Why You Should Never Skip Pressure Washing Before Painting Your Home’s Exterior

In Florida, skipping pressure washing before an exterior paint job is one of the biggest mistakes a homeowner can make. Between humidity, rain, salt air, and organic growth, exterior surfaces collect far more buildup than many people realize.

At K&D Painting, we consider proper cleaning and preparation just as important as the paint itself.

What Builds Up on Florida Home Exteriors

Over time, exterior surfaces accumulate:

• Dirt and dust

• Mold and mildew

• Algae and organic growth

• Salt residue (especially near coastal areas)

  
  

If these contaminants aren’t removed, paint cannot properly adhere to the surface.

What Happens If You Skip Pressure Washing

Poor Paint Adhesion

Paint sticks best to clean, dry surfaces. When dirt or mildew remains, paint may peel, blister, or fail prematurely.

Shortened Paint Life

A paint job that should last years may start showing wear much sooner if applied over buildup.

Visible Imperfections

Even fresh paint can look uneven or patchy if applied over dirty or stained surfaces.

Why Pressure Washing Is Especially Important in Florida

Florida’s climate creates the perfect conditions for mildew and algae growth. Even homes that look clean can have invisible residue that affects paint performance. Pressure washing removes this layer and prepares the surface for long-lasting results.

More Than Just Spraying Water

Proper pressure washing isn’t about blasting surfaces with high pressure. It requires:

• The correct pressure for stucco, wood, or concrete

• Appropriate cleaning solutions for mildew and algae

• Enough drying time before painting begins

  
  

Improper washing can damage surfaces or trap moisture under paint.

Our Prep Process at K&D Painting

Before exterior painting, we ensure surfaces are:

• Thoroughly cleaned

• Free of mildew and residue

• Fully dry and ready for paint

  
  

This extra step helps ensure your exterior paint job looks great and holds up against Florida’s harsh environment.

A Better Paint Job Starts With Prep

If you’re planning to repaint your home’s exterior, don’t overlook preparation. K&D Painting provides professional exterior painting with the proper cleaning and prep needed for durable, long-lasting results. Call K&D Painting today at 716-994-5994 for a free pressure washing and exterior prep estimate.