How to Prepare for Power Washing in Yuma, AZ

Before the visit (24 hours prior)

Move items away from the work area

Patio furniture, planters, kids' toys, trash cans, lawn equipment — move them 10+ feet away or into the garage. Water from power washing bounces and can knock things over or push them into areas you don't want them.

Protect delicate plants and landscaping

Soft-wash (what Chris uses) is safe for most plants, but intense runoff can damage new seedlings. Move any prized plants or seedlings. For gardens, water them heavily before the job so the pre-watering dilutes any soap residue.

Secure pets inside

The noise and activity can stress dogs. Keep pets indoors in a quiet room. Cats usually hide anyway, but it's safer to have them inside. No pets need to be present during the job.

Let Chris know about hazards

Bee's nests, exposed electrical boxes, loose shingles, ornaments you're worried about — mention them when you book or when he arrives. Chris will work around them safely.

Day of the job

You don't need to be home

For exterior work (driveway, stucco, patio, RV), Chris doesn't need you there. Just make sure the water spigot is accessible. For interior handyman work, someone needs to be present, but you can go to another room.

Parking and access

Leave the driveway and work area clear if possible. Chris brings a truck with equipment — he needs to be able to park near the job and run a hose from the water source.

During the job (what to expect)

Noise and water spray

Soft-wash is quieter than pressure washing but still produces sound. You'll hear the hose running and the spray. Water spray may reach nearby fences or landscaping — that's normal and usually not an issue.

Time on site

Most driveways take 1–2 hours. Full house exterior soft-wash takes 2–4 hours. Chris will give you an estimate before starting.

After the job

Surfaces will be wet

The area will be thoroughly soaked. Concrete and pavers may stay damp for 24+ hours depending on heat and shade. Keep kids and pets off wet areas until they dry to avoid slips.

Stains may take time to fully dry

Mineral deposits lift during the wash but may show watermarks as they dry. This is normal and typically disappears within 24 hours as the surface dries.

What Chris leaves behind

The site is swept clean and tidy. Any soap residue will rinse with the next rain or watering. Equipment is packed up and removed — you won't see a mess.

What to tell Chris when you call

The more specific you are, the more accurate the quote. Useful info to have ready:

• Surface type: Stucco, concrete, pavers, wood, RV — he'll use the right method for each
• Approximate size: "Standard two-car driveway" or "single-story house, maybe 1,800 sq ft" is enough
• Last time it was cleaned: Helps him estimate buildup
• Any specific stains: Oil, rust, graffiti, mildew — some stains need different chemistry
• Access restrictions: Gated community, tight side yard, large trees near work area

What to do after the job

Give it time to dry

Concrete driveways in Yuma summer heat dry in 1–2 hours. Shaded patios or porous surfaces may take 4–6 hours. Stucco may look slightly streaked while wet — it clears up as it dries.

Wait before re-sealing

If you're planning to seal a driveway or patio after washing, wait at least 48 hours in Yuma heat. The surface needs to be completely dry for sealant to bond properly.

Check the result

Walk the area after everything dries. If there's a spot that needs attention, call Chris within 48 hours. He'll return to fix anything that didn't come clean at no additional charge — that's the guarantee.

Questions before booking?

Call Chris at (928) 446-0252. He'll walk you through anything you're worried about and answer specific questions about your property.