Winter may have come and gone, but it often leaves behind a mess. Harsh weather, debris buildup, and grime take a toll on your facility’s exterior, affecting its appearance, safety, and longevity.

Spring is the perfect time to reset and restore. A thorough cleaning ensures a polished look, protects your investment, and creates a positive first impression. Consider working with an experienced service provider to make exterior cleaning more efficient and effective, especially with emerging high-tech solutions like drones.

Here’s why exterior cleaning matters, what to focus on, and how to create a routine that works for your facility:

Why Exterior Cleaning Matters—and What to Focus On

A clean exterior is more than just curb appeal. It safeguards your facility, promotes safety, and sets the tone for your brand. Over time, dirt, mildew, algae, and grime eat away at roofing, siding, and concrete surfaces, accelerating wear and tear.

Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to costly repairs, tenant complaints, and even safety hazards like slippery walkways or clogged gutters. Here are the key areas to focus on when spring cleaning your facility’s exterior:

• Siding and Walls: Prolong the lifespan of materials like brick, stucco, or metal with proper care.
• Windows and Ledges: Keep glass clear and streak-free to brighten interiors and improve efficiency.
• Roofs and Gutters: Prevent leaks or damage by removing debris and ensuring rainwater flows freely.
• Walkways, Entrances, and Parking Areas: Eliminate stains, grime, and slipping hazards to maintain a welcoming look.

Keep in mind, different materials require specific approaches. For example, pressure washing might be fine for concrete but could damage fragile siding. Working with a professional ensures the right techniques are applied.

Building a Smart Exterior Cleaning Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to keeping the exterior of your facility clean and protected year-round. Developing a smart cleaning schedule tailored to your building’s unique needs can save time and money. Factors to consider include:

• Regional Climate: Cold winters, pollen-filled springs, or salty coastal air all influence maintenance frequency.
• Environment: Nearby industrial pollutants, vegetation, or heavy traffic can create additional challenges.
• Building Materials and Age: Older or more delicate materials may need extra TLC.

Suggested Maintenance Frequency

• Pressure Washing: Once or twice a year, especially after winter and again in mid-fall.
• Window Cleaning: Quarterly or seasonally to keep glass in top condition.
• Gutter Cleaning: Twice a year (spring and fall) for structures with gutters to prevent clogs and water damage.
• Roof Cleaning: Annually or biannually depending on material type and vegetation.

Documenting cleanings and building a maintenance calendar with a trusted provider helps streamline your schedule and ensures nothing is overlooked.

Leveraging Technology—Drones, Safety, and Speed

Some service providers are revolutionizing exterior cleaning with drone-powered technology for enhanced safety, efficiency, and precision. Whether it’s high-rise buildings, fragile surfaces, or expansive properties, drones can significantly improve the process.

Here’s how drones make a difference:

• Enhanced Safety: Workers stay securely on the ground, reducing risks associated with ladders and scaffolding.
• Superior Efficiency: Drones can clean at an impressive 300 square feet per minute, setting an industry benchmark.
• Remarkable Precision: With adjustable PSI and certified pilots, drones handle even hard-to-reach areas like a pro.
• Sensor-Based Accuracy: Drones ensure every inch of your facility is covered while minimizing water waste.

From high-rise window cleaning to roof maintenance on industrial facilities, drones are a game-changer. Not only do they deliver sparkling results, but they also reduce downtime for your operations.

Pro Tips for Facility Managers

• Look for signs like streaky windows or discolored siding to know when it’s time to clean.
• Don’t neglect shaded areas where mold and mildew love to grow.
• Schedule cleaning after heavy pollen seasons or landscaping work for the best results.
• Ensure your provider is familiar with local water runoff regulations to remain compliant.
• Bundle services like window cleaning and pressure washing to get the most bang for your buck.

Spring Into a Cleaner Future

Spring cleaning isn’t just about appearances; it’s about efficiency, safety, and protecting your property’s value for years to come. A well-maintained facility performs better, lasts longer, and creates a lasting impression on visitors, tenants, and employees alike.

This spring, give your facility the care it deserves. Consider partnering with experts to develop a custom cleaning plan tailored to your facility’s needs. With innovative tools, technology, and a customer-focused approach, the right partner can make your property shine—while saving you valuable time. By allowing a service provider to handle the hard work, you can focus on what matters most without the stress or hassle of doing it yourself.

Dylan Harris is the director of operations at Window Hero and has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth since 2017. Outside the office, he enjoys exploring golf courses, discovering new breweries, and capturing life’s best moments through photography.

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