Summer is quickly approaching, which means that it is time to get your patio ready. Patios are spaces where families and friends can gather to relax, barbecue, and enjoy the warm summer air. With a quick cleanup, repairing any damages, and enhancing decor, homeowners can get their patios refreshed and ready for summer activities. 

6 Steps to Get Patio Ready for Summer

1. Clean and Declutter

The first step in preparing your patio is cleaning the surface by sweeping and power washing. Sweep to remove any loose debris and clutter to make the pressure washing process more effective. The high pressure water is strong enough to clear any dirt and debris that has settled into the patio from the harsh weather of winter. After the surface is clean, homeowners can also clean off any dirt from outdoor furniture and other accessories.

Our team of experts at G&S Window Cleaning are also highly skilled at pressure washing patios and other surfaces like driveways and walkways. We can save homeowners the time and effort of cleaning their patios themselves and deliver exceptional results. Contact us today for a free estimate.

2. Inspect and Repair

The next item of business is to check for any signs of damage or wear and address any issues. Repair any cracks, chips, or loose pavers to get the patio level and smooth. Homeowners can also tighten any loose screws and bolts on the furniture to ensure safe sitting and living areas.

3. Enhance Comfort and Functionality

Here are some ideas of how to enhance comfort and functionality of patios:

Add Shade: Install a patio umbrella to provide instant shade and protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Choose a sturdy umbrella that can withstand windy conditions and adjust its angle to maximize shade coverage. Homeowners can also find shade by installing retractable or stationary awnings over seating areas or windows to block direct sunlight. 

Upgrade Outdoor Seating: Invest in high-quality cushions or seat pads for your outdoor furniture (if you don’t already have some) to enhance comfort and style. Choose cushions made from weather-resistant materials that can withstand exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Decorative throw pillows can also add a pop of color and texture to outdoor seating areas while providing extra support and comfort. 

Add Lighting: Homeowners can hang string lights across the patio to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings. Decorative lanterns can also be placed on tables or along pathways to provide soft lighting. Homeowners can opt for flameless LED candles or solar-powered lanterns for a safe and hassle-free lighting solution. Spotlights can also be installed to highlight architectural features or plants on the patio. 

By enhancing comfort and functionality with shade solutions, comfortable seating, and ambient lighting, homeowners can create an inviting and enjoyable outdoor living space perfect for relaxing or entertaining during the summer months. 

4. Beautify and Decorate

Beautifying and decorating the patio can transform it into a welcoming and visually captivating outdoor oasis. Start by planting seasonal flowers or greenery in pots or planters to add bursts of color and natural beauty. Select a variety of plants with different heights, textures, and colors to create a dynamic display.

Incorporating outdoor rugs or mats can elevate the style and comfort of the patio. Choose rugs made from durable and weather-resistant materials to withstand exposure to sunlight and moisture. Arrange the rugs to delineate different functional zones, such as dining or lounging areas, and add visual interest to the space. 

5. Create Entertainment Spaces

The next thing that can be done to get a patio ready for summer is to set up a dining area. Choose a sturdy dining table and chairs that can withstand outdoor conditions and accommodate guests comfortably. 

Homeowners can enhance the space by making it a lounge area with sofas, loveseats, or lounge chairs. Side tables can be incorporated or a coffee table for placing drinks and snacks, and a canopy or pergola can provide shade and privacy.

A fun addition is to install a fire pit or outdoor heater for cooler evenings, extending the usability of your patio into the cooler months. A fire pit provides warmth and ambiance, perfect for roasting marshmallows or gathering around with friends and family. Alternatively, an outdoor heater can provide targeted heat to keep guests comfortable during chilly evenings, allowing you to enjoy your patio year-round.

6. Safety and Maintenance

The last step that should be taken is to ensure the patio is safe and well maintained. Ensure proper drainage to prevent water buildup and minimize the risk of slips and falls, along with preventing damage to the patio surface. Clear debris from drains and gutters to maintain optimal water flow and consider installing a drainage system or slope the patio surface away from the house to redirect water runoff effectively. 

Outdoor cooking appliances like grills should be regularly inspected and cleaned to ensure safe and efficient operation. Remove grease buildup, debris, and ash from grills, burners, and surfaces to prevent fire hazards and maintain the longevity of your outdoor cooking equipment.

Conclusion

Your patio can be ready for summer with the simple steps of cleaning, repairing any damages, enhancing comfort and functionality, and creating entertainment spaces. Through the steps mentioned above, homeowners can enjoy the outdoor living space to the fullest and get it ready for summer.

