doesn’t fit the bill! It’ll send fragments flying in all directions and it will then be very difficult to ensure you remove all traces of the lead paint.

Don’t Pressure Wash Guttering

Come on. Don’t be lazy. I know most of us like to take the easy option, but sometimes it can really come back to bite you! And this is likely to be the case when it comes to cleaning out guttering with a pressure washer. Yes, it’ll blow all of the debris out of there much quicker than you could remove it by hand, but it’ll also probably pull the gutter right off the house, possibly damaging your downspouts in the process. Not to forget, as mentioned earlier, that using a pressure washer while standing on a ladder is seriously dangerous!

Don’t Pressure Wash Your Garden Lights

I think you’ve probably spotted a recurring theme by now. Pressure washing and sensitive objects are not a good mix! It’s common sense when you think about it, but many do not find this out until it’s too late. Next time you’re tempted to give your outdoor light fixtures a “quick clean” think about broken glass, as that’s what happens next.

Call the Pressure and Power Washing Experts of Long Island

With over 20 years of industry experience, the pros at Majestic know exactly what can and cannot be cleaned with a pressure washer, and we know how to get the best results too. So forget worrying about the damage this type of cleaning might do to your property, and revel in the benefits. Our service will completely rejuvenate the outside of your home, boosting curb appeal and increasing your enjoyment of your personal space.

We offer a service that is completely tailored to your needs. To find out more or to book an appointment, contact our team by calling (631) 421-2295.

Categories
Uncategorized

How Long After Power Washing Can You Paint?

Today’s the day. After numerous delays – family events, smaller DIY tasks inside, uncooperative weather – you can finally tackle the long-awaited exterior house painting project that’s been on the back burner. Blue skies and nothing but sunshine. But first, the siding looks a little dingy and definitely needs to be cleaned before you can paint. If you’ve decided to go the DIY route rather than hire professional Long Island power washers, we’ll offer some advice to help you get the results you need.

As you know, house siding accumulates a thin film of dirt, chalk, and other debris, and even if it’s not easily visible, it’s critical to remove all detritus before you start painting. The worst thing you could do is paint over dirt or minuscule debris which will eventually bleed through the paint, possibly forcing you to scrape or power wash all over again. The most effective way to clean your siding is to use a power washer.

PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR POWER WASHING

As the name implies, power washing uses a high-pressure stream of water to remove loose mold, paint, grime, mud, dust, chewing gum, and dirt from objects and surfaces like buildings, vehicles, and hard surfaces. To prepare your home’s siding for power washing, closely examine it for any cracks or gaps. If you find any of these areas, you may want to wash these spots by hand as a full-blown power wash could result in unintended damage.

Also make sure breakable objects are removed from the area or otherwise covered, as debris dislodged by the power washer could fly and break glass lighting, windows, and other fragile items. Pets and children should be kept away from the area that’s being washed, and we always recommend that homeowners refer to power washer documentation for operating instructions and tips on safety equipment to wear during power washing.

LONG ISLAND POWER WASHING TIPS

  • Please remember to use a power washer carefully, as the water jets can easily further damage wood or vinyl siding which may already be in questionable shape. Unless you’re careful, the pressure can effortlessly gouge wood siding or dislodge mortar from between bricks. Also, don’t be surprised if you still have to scrape a few spots, as even experienced power washing services may have to do the same. Pressure washing can be used on aluminum, wood, vinyl siding, and masonry, but we don’t recommend it for moisture-vulnerable hardboard siding, which is very hard to fix if it’s accidentally gouged.
  • Save time, money, and effort by renting a power washer that puts out 2,000 pounds per square inch and plan on keeping it overnight, just in case.
  • Pair a six-foot extension wand with the right nozzle, usually a 15- or 20-degree model. A zero-degree should be avoided unless you’re an experienced professional.
  • Don’t drive water directly into visible cracks or gaps in the siding.

HOW LONG AFTER POWER WASHING CAN YOU PAINT?

There are numerous factors that determine the time needed for Massapequa area homeowners to paint after using a power washer. The three most obvious are:

Moisture within the siding following power washing

In a perfect world, you should wait about three to four days afterward before you start exterior painting. This gives typical surfaces like wood, brick, and other porous materials time to fully dry. It’s never a good idea to paint onto still wet surfaces. For example, if the wood beneath the siding is drenched, the paint may begin to bubble. When the siding is hot, moisture escapes from the wood, leading to visible imperfections.

