Oklahoma is home to many beautiful and vibrant historic home districts/neighborhoods. Edgemere Park (OKC), Putnam Heights (OKC), Crown Heights (OKC), Heritage Hills (OKC), Broadway St (Shawnee, OK), just to name a few… With homes dating back to the pre-dust bowl era, Oklahoma’s historic homes evoke memories of times long gone. Standing in front of historic homes takes me back and makes me feel like I am stepping back in time. To be able to perform and restore a historic home back to its natural beauty at the time of its construction or its latest renovation (which could have been 60 years ago) gives me a sense of calmness, making me feel connected to the passersby who have lived in the home before the current owner or the fellow tradespeople who have worked on the home to improve it. It is a sense of connection to the past that I love.
Gentle Soft Washing for Oklahoma City’s Historic Home Exteriors
Historical homes do not need to undergo pressure washing. While pressure washing may seem like the obvious solution, it is actually the worst thing you could do to your historical property (brick, stone veneer siding, weeping mortar, flagstone, limestone – more common in Oklahoma). Pressure washing carries significant risks due to its abrasive nature. Not only can pressure washing chip away and etch your brick and rock, but it can also cut into mortar and mortar joints, causing irreparable damage. While pressure washing may seem like the only viable method, especially when considering the pronounced build-up of mold, mildew, and algae, it is essential to note that the organic build-up is typically deeply entrenched on historic homes, attached to the surface and embedded into the pores, coating, and eating away at the stone, rock, and mortar for decades, and in some cases, generations. Therefore, when subjected to high pressure, the risk of cutting away the mortar and brick from the surface is significantly higher, as the structural integrity of the cleaning site is compromised.
Oklahoma City’s Historic Homes Require Specialized Soft Washing
When we think of historical home surfaces, we may perceive brick, stone, and rock as hard to the touch, which they are. However, when exposed to the elements, these structural surfaces become soft and porous. They are the perfect breeding ground for organic matter to grow. This means that you need the correct soft-washing approach, coupled with organic neutralizer and dirt degreaser, to safely and effectively clean your home’s historic exterior. The soft house washing approach provides low pressure (100-300 psi) that can be applied with chemical agents in broad sections, covering more surface area and allowing for more thorough coverage in the application of cleaning agents and rinse applications. Soft washing is the best approach to cleaning your historic home; in some cases, a combination of soft washing and agitation with a nylon brush is needed. Avoid using metal bristles or strong bristle brushes, as they can scratch the surface and leave rust stains.
Soft Washing Is Preferred for Oklahoma City’s Historic Homes
So, why is soft washing the preferred method for cleaning historical homes in Oklahoma City? Let’s delve into the reasons:
- Preservation of Delicate Surfaces: Historical homes often feature intricate details crafted from various materials such as stone, brick, and mortar. These surfaces, especially those dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, can be susceptible to damage from high-pressure water streams. Soft washing utilizes low-pressure techniques coupled with specialized cleaning solutions to gently cleanse the surfaces without causing harm.
- Protection Against Damage: Pressure washing, with its forceful streams of water, can dislodge loose mortar, erode delicate stonework, and even cause water infiltration into the home’s structure. In contrast, soft washing minimizes the risk of damage by employing a controlled application of water and detergents, ensuring that the home remains structurally sound for years to come.
- Customized Solutions for Different Materials: Historical homes boast a variety of materials, each requiring specific care. From limestone facades to red brick exteriors and traditional lime mortar, soft washing techniques can be tailored to suit the unique needs of each surface. This versatility allows for thorough cleaning without compromising the authenticity and charm of the home’s original features.
Common Stone Types in Oklahoma City’s Historic Homes
- Limestone: Widely used in the construction of historical homes, limestone exudes a timeless elegance. However, its porous nature makes it susceptible to staining. Soft washing effectively removes dirt and grime from limestone surfaces without causing damage.
- Brick: Red brick facades are a hallmark of many historical homes, adding warmth and character to their exteriors. Soft washing gently cleanses brick surfaces, restoring their natural beauty without altering their texture or color.
- Traditional Lime Mortar: Unlike modern cement-based mortars, traditional lime mortar was commonly used in historical construction. Soft washing helps preserve the integrity of lime mortar joints, preventing erosion and maintaining the structural stability of the home.
Soft Washing Beyond the Exterior for Oklahoma City’s Historic Homes
Expanding our discussion beyond the home’s exterior cleaning, let’s explore the importance of soft washing for other historical features:
- Driveways, Patios, and Pavers: Just like the facades of historical homes, driveways, patios, and pavers require careful attention to maintain their integrity. Soft washing is particularly beneficial for these surfaces, as it effectively removes built-up dirt and grime without causing damage. However, for well-cured concrete and certain types of stone work, pressure washing can be a suitable option. It’s crucial to prepare the surface adequately before pressure washing and adjust the pressure accordingly, especially for concrete older than 30 years, to prevent any potential damage.
- Flagstone and Chimneys: Flagstone pathways and chimneys add character to historical homes but can accumulate dirt and soot over time. Soft washing is gentle yet effective in restoring these surfaces to their former glory, without compromising their structural integrity. However, for well-cured flagstone and chimneys with sturdy construction, pressure washing can be a viable option when done with caution and appropriate pressure levels.
Preserving Oklahoma City’s Heritage with Gentle Soft Washing
In conclusion, whether it’s the intricate details of a historical home’s facade or the charming features of its surrounding landscape, soft washing emerges as the preferred method for preserving Oklahoma City’s heritage. By employing gentle yet effective cleaning techniques, homeowners can ensure that these architectural treasures continue to stand the test of time, allowing future generations to appreciate the beauty of the city’s history.
If you’re a homeowner looking to restore the splendor of your historical abode or rejuvenate your outdoor spaces, contact us today for expert soft washing and pressure washing services tailored to your home’s unique needs. Preserve the past while embracing the future with soft washing – the gentle touch your historical home deserves.