Are you finding odd colored spots on your concrete around your property that aren’t normal? Those spots are most likely mold that has grown over time. While finding mold is concerning, there are measures that can be taken to get rid of it and prevent it from returning in the future. 

How to Identify Mold on Concrete

To begin, you should know what mold looks like on concrete to accurately treat it. Due to its porous nature, concrete can trap moisture, leading to the development of mold in its tiny crevices. Mold typically manifests as black or green patches that continually evolve in shape. There is also a musty and damp odor emitted by mold that is often detectable due to the excess moisture. 

Mold growth commonly occurs in shaded sections of patios, driveways, sidewalks, and steps where moisture accumulates but struggles to evaporate quickly due to the lack of direct sunlight. Areas shaded by trees, building shadows, or patio roofs create ideal conditions for mold proliferation.  

Is Mold on Concrete Dangerous?

The presence of mold does not automatically mean it is dangerous, although it can become dangerous if left untreated for a lengthy period of time. Mold can irritate the eyes, throat, and nose, along with aggravate allergies and cause asthma attacks. In more severe cases, people may react to mold by developing bronchitis and pneumonia, dizziness, migraines, and memory problems. 

While physical symptoms may be more noticeable upfront, mold can affect the integrity of the home through structural issues, as well. Because mold contains acid that is harmful to the chemical properties of concrete, it can make concrete even more porous. This is an issue because the more porous the concrete, the more moisture can seep into the concrete. As the concrete continues to be affected by the mold, it will eventually hit the exterior of the home and cause foundational issues.

Can You Pressure Wash Mold? 

You may be wondering at this point how you can eradicate mold from your concrete to protect your health and your home. Luckily, you can pressure wash mold. Pressure washing has been proven to be one of the most effective methods to remove mold and mildew from concrete. It uses high pressure settings to quickly remove mold and other debris from concrete surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and patios. 

The Process of Professional Pressure Washing

Professional pressure washers know exactly how to do the job so it is completed quickly and effectively. Hiring professionals will also save you the time and effort of doing it yourself. Here is the process that professionals take to get mold off of concrete surfaces:

Prepare the Area

Before the experts arrive, homeowners should prepare the area by removing any loose debris or items in the vicinity. Doing so will provide an open and safe space for them to work. If the homeowners haven’t cleared the area, the professionals may temporarily move your items to clear the space and prevent any damage to the loose items.

Safety Precautions

The next step in the process is to take safety precautions, such as wearing gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate clothing. Due to the high pressure from the washer, loose debris, dirt, and water quickly emerges from the concrete, which may end up hitting the workers. This potential for danger should be addressed by taking the necessary precautions.

Choose the Pressure Washer

After the preparations are complete, the experts will choose the appropriate pressure washer for the job at hand. Because mold is usually harder to remove, a higher setting pressure washer is used in comparison to a more gentle pressure washer for a surface like a roof. The professionals will take time to assess the project and choose the best washer for the specific condition of the surfaces being washed. 

Apply Detergent

Professionals will then choose the detergent needed for the job. In many pressure washing scenarios, a gentle detergent is used to effectively cleanse surfaces. When tackling mold on concrete, this detergent might comprise baking soda, vinegar, bleach, or concentrated alkaline soap. The detergent is usually applied to the concrete surface and allowed to sit for a few minutes, facilitating the breakdown of mold and grime. Stubborn areas with denser mold may require extended exposure to the detergent for enhanced effectiveness.

Pressure Wash 

Following a brief soaking period with the detergent, professionals proceed to use the pressure sprayer to wash the area. The powerful combination of the detergent and high water pressure ensures efficient removal, typically requiring just one or two passes to eliminate dirt and mold. Maintaining the nozzle at a distance of 6 to 12 inches from the surface yields optimal results for mold removal. Once the thorough power wash, a final rinse with clean water adds the perfect finish touch, leaving behind a sparkling clean surface.

Choose G&S Window Cleaning for Pressure Washing Needs

While we specialize in cleaning windows at G&S Window Cleaning, we are also experts at pressure washing outdoor surfaces. We prioritize the satisfaction of our customers and understand that mold can be a scary issue. With our team, you will have your concrete free from mold and looking brand new. Contact us today to get a free quote.

Hard water stains are a common issue in almost every home. These stains leave the surfaces looking unpleasant and dirty, which is why many homeowners try to prevent them. Even with preventive measures, hard water stains happen. Effective hard water spot removal can be a challenging task, but with the right information and assistance, clean and functional spaces in the home can be achieved.