Weather Conditions

You never want to paint when it’s raining. Humidity and cold temperatures in waterfront towns like Massapequa and Oyster Bay can affect the waiting time between washing and applying paint. These conditions add moisture to the air, meaning it could take longer for any surfaces to dry. If you try power washing under these conditions, only bad things will result. Our advice? Simply wait until dryer weather before you think of exterior painting.

What about kinds of paint?

The kind of paint you want to use also is important. If you power wash on a rain-free, sunny day, you can likely begin painting within 24 hours using latex-based paint. Oil-based paints should only be applied to fully dried surfaces, so you’ll need more time between power washing and painting.

Using a power washer is a big undertaking, most likely one you’ve committed to in anticipation of an even larger project. You may be preparing your home for a large family gathering, or getting ready to work with a realtor and sell it, and believe your residence would benefit from a fresh coat of paint.

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU SHOULDN’T CLEAN WITH A POWER WASHER?

If you have any doubts about what can or can’t be cleaned with a power washer in Brookville, Melville and nearby communities, please call our professional Long Island pressure washers for more information on services in Seaford, Wantagh and nearby communities. Generally speaking, you should never use power washing on:

  • Windows
  • Electric meters, or anything electrical for that matter
  • Asphalt shingles
  • Gutters and downspouts
  • Structures with old brick or crumbling mortar
  • Motor vehicles
  • Stained or fragile surfaces
  • Light fixtures

WORK WITH A TRUSTED PROFESSIONAL

Majestic Windows & Exterior Cleaning has been a preferred window cleaner and pressure washer for hundreds of customers in Nassau and Suffolk counties and neighboring communities for more than 20 years. Whether you’re a residential or business customer with big or small power washing needs, contact us today at 631-421-2295 to arrange a no-obligation inspection.

Categories
Uncategorized

Twelve Tough Stains That Pressure Washing Can Remove

If you’ve got a tough cleaning job ahead, it’s only natural to wonder what’s the fastest and most effective way to get the job done. Let’s say you’re renovating your first house and realize the cement patio’s been painted several times, or you’d like to freshen the siding with a coat of paint but it’s a filthy mess. You can, of course, attempt to remove paint the old-fashioned way – with lots of elbow grease and only-god knows how many paint scrapers. Or, you could call a Long Island pressure washing professional for some quick advice.

Most pressure washers have a tank and special nozzle for dispensing soap or cleaning solutions. Depending on your cleaning task, there’s probably a purpose-made cleaning solution that might speed the job along and make it a bit easier. Degreasers are ideal for driveways, and a multipurpose house wash solution will assist in removing detritus from siding or patio surfaces.

Calcium and lime deposits

Fountains, pools, retaining walls, and other hard surfaces can accumulate calcium and lime sediments over time. Hard water creates such mineral deposits which are hard to remove. Scale can also be removed by experienced pressure washing services.

Chewing gum

Ahh, chewing gun – it’s not just for your bedpost overnight. It’s simply one of the stickiest, hardest things to remove from any surface, like concrete driveways and other kinds of hard surfaces. Pressure washing works wonders on nasty gooey globs, even if there hardened and been trampled in place. The trick is utilizing hot water while spraying the gum to get it to melt. Using a 4000 pounds-per-square-inch (psi) setting and working the surface in a fan pattern should remove it quickly.

Deck stains

Yes, pressure washing can remove a deck finish, but it demands precise care, so you don’t damage the deck. A pressure setting of 1500 psi should suffice. Hold the sprayer approximately 3 inches off the deck and move the sprayer in the same direction as the grain.

General-purpose stains

Pressure washing experts will add specialized detergent to the water, turning the tool into a powerful stain remover. With the right cleaning solutions, you can lift stains from wood and vinyl siding, driveways and walkways, paving stones, decks, and other materials. You can even use a power washer to lift stains off the roof of your house. Most detergent mixes work on all kinds of stains left by dirt, leaves, and other detritus from algae, built-up grime, and other stains.

For unusually tough stains, pretreat with the soapy mixture and a stiff brush. We also recommend you consider using an environmentally friendly, water-based and biodegradable product.

Graffiti

Unless you commissioned Banksy for graffiti, you’ll want to remove it from your property, and few tools are better at this than a pressure washer with a 2000 psi to 3000 psi setting, especially for stains on concrete or brick. For brick and metal surfaces, we recommend first using a chemical product, then a power washer to clean away any lingering paint and residue.

