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Pressure Washing FAQs
Straight answers to the questions Mackay locals ask us most. Can't find yours? Call (07) 4893 3000 or message us on WhatsApp and we will get back to you promptly.
Is pressure washing safe for all types of roofs?
Not always. High pressure can damage some surfaces, strip protective coatings and void warranties on some roof types. That's why we assess every roof first and choose between hot water pressure cleaning and low-pressure softwashing depending on the material. Tiled roofs and older surfaces usually need softwash. Metal roofs in good condition can handle more pressure. The right method gets the same clean result without the damage.
What are the benefits of soft washing compared to pressure washing?
Softwashing uses low pressure and specialised cleaning solutions to kill mould, algae and lichen at the source. The clean lasts longer because the growth is treated rather than just blasted off the surface. It's safe for painted walls, render, roof tiles and other delicate surfaces and it can also be applied to driveways. Pressure cleaning removes a small amount of the concrete surface each time, so repeated high-pressure cleans can create an exposed look over the years. Knowing which method suits which surface is exactly what we assess on every job. Often the best result comes from combining both.
What is pressure washing and how does it work?
Pressure washing uses water propelled at high pressure to strip dirt, mould, grime and stains off hard surfaces like concrete, brick and pavers. At Hotwash Mackay we take it a step further with hot water systems. Heat breaks down grease and biological growth far faster than cold water, meaning a deeper clean with less chemical use. For delicate surfaces we switch to softwashing instead. The result is a property that looks close to new without damage to the surface underneath.
How often should I get my driveway cleaned in Mackay?
Every 6 to 12 months for most Mackay homes. Our tropical humidity and wet season drive mould and algae growth faster than southern states. Properties near cane are exposed to fallout that settles on roofs and paths and stains surfaces over time. An annual clean keeps grime from setting deep into the surface where it becomes harder to remove. Homes under heavy tree cover or on busy roads often need a clean every 6 months.
Contact Hotwash Mackay for your next exterior clean or maintenance project. We'd be happy to help.
How much does pressure washing cost in Mackay?
Every property is different so we quote each job on the surface type and area being cleaned. Quotes are free and we respond promptly. What you're quoted is what you pay. Call (07) 4893 3000 or request a quote online.
Does soft washing damage my roof?
No, softwashing is specifically designed to protect delicate roof surfaces. It uses low pressure and biodegradable cleaning solutions to kill mould, algae and lichen at the source rather than blasting them off with force. We use it on tile, Colorbond and painted surfaces where high pressure would cause damage. The clean lasts longer and the surface stays undamaged.
What's the best time of year for exterior cleaning in Mackay?
The dry season from May to November is ideal. Cleaning before the wet season removes the mould and algae that would otherwise explode with growth once the humidity and rain arrive. Many of our customers book an annual clean in spring so their property is at its best over summer. We clean year-round though and a wet-season clean still beats letting grime sit for another six months.
How do I know I'm getting good value for money?
Good value isn't just the cheapest price on the day. It's a clean done properly with the right method for each surface, so you're not paying for damage repairs or a redo six months later. We use commercial grade hot water systems that clean faster and deeper. We give you a firm written price before we start, we show up when we say we will and we back our work with a 365-day guarantee. That's the standard we hold ourselves to on every job.
How long does a clean take?
It depends on the size of the job and what we're cleaning. A standard driveway is typically 1–2 hours. A full exterior house wash including walls, eaves and paths is usually 4–6 hours. Roof cleans run 3–6 hours depending on size and the extent of biological growth. We'll give you an accurate timeframe when we quote so you can plan your day.
Do I need to be home during the clean?
You don't need to be home. As long as we have access to the areas being cleaned and a water connection, most jobs can be completed without you on site. We'll confirm access requirements when we book and let you know when the job is complete. Many of our customers are at work while we clean. We just need the gate open, a tap and a clear run at the surfaces.
Is the cleaning safe for my garden and pets?
Yes. We use biodegradable cleaning solutions and take precautions to protect surrounding gardens, grass and vegetation before starting. Pets should be kept away from the area while we're working and for a short period after, until surfaces are dry and rinsed. If you have specific concerns about a particular plant or garden area, let us know when we quote and we'll work around it.
How should I prepare my property before you arrive?
A few simple things make the job run smoothly. Move loose items like outdoor furniture, pot plants, kids' toys and garden hoses away from the areas being cleaned, close all windows and doors to prevent water entry and make sure we have access to the areas being cleaned plus a working tap. Larger fixed items like built-in BBQs or garden beds, we work around them and cover anything that needs protecting.
Do you clean gutters?
Yes. We offer gutter cleaning as a standalone service or as part of a full exterior clean. Depending on the scope we can clear internal debris and blockages or pressure wash the exterior gutter surfaces. Let us know when you enquire and we'll include it in the quote.
What does the 365-day workmanship guarantee cover?
If significant biological regrowth — moss, algae or lichen — returns to treated surfaces within 12 months of the clean under normal conditions, we'll come back and retreat the affected areas at no charge. The guarantee covers the workmanship and effectiveness of our treatment. It doesn't extend to surface deterioration, damage caused by third parties, or accelerated regrowth caused by blocked drainage, water pooling or other property maintenance issues outside our control.
Do you provide a written quote before starting work?
Yes, always. We provide a firm written quote before any work starts. What you're quoted is what you pay — no extras added on the day, no surprises at the end. If the scope changes during the job for any reason, we'll discuss it with you before proceeding.