1. Nature of work: Residential work typically involves cleaning the exterior of single-family homes, such as siding, decks, patios, roofs, and driveways. Commercial work, on the other hand, involves cleaning the exteriors of multi-family buildings, such as apartment complexes, office buildings, and shopping centers.
2. Customers: Residential customers are typically individual homeowners who want to keep their homes looking clean and presentable. They may request exterior cleaning services once or twice a year. Commercial customers, on the other hand, are typically property managers, business owners, or facility managers who require regular exterior cleaning services to maintain the appearance of their properties.
3. Pricing: Residential jobs are usually priced by the job or by the hour, while commercial jobs are typically priced by the square foot or by the building. Commercial jobs often require more specialized equipment and training, so they may be more expensive than residential jobs.
4. Complexity: Commercial work can be more complex and time-consuming than residential work due to the size and scope of the projects. It may require more equipment and manpower to complete the job, which can increase the costs.
5. Contractual agreements: Commercial work often involves signing a contractual agreement with the property owner or manager to provide ongoing services, while residential work is usually a one-time service with no contractual agreement.

When choosing between residential and commercial work, it’s important to consider your business goals, resources, and capabilities. Each type of work has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh these factors carefully before making a decision.

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1. Build relationships: Establish good relationships with your customers by providing excellent service, being reliable, and communicating clearly. Building a strong relationship with customers can help to ensure they are happy with your service and may be more likely to sign up for recurring contracts.
2. Offer discounts: Consider offering discounts for recurring services, which can be an incentive for customers to sign up for ongoing cleaning services.
3. Schedule ahead: When you complete a job, make sure to discuss scheduling with the customer and set up a regular cleaning schedule that works for them.
4. Provide reminders: Send out email or text message reminders to customers a few days before their scheduled cleaning to confirm the appointment and ensure they are aware of the upcoming service.
5. Follow up: After completing a job, follow up with the customer to ensure they are satisfied with the service and inquire if they would like to schedule regular cleanings.
6. Provide excellent service: Providing top-quality service on each visit can help to ensure customer satisfaction and encourage them to sign up for ongoing services.

Remember, building a loyal customer base takes time and effort, but by providing top-quality service and focusing on customer relationships, you can increase your chances of securing recurring contracts.

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1. Clear the area: Remove any furniture, toys, or other items from the deck or area around the fence.
2. Sweep the deck or fence: Use a broom to sweep away any loose debris such as leaves, twigs, or dirt.
3. Pre-rinse: Rinse the deck or fence with a garden hose to remove any loose dirt or grime.
4. Apply cleaner: Apply a deck or fence cleaner to the surface using a pump sprayer or a garden sprayer. Allow the cleaner to sit on the surface for the amount of time specified on the product label.
5. Scrub the surface: Use a stiff-bristled brush or a pressure washer with a low-pressure setting to scrub the surface and remove any dirt, grime, or stains. If using a pressure washer, use a fan tip nozzle and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the surface to prevent damage.
6. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the surface with a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low-pressure setting to remove any remaining cleaner and debris.
7. Allow to dry: Allow the deck or fence to dry completely before applying any sealer, stain, or paint.

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any cleaning product or equipment used, and to take appropriate safety precautions such as wearing eye protection and gloves. Additionally, it’s a good idea to test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t cause any damage to the wood.

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In exterior cleaning, efflorescence can be removed through a process called acid washing, which involves using a diluted acid solution to dissolve the salts and then rinsing the surface clean. It is important to note that acid washing should only be done by trained professionals, as it can be dangerous if not done properly. Additionally, it is important to identify the root cause of the efflorescence, such as water intrusion, and address that issue to prevent the efflorescence from returning in the future.

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Oil stains can be cleaned with a degreaser and pressure washing. It’s important to use an environmentally-friendly degreaser that won’t harm surrounding plants or animals. For tire marks, a pressure washer with a surface cleaner attachment can be used to remove the staining.

Rust stains can be challenging to remove and may require the use of a specialized rust remover. A popular method is to use a product called F9 BARC, which is specifically designed to remove rust stains from various surfaces.

Hard water spots can be cleaned using a specialized cleaner that is formulated to dissolve the minerals causing the staining. It’s important to rinse the area thoroughly after cleaning to prevent any streaking.

It’s essential to use the appropriate cleaning method for each type of non-organic material, as some surfaces may be more sensitive to certain chemicals or cleaning techniques. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a professional.

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Organic growth or buildup can also occur on gutters, leading to blockages and potential water damage to the property. Regular exterior cleaning, such as soft washing, pressure washing, and gutter cleaning, can remove the buildup of organic material and prevent further damage to the property.

Types in exterior cleaning, there are several types of organic growth that can occur, including:

1. Algae: Algae is a common form of organic growth that is often found on roofs, decks, and siding. It is usually green or black and can be removed with the proper cleaning solutions and techniques.
2. Mold: Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments. It is often found on roofs, siding, and concrete surfaces. It can be removed with the use of a pressure washer or soft washing system, along with the proper cleaning solutions.
3. Mildew: Mildew is a form of fungus that is often found on outdoor surfaces such as decks, siding, and concrete. It is typically white or gray in color and can be removed with the use of a pressure washer or soft washing system, along with the proper cleaning solutions.
4. Lichen: Lichen is a type of growth that is a combination of algae and fungus. It is often found on roofs and other outdoor surfaces and can be removed with the use of a pressure washer or soft washing system, along with the proper cleaning solutions.