Mold and mildew

As any Long Island pressure washing professional will tell you, mold and mildew needs to be removed from wherever it grows on your property. It can lead to damage and destroy your home and health. Pressure washing is an efficient way of removing mold and mildew from many surfaces, like glass, concrete, pavers, roofing, wood, and siding. By combing a mold and mildew remover with a pressure washer, you can also get rid of the stains mildew and mold leave behind.

Oil and grease

Remember when your sister’s boyfriend left his beat-up VW Beetle in the driveway, and your father discovered oil and grease stains afterward? What a pain to remove, but with power washing, you can remove those stains from the garage, driveway, and walkway in short order. You’ll need a degreasing solution and a power washer capable of a 1700 or higher psi setting. Tough stains may require some pretreating followed by a high-pressure nozzle.

Paint

Peeling or flaking paint on a fence, siding, or a brick surface is a pain in the butt for any homeowner. Long Island power washing makes it easier and quicker. As a precaution, do a patch test before you fully begin to make sure the high-pressure spray won’t damage the surface you’re cleaning. Spray a tiny area and then adjust the pressure as required. Then, work in sections and maintain sprayer movement for the best result.

When removing paint from a wood surface using a pressure washer, be sure to spray with the grain of the wood. If any thinner or stripping chemicals have been used to remove the paint, be sure to rinse thoroughly with the power washer to ensure good paint adhesion when the new coat is applied.

Rust

If you have metal surfaces with spots of rust, using a pressure washer with a 3000-psi setting and a narrow-angle nozzle will power away rust in short order. The compact water jet is powerful enough to get rid of rust and save you some time if you have to scrape and sand.

Call Our Long Island Pressure Washing Experts

Majestic Windows & Exterior Cleaning has been a preferred window cleaner in Suffolk and Nassau counties and Long Island proper for 20 years. Whether you need windows cleaned or have a need for pressure washing services, contact us online today or call 631-421-2295 for more information.

Categories
Uncategorized

Pre-paint Treatments: Is Pressure Washing or Scraping Best?

If you’ve decided to paint your home’s exterior or other hard surface that’s already been painted, you’ve got a long job ahead of you. No matter your level of expertise, this kind of endeavor will take several hours if not longer. But what if you must remove existing paint first? That’s another hours-long task to look forward to. And now the final question – which pre-paint treatment is the best, pressure washing or scraping?

AHH, THE JOYS OF PAINT SCRAPING

A committed DIY enthusiast will tell you there’s nothing more satisfying than doing small home repairs and renovation work on your own. If that sounds crazy, you’re not the only one that feels that way. For millions of people, manual labor-intensive work – even around their own homes – is a non-starter. And that’s manual scraping is as a pre-paint treatment. It’s physically grueling. Depending on the weather, you may have to wait hours or days before starting, let alone finishing the job in a reasonable amount of time.

And there are other considerations for Long Island homeowners when it comes to paint scraping. You must buy supplies, often more than once. Scraping paint from wood, brick, or stone can quickly wear down even the best paint scraper you can buy. Why spend your own time, and money on supplies you may never use again, when a pressure washing company could do the work for you, often finishing in only a few hours?

PRESSURE WASHING VS SCRAPING: WHICH IS THE BEST PRE-PAINT TREATMENT?

If you’re up for a challenge and the thought of manual paint scraping doesn’t bother you, have at it. Otherwise, a better option may be to go with a reputable Long Island pressure washing service to do the job for you. With the right equipment and expertise, professional cleaners can have your home’s exterior or another surface prepped and ready for painting in a matter of hours.

THE BENEFITS OF PRESSURE WASHING

For small projects like paint scraping for a one-story home, pressure washing is a better option than doing the work by hand. It’s less abrasive to surfaces like wood, brick patios, concrete, and masonry. These kinds of machines also work on softer surfaces, including siding, tiled areas, and wood decks.

Pressure washing removes many items which adhere to paint

One essential thing to consider when choosing between pressure washing and paint scraping is how well one works compared to the other. When scraping by hand, you’ll likely get tired and there’s no guarantee you won’t miss a patch of paint that needs to be removed. With pressure washing, the chances of missing paint are slim, especially when the work is done by a professional. Because the pressure washer uses water, your home will also receive a thorough cleaning and scrubbing. You’re eliminating debris, grime, mildew, and nasty microscopic life forms living on your home’s exterior. By thoroughly removing all traces of old paint and cleaning at the same time, you’re better preparing for fresh paint than if you were to scrape by hand.

