Exterior Cleaning: What Can Go Wrong (Central Florida Edition)
An educational resource by Like New – Surface Cleaning & Restoration, Orlando
Exterior Cleaning Isn’t Harmless. Done Incorrectly, It Can Permanently Damage a Home.
This educational site explains the most common — and costly — exterior cleaning mistakes seen in Central Florida homes, and why method matters more than equipment.
Developed by Like New, a locally based exterior cleaning and restoration company focused on risk-aware, standards-based cleaning practices.
Why This Resource Was Created
Most exterior damage doesn’t come from neglect.
It comes from well-intended cleaning done incorrectly.
We routinely see damage caused by:
- DIY pressure washing
- Contractors using the wrong chemicals
- Inexperienced crews prioritizing speed over control
This site exists to help homeowners and real estate professionals understand what the risks actually are — before they become permanent or expensive.
Pressure Washing Isn’t Just “Water”
Common Misconception
“If it’s water, it can’t hurt anything.”
Reality
Pressure washing combines force, heat, and chemistry. When misapplied, it can:
- Etch concrete and pavers
- Scar stucco and siding
- Strip paint and coatings
- Drive water behind walls and trim
Key Takeaway : Damage often isn’t visible immediately. It shows up weeks or months later.
Chemical Risk (Bleach, Mix Ratios, Runoff)
What Many People Don’t Realize
- Household bleach ≠ professional chemical control
- Stronger mixes don’t mean better results
- Runoff doesn’t disappear — it travels
Observed Outcomes
- Chalky residue on siding
- Premature roof tile aging
- Dead landscaping
- Corroded metal fixtures
Important Context : Most damage here is irreversible. Cleaning can expose damage — it cannot undo it.
Roof Cleaning Is High-Risk When Done Wrong
Roofs Are Not Pressure-Washable Surfaces
Improper roof cleaning can:
- Shorten roof life
- Void manufacturer warranties
- Make tiles brittle over time
- Create hidden water intrusion
What Often Goes Wrong
- Excessive chemical strength
- Repeated treatments
- Walking fragile tile systems
- Ignoring material-specific guidelines
Key Truth : A roof can look “clean” and still be damaged.
Driveways, Pavers, and Concrete — Permanent Mistakes
Common Errors
- Wand marks (“tiger striping”)
- Surface etching
- Loss of joint sand
- Uneven appearance that can’t be corrected
Why This Matters : Once concrete is etched or aggregate is exposed, replacement is often the only fix.
Why Realtors Should Care
For Realtors and Property Managers
Exterior cleaning issues can:
- Delay closings
- Raise inspection questions
- Create post-sale disputes
- Trigger insurance concerns
Many problems are discovered after cleaning — when it’s too late to reverse them.
This resource is designed to help realtors:
- Set realistic expectations
- Avoid preventable damage
- Reduce risk during listing prep
About Like New
Who Developed This Resource
Like New is a locally owned exterior cleaning and restoration company serving the Orlando area.
Our approach emphasizes:
Method over speed
Surface-appropriate cleaning
Plant, property, and runoff awareness
Long-term surface preservation
This site is not a sales pitch.
It reflects the issues we see after things go wrong.
Like New, LLC provides professional roof soft washing services throughout East Orlando, Avalon Park, Stoneybrook, and the 32828 area, using safe, industry-approved methods designed for Florida properties.