To clean these types of organic growth, it is important to first identify the type of growth that is present. Once identified, the appropriate cleaning solution and method can be determined. For example, pressure washing may be appropriate for some surfaces, while others may require a soft washing approach to prevent damage. It is important to use the appropriate safety equipment and follow recommended procedures when cleaning organic growth to ensure the best results and minimize any potential risks.

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1. Soft washing chemical mixing chart: This chart provides guidance on how to mix various chemicals for use in a soft washing system, including ratios and dilution rates.
2. Pressure washing nozzle selection chart: This chart provides information on the different types of pressure washing nozzles and their recommended uses, based on the degree of spray angle and pressure.
3. Water flow and pressure chart: This chart provides guidance on the ideal water flow and pressure settings for different types of pressure washing tasks, such as cleaning concrete, wood, or siding.
4. Gutter cleaning safety diagram: This diagram illustrates the proper safety techniques and equipment needed for cleaning gutters, including the use of ladder stabilizers, safety harnesses, and proper ladder placement.
5. Roof cleaning chemical application diagram: This diagram illustrates the proper technique for applying soft washing chemicals to a roof, including the use of a sprayer or roller and the recommended application rates.

These are just a few examples of the types of charts and diagrams that can be useful for exterior cleaning. There are many resources available online or through professional organizations that can provide additional guidance and support.

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1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): This includes items like hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and respiratory protection. PPE should be used to protect workers from hazards such as falls, chemical exposure, and flying debris.
2. Fall protection: Fall protection equipment such as safety harnesses and anchor points should be used when working at heights, such as on roofs or ladders.
3. Chemical safety: Exterior cleaning companies should use appropriate chemicals for the job and follow all safety precautions, including wearing PPE and properly storing and labeling chemicals.
4. Training: All workers should receive training on safety procedures, equipment operation, and chemical handling. This should include both initial and ongoing training.
5. Equipment maintenance: Equipment should be properly maintained to ensure it is functioning safely and correctly.
6. Emergency procedures: Exterior cleaning companies should have emergency procedures in place for incidents such as chemical spills or worker injuries.
7. Local regulations: Exterior cleaning companies should be aware of any local regulations or requirements related to safety equipment and procedures.

It’s important to prioritize safety in all aspects of exterior cleaning, from equipment selection to training and procedures. By doing so, you can help ensure the safety of your workers and minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.

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1. Assess the job site: Before you begin setting up, you should assess the job site to identify potential hazards, obstacles, and areas that may require special attention. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the scope of the job, the type of surfaces to be cleaned, and any special requirements or customer preferences.
2. Gather equipment and supplies: Once you have assessed the job site, you can begin gathering the necessary equipment and supplies for the job. This may include a soft wash system, hoses, pumps, nozzles, proportioners, and chemical mixtures. Make sure your equipment is in good working order and that you have enough chemical solutions and cleaning agents for the job.
3. Set up the soft wash system: The soft wash system is the heart of the soft washing process, so you need to set it up correctly. This may involve connecting hoses, pumps, and proportioners, and making sure that all the components are working properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure that the soft wash system is set up safely and securely.
4. Prepare the surfaces to be cleaned: Before you begin cleaning, you need to prepare the surfaces to be cleaned by removing debris, furniture, or any other objects that may get in the way. You may also need to pre-treat certain areas with chemical solutions or apply a detergent to help break down dirt and grime.
5. Apply the soft wash solution: With your soft wash system set up and the surfaces prepped, you can begin applying the soft wash solution to the surfaces to be cleaned. Make sure to apply the solution evenly and thoroughly, using the appropriate nozzle and pressure setting for the job.
6. Allow the solution to work: Once the soft wash solution is applied, you need to allow it to work for a set amount of time. This may vary depending on the type of surface being cleaned and the specific chemical mixture being used. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take care not to overapply or let the solution dry on the surface.
7. Rinse and clean up: After the soft wash solution has had time to work, you can rinse the surfaces thoroughly using your soft wash system. Make sure to use the appropriate nozzle and pressure setting to avoid damaging the surface. Once the job is complete, you should clean up any equipment, supplies, and debris, and leave the job site in a clean and safe condition.

Overall, setting up for a soft wash job requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a focus on safety and efficiency. With the right equipment, supplies, and techniques, you can achieve great results and build a reputation for excellence in the exterior cleaning industry.

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1. Sodium hypochlorite (bleach): This is a common disinfectant and sanitizer used to remove algae, mold, mildew, and other organic stains from exterior surfaces, including roofs, walls, and concrete. It is often used in soft washing and pressure washing.
2. Hydrogen peroxide: This is a powerful oxidizing agent used to remove organic stains and odors, such as pet urine or blood, from exterior surfaces. It is often used in conjunction with sodium hypochlorite.
3. Phosphoric acid: This is a common ingredient in rust removers and is used to remove rust stains from exterior surfaces, such as concrete, masonry, and metal.
4. Alkaline cleaners: These are often used for heavy-duty cleaning tasks, such as removing grease and oil from concrete or metal surfaces. They are highly effective and can be used in both pressure washing and soft washing.
5. Citric acid: This is a natural and environmentally friendly chemical used for cleaning and removing hard water stains from exterior surfaces, such as windows, gutters, and other metal surfaces.

When using any chemical in exterior cleaning, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines. It is also a good idea to test any chemical in a small, inconspicuous area before using it on a larger surface.

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