Saves time

Ten times out of 10, an experienced pressure washing company can get the paint preparation job completed quickly and more efficiently than the average homeowner. You won’t have to spend time gathering supplies or cleaning up afterward.

TIPS TO FOLLOW

  • Make sure your Long Island pressure washing company uses the right nozzle before starting work, and low-pressure water. In most cases, a 15- or 25-degree nozzle will work fine.
  • Cover cars, exterior light fixtures, and plants before the work begins. The company you hire should use lightweight canvas drop cloths to cover plants and clingy plastic to cover doors, windows, and light fixtures.
  • Prior to painting, make sure you pick the right primer for your home’s exterior. Consult with a paint professional or paint supply store for the right product advice.
  • Give yourself enough time, and plan for inclement weather.

WHY WE RECOMMEND PRESSURE WASHING BEFORE PAINTING

To summarize: Pressure washing is your best opportunity to remove all manner of bugs and debris before painting. It’s critical to clean your house to ensure a new coat of paint has the opportunity to bond with the primer. By removing all the gunk, you can make sure the paint glides smoothly, and not just roll over dirt. But there’s more than dirt to worry about. There also could be mildew or mold, which a pressure washing company can remove by using a bleaching solution to completely remove all mildew from the outside of your home.

Pressure washing is the first important step in prepping your home for its paint job. In addition to pressure washing, our team also sands and scrapes as needed, resets loose nails, primes bare areas, and repairs minor cracks in stucco. By putting in a little bit of extra effort into prepping your home’s exterior, a Long Island pressure washing company will ensure the best paint job possible.

NASSAU & SUFFOLK COUNTY PRESSURE CLEANING SPECIALISTS

For more than 20 years, Majestic Windows & Exterior Cleaning has served hundreds of customers in Huntington, Wantagh, and more communities throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. We pride ourselves on offering expert-level exterior cleanings at affordable prices. All of our technicians are trained and experienced and work diligently with homeowners to explain how a home’s exterior will be cleaned. Call us today at 631-421-2295 for a no-obligation consultation.

Categories
Uncategorized

Six Reasons to Have Your Windows Professionally Cleaned

Unless you’re a hermit or live in a converted missile silo, most people spend a good deal of time looking through a window day and night. Sometimes it’s just a matter of curiosity – is that a hummingbird in my flower bed? Sometimes it’s a matter of necessity – is the city recycling truck going to hit my car when it backs up? But in most cases, our modern and computer-driven world means fewer people are spending less and less time outside. This means that your windows, literally, are your view to the outside world. Watching what’s happening outside, even for a few moments at a neighbor walking the dog, is a source of relaxation and solace for many of us – elevating windows to a level of importance worthy of care and attention.

But not everyone can clean their windows themselves and, in many cases, can’t and shouldn’t. If you’re too busy to clean your windows, don’t know where to start, or have a medical condition that restricts movement, it’s probably a good idea to think about calling a Long Island window cleaning service for help. Here are the top reasons why you should consider a professional window washing service to handle the job for you:

Banish the bugs

Having your windows professionally cleaned isn’t just a matter of improving your view to the outside world, it can also be a convenient way to banish pesky insects. If you go too long between window cleaning, bees and hornets may cozy up behind the shutters or beside the screens. Wasps, especially, are known for making their homes near storm windows, while ladybug colonies mostly go for dirty window channels.

If your windows are a hot spot for bees, wasps, or other pests, it’s a little hard to use them the way they were designed. With an assist from Long Island window washing professionals, the bugs will be cleaned away, and any mess they leave behind like nests or shed skin. This will help ensure your family is less of a bug bite target on their own property, and keep your windows appearing clean with expert window cleaning.

You can see more clearly

There’s a line from a song that goes, “I can see clearly now the rain is gone,” but if your windows are filthy that’s harder than you can imagine. It’s hard to put a price on a beautiful view, obscuring your pleasure at the sight of blossoming flowers and lush green grass. You pay good money to live in a nice home, and you deserve the best view possible when looking through windows. Keeping your windows clean contributes to a positive attitude – and you won’t have to be surprised when unexpected guests show up on your front porch.