What are Hard Water Stains? 

Hard water stains are mineral deposits, primarily calcium and magnesium, left behind on surfaces after water evaporates. Over time, these deposits can accumulate and become stubborn, which makes them challenging to remove with regular cleaning methods. Hard water stains are common in areas with high mineral content in the water supply and can detract from the appearance of surfaces if not addressed promptly. 

These stains commonly appear as white and chalky residue on the following surfaces:

• Glass shower doors
• Bathroom tiles
• Faucets and fixtures
• Bathtubs
• Toilet bowls
• Windows 
• Kitchen countertops
• Mirrors

How to Remove Hard Water Stains From Surfaces

No one likes the look of hard water stains. To effectively remove them from surfaces, follow these steps:

1. Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Saturate the affected areas.
2. Let it Sit: Let the vinegar solution sit on the stains for at least 10 minutes to loosen the hard water deposits.
3. Scrub: Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or brush to scrub the stained areas gently. Apply moderate pressure to break up the deposits without scratching the surface.
4. Rinse: Rinse the area with clean water to remove the vinegar solution and loosened debris. 
5. Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process multiple times.
6. Baking Soda Paste: For extra cleaning power, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the stains, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse as usual.
7. Commercial Cleaners: Alternatively, you can use commercial cleaners specifically formulated to remove hard water stains. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure adequate ventilation when using these products.

Remove Stains From Windows

A very common area of the home that accumulates water stains is exterior windows. With how much water windows are exposed to, it is necessary to regularly address water stains. Similar to remove hard water stains from other surfaces, windows can be cleaned by doing these steps:

1. Take your vinegar solution and spray it directly onto the affected areas of the window.
2. Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes to loosen the hard water deposits.
3. Apply gentle pressure using a non-abrasive material to break up the deposits without scratching the glass.
4. Rinse the window with clean water to remove the solution using a hose or bucket of water.
5. Dry the window with a clean, dry microfiber cloth or squeegee. Buff the glass in circular motions to remove any remaining residue and restore shine.

Hire Professionals for Hard Water Spot Removal

Due to the nature of removing hard water stains from exterior windows, choosing to have professionals do it for you may be the better option. Here are some reasons why having your windows professionally cleaned is beneficial:

• Expertise: Professionals have the knowledge, skills, and experience to effectively identify and address hard water stains using the most appropriate techniques and cleaning solutions. 
• Specialized Equipment: Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and tools designed to tackle hard water stains efficiently, ensuring thorough removal without damaging the surfaces. 
• Time-Saving: Hiring professionals saves time and effort, allowing homeowners to focus on other priorities while the experts handle the cleaning and prevention of hard water stains.
• Preventive Measures: Professionals not only remove existing hard water stains but also offer preventive measures to minimize future buildup. This may include recommending water softeners, applying protective coatings, or providing maintenance tips.
• Consistent Results: Professional cleaners deliver consistent and reliable results, ensuring that hard water stains are effectively removed and surfaces are restored to their original condition.
• Peace of Mind: By entrusting the task to professionals, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind knowing their property is being cared for by trained and qualified experts who prioritize quality and customer satisfaction.

How to Prevent Stains

Preventing hard water stains requires proactive measures to minimize mineral buildup and maintain surfaces’ cleanliness. Here are some effective strategies:

Use Water Softeners: Install a water softening system to reduce the mineral content in your water supply. Water softeners work by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions, preventing hard water stains from forming on surfaces.

Wipe Surfaces Dry: After using water on surfaces prone to hard water stains, such as sinks, showers, and countertops, wipe them dry with a cloth or squeegee. This prevents water from evaporating and leaving behind mineral deposits.

Clean Regularly: Implement a regular cleaning routine to prevent hard water stains from accumulating. Use mild cleaners to remove mineral deposits before they become stubborn stains.

Use Protective Coatings: Apply protective coatings or sealants to surfaces vulnerable to hard water stains. These coatings create a barrier that repels water and minerals.

Monitor Water Temperature: Avoid using hot water for cleaning, as it can accelerate mineral deposition. Instead, use lukewarm or cool water when cleaning surfaces prone to hard water stains.

Choose G&S Window Cleaning

At G&S Window Cleaning, we know the importance of having clean windows, free from any hard water stains. We prioritize the satisfaction of our customers and guarantee you will be pleased with our work. Contact us today to get your windows cleaned and rejuvenated.