From the free quote to the final rinse, pre-paint washing for aluminum siding in your area follows a simple process: inspect, protect, clean, rinse and check. On aluminum siding, the method we use is 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.
When to book pre-paint washing for aluminum siding
- 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
Safe steps for homeowners
- 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
How we handle pre-paint washing for aluminum siding
- 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 aluminum siding 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 aluminum siding
Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in your area
We provide pre-paint washing for aluminum siding across all 50 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Pick your state to see local details:
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Alabama
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Alaska
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Arizona
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Arkansas
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in California
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Colorado
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Connecticut
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Delaware
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in District of Columbia
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Florida
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Georgia
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Hawaii
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Idaho
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Illinois
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Indiana
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Iowa
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Kansas
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Kentucky
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Louisiana
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Maine
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Maryland
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Massachusetts
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Michigan
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Minnesota
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Mississippi
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Missouri
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Montana
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Nebraska
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Nevada
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in New Hampshire
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in New Jersey
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in New Mexico
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in New York
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in North Carolina
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in North Dakota
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Ohio
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Oklahoma
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Oregon
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Pennsylvania
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Puerto Rico
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Rhode Island
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in South Carolina
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in South Dakota
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Tennessee
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Texas
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Utah
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Vermont
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Virginia
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Washington
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in West Virginia
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Wisconsin
- Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding in Wyoming
Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding: frequently asked questions
How much does pre-paint washing for aluminum siding cost?
Pre-Paint Washing for Aluminum Siding 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 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 pre-paint 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 pre-paint 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.