Extend the life of your windows

Everything wears down over time, and even with technology, they tend to fall victim to Mother Nature. Your windowpanes are buffeted by tough weather, collect dirt and grime, suffer micro-impacts from sticks, stones, and bugs and over time, they can become fragile and lose their transparency. The longer the oxidation, hard minerals, and moisture from acid rain sits on the surface of the glass, the harder it is to remove stains. This could ruin your windows and cut into their lifespan.

Frequent window cleaning by our Long Island area professionals makes it simple to remove the persistent hard water stains, mold and grime that are a widespread problem and give your windows extra years for you to enjoy the view.

Why pay for extra supplies?

Let’s face it, store-bought window cleaning spray and paper towels won’t get your windows as clean as the results from a professional window washer. Why? That’s because paper towels can leave annoying smudges by smearing dust and dirt around the windowpane, no matter how many you use. And if you don’t get the results you expect, you may head off to the store for more DIY supplies. But why bother?

We use special techniques and cleaning equipment to get the job done right, including non-abrasive cleaners and cleaning poles which will leave your windows sparkling clean. Instead of buying products to wash your windows, let our cleaners use their own supplies and equipment for clean, streak-free windows the first time.

Don’t reach too high, let us do it for you

Reaching ground-level windows may seem pretty easy, but if there’s a flower bed, shrubs, or an air conditioning unit in the way, it may be harder than you thought. Cleaning first-floor windows without any blockages might be trouble-free, but what if you can’t reach the second story or higher? Our window washing professionals are dispatched to your residence with the right safety equipment required to reach the top floor of your home and clean the exterior windows and skylights that are often neglected. And those shrubs blocking the window? Not a problem.

Safer than DIY

Accidents can happen, and you don’t need a trip to the emergency room because you slipped off a stepstool while cleaning your windows. Our team of window cleaners are experienced, knowledgeable, and take every precaution necessary to wash your windows safely and efficiently. A DIY project sounds good because you think you can save money, but with the cost of healthcare related to emergency room visits, why put yourself at risk?

Majestic Windows & Exterior Cleaning has been a preferred window cleaner and pressure washer for hundreds of customers in Long Island and nearby communities for many years. Contact us today at 631-421-2295 for more information.

Categories
Uncategorized

Top Ten Safety Tips for Pressure Washing at Home

Pressure washing is more dangerous than many people realize.

Fortunately, with basic safety precautions, you can avoid 99% of all pressure washing injuries.

Some people give themselves serious wounds using a pressure washer. Others knock themselves out with carbon monoxide poisoning after running the pressure washer in an enclosed space.

Here are some safety tips for DIY pressure washing at home:

1. Run Pressure Washers in Well-Ventilated Spaces: Never run any gas-powered machine in an enclosed space. Thousands harm themselves every year from carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your pressure washer has plenty of ventilation in an outdoor space to avoid toxic fumes.

2. Use Durable Extension Cords for Electrical Pressure Washers: Electric-powered pressure washers have their own challenges. Some amateur pressure washers have inadvertently electrocuted themselves by using poor-quality extension cords. Make sure the extension cord is free of any standing water. Make sure it’s rated for wet, outdoor use. Keep the extension cord away from any wet area around your cleaning surface. Use a grounded pressure washer and plug into a grounded electrical outlet.

3. Wear Eye Protection: Pressure washing can kick dirt, debris, and pebbles into the air. Every year, thousands are injured by this flying debris. Wear eye protection. Otherwise, you risk permanent damage to your eyesight.

4. Avoid Pressure Washing Around People and Pets: If you’re pressure washing around the house, be sure to do it away from people and pets. Dogs may be curious about the pressure washer, and accidentally spraying your dog can lead to serious injuries. 

5. Treat Pressure Washing Wounds Quickly: Pressure washing wounds are more serious than many people realize. You need to treat them quickly. They might look innocent, but they could require treatment. Some people have faced amputation or disability after serious pressure washing wounds. If in doubt, have a medical professional check the wound.

6. Follow Safety Instructions: It may not seem ‘cool’ to read the safety instructions. But it’s smart. Take a few minutes to read the instructions for your pressure washer. A few minutes of reading today can prevent hours of headaches in the future. Some pressure washers also require specific solutions or pressure ratings to avoid damage.

7. Avoid Cleaning Hard-to-Reach Places: You may be tempted to pressure wash your roof, upper windows, and other hard-to-reach areas. Unfortunately, homeowners die doing this every year. Avoid cleaning hard-to-reach areas if you’re not comfortable. Let the professionals tackle it.

8. Use the Appropriate Pressure for your Surface: Amateur pressure washers may not be aware they need to use different pressure ratings for different surfaces. It’s true. You can damage your roof or siding with too much pressure, for example, weakening the structural integrity of your home. Use the appropriate pressure for your surface.

9. Don’t Clean Shingles: Your shingles may look dirty, and you may be tempted to clean them with your pressure washer. However, pressure washing can blast the gritty surface off of shingles, weakening their integrity. A single pressure wash could take years off the lifespan of your roof.

10. Don’t Clean Windows: It’s easy to shatter a window while pressure washing – especially if it’s an older window. Unless you know exactly what you’re doing, avoid pressure washing windows.

Final Word: Order Professional Pressure Washing Today

Professional pressure washing companies like Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing have decades of experience cleaning homes and businesses.

We use state-of-the-art equipment to safely and efficiently clean your property. Our skilled technicians know the best pressure ratings and cleaning solutions to use for any surface.  

For the best pressure washing in Suffolk County, Nassau County, Huntington, and other Long Island communities, contact Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing today.

Categories
Uncategorized

Six Hidden Dangers of DIY Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is more dangerous than many homeowners realize.

Yes, getting your own pressure washer is exciting. However, DIY pressure washing comes with hidden risks.

Many homeowners have broken windows, damaged cars, or destroyed their roof using pressure washers, for example.

Home pressure washers are safe to use on driveways and other hard surfaces, but DIY pressure washing can be risky – even if you’re an experienced homeowner.

We’re not trying to scare you into buying our Long Island pressure washing services. We’re educating you on the risks of DIY pressure washing.

1) Wounds & Other Physical Injuries

Pressure washers use high pressure water to blast contaminants away from a surface. As the CDC explains, the strong spray of a pressure washer can cause serious wounds.

Pressure washer wounds seem less serious than they are. They might look like a light bruise, for example, and many people think they’re not a big deal.

Unfortunately, many people delay treatment for pressure washing wounds, increasing the risk of infection.

In some cases, untreated pressure washing wounds can even lead to disability or amputation.

2) Toxic Fumes

Many homeowners have been seriously injured by running pressure washers in an environment with poor ventilation.

You might walk around your home with a pressure washer, then decide to run the pressure washer in your garage to clean the pavement.

Unfortunately, running a gas-powered pressure washer in a closed space can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Never use any equipment powered by a gasoline engine inside a building – or even in a partially enclosed space. Always leave your pressure washer outside and away from air intakes.

3) Flying Debris

Pressure washing can push debris into the air. If you hit the debris at the right angle with a pressure washer, it could fly into your face.

The fast, strong spray of a pressure washer can throw objects around. It could injure you or the people around you.

Every year, people are blinded after using a pressure washer incorrectly. They point a pressure washer at a surface with pebbles, for example, and end up with a permanent eye disability.

Wear eye protection when pressure washing a surface – especially if working around tight corners.

Make sure the area is free of any people or pets. Don’t pressure wash around other people, especially if they’re not wearing protective equipment.

4) Electrical Shocks

If you’re using an electrical pressure washer, then you need to take extra caution. It’s easy to shock yourself using an electric-powered pressure washer.

Always plug your pressure washer into a properly-grounded receptable to avoid electrical issues. Make sure your pressure washer stays grounded during use.

If you’re using an extension cord, then make sure the extension cord is rated for wet conditions. Keep the extension cord away from standing water.

For extra protection, wear rubber-soled shoes to provide insulation when using the pressure washer.

5) Damage to your Home

It’s surprisingly easy to damage your home and other property using a pressure washer.

You can’t just spray your pressure washer on your siding or roof, for example, and expect it to safely clean the surface.

Instead, professionals use specific pressure ratings and special cleaning solutions to clean surfaces like your siding and roof.

If you’re an amateur pressure washer, then you may be excited to use your pressure washer all over your home. However, be extra careful when cleaning your siding, roof, and other surfaces. It’s easy to cause permanent damage to your property.

6) Damage to Other Property

Pressure washers can damage more than just your roof and siding: improper pressure washing can damage your car, stripping away paint.

Every amateur homeowner has thought about pressure washing their car. You’re cleaning your driveway, then look up and see your dirty car. You think it’s safe. Pressure washing is generally safe for vehicles, but it can also strip away paint when used incorrectly.

Pressure washing is especially dangerous if your car already has chips. Pressure washing can make these chips larger, increasing the chance of rust.

Final Word: Consider Hiring the Professionals

Long Island’s best pressure washing team is Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing.

Backed by combined decades of experience, Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing has a proven reputation for safely cleaning homes and businesses across Long Island.

We’re available across Suffolk County and Nassau County. Request a free estimate today.

Categories
Uncategorized

Top 5 Benefits of Buying Professional Pressure Washing for your Home

Pressure washing your home is a great way to clean its appearance. But there are plenty of other benefits to pressure washing a property.

Smart homeowners look at pressure washing as an investment. You’re investing in the future of your property. You’re protecting your biggest asset against damage and decay.

Pressure washing is a crucial part of regular home maintenance. Without pressure washing, dirt and grime can build-up, leading to visible signs of decay around your home.

Pressure washing also removes mold and mildew, which can jeopardize the structural integrity of your home when left untreated.

What are the benefits of pressure washing your home? Should you pressure wash your home? Here are some of the surprising benefits associated with a professional-grade residential pressure wash.  

1) Remove Decades of Dirt and Grime

You might think your home is clean. Maybe you have a small pressure washer in your garage, and you regularly clean your driveway, sidewalk, and siding.

However, good pressure washing requires professional-grade equipment. A professional-grade pressure wash can remove decades of dirt and grime that has built up around your home.

Over time, even the cleanest homes develop mold, mildew, dirt, grime, and other signs of age. It’s an inevitable part of home ownership. Your home protects you against the elements, but it also absorbs damage from these elements over the years.

With a good, professional-grade pressure wash from a qualified team, you can easily remove decades of buildup.

2) Clean New Areas of your Home

Even if you have your own pressure washer, you don’t clean every corner of your home with it. Most homeowners don’t climb onto their roof, for example, to clean every nook and cranny with their pressure washer.

When you order professional-grade pressure washing, you’re hiring experts who can safely reach every area of your property, providing effective power washing in corners of your home you have never cleaned.

There are corners to your roof you may have never seen before. There are hidden nooks where mold and mildew can develop, eventually impacting the structure integrity of your home.

By hiring professional-grade pressure washers, you’re getting experts who can easily and safely clean all corners of your home – including the corners you never reach.

3) Add Years to your Roof’s Life

Your roof needs to be cleaned regularly. Unfortunately, standard pressure washing damages roofs.

If you clean your roof the same way you pressure wash other surfaces, you could easily trim years off your roof’s life by damaging shingles. Pressure washing blasts the gritty surface off of shingles, making it harder for shingles to do their job.

When you hire a professional pressure washing company, you can protect your roof while avoiding damage.

Pressure washing formulas can blast dirt, grime, and mold away from your roof, extending its lifespan. When left untreated, bacteria can infiltrate a shingle, weakening its structural integrity from the inside.

The roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Professional pressure washing can protect your roof.

4) Avoid Damage with Specialized Soft Washing Techniques

You can’t just spray a pressure washer at your home the same way you point it at your driveway. You’ll damage your exterior.

That’s why professional pressure washing companies use specialized soft washing techniques. They use a specific psi (based on the surface being cleaned) and a special cleaning solution.

Thanks to soft washing, pressure washing companies can safely clean the exterior of your home without any signs of damage.

Plus, the special formula used by pressure washing companies protects your home against future mold or mildew growth. It coats the surface with a protective layer, which means you don’t have to worry about mold or mildew for months.

5) Get an Immediate Return on your Investment

Professional-grade pressure washing is an investment into your property. Just like other home maintenance, pressure washing helps extend the lifespan of your home.

Professional-grade pressure washing is less expensive than you think.

Professional pressure washers have decades of experience. They can quickly and efficiently clean any home or business. They also use more powerful equipment. It might take you a full weekend to pressure wash your property – but a professional pressure washing company completes the job in a few hours.

You also get an immediate return on your investment after paying for professional pressure washing:

  • A cleaner, more beautiful property
  • Enhanced curb appeal
  • Fewer home damage costs and maintenance items
  • A safer and healthier home free of mold, mildew, and contaminants
  • And many other benefits

Final Word: Professional Pressure Washing is a Worthy Investment

Professional-grade pressure washing is an investment in one of your biggest assets: your home.

Thanks to professional-grade pressure washing, you can beautify your home’s exterior, protect your investment, and avoid damage to your property.

Professional Long Island pressure washing is cheaper than you think! Contact Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing for a free estimate.