As a property manager, ensuring that your apartment building looks neat and well-maintained is always a top priority. The cleanliness of the exterior of your building, in particular, can make a huge difference in its visual appeal and the impression it creates on potential tenants. However, cleaning the exterior of a multi-story or large apartment building can be challenging. It requires expertise, patience, and a bit of effort to get the job done right. In this blog post, we will explore 7 tips for cleaning the exterior of your apartment building like a professional.
Start with Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is an essential part of cleaning the exterior of an apartment building. It helps remove dirt, grime, and other buildups that have accumulated over time. Before you start pressure washing, make sure you cover any electrical outlets and fixtures with plastic bags to protect them from getting wet. Also, use a mild detergent for washing and rinse the soap off thoroughly.
Clean the Windows
Windows play a significant role in the visual appeal of your apartment building. So, it’s essential to keep them clean and sparkling. While it may seem like a daunting task, cleaning multi-story windows can be made easy with the right tools. Use a squeegee with a long handle and a bucket of water mixed with a good quality window cleaning solution. Make sure you start from the top and work your way down to avoid streaking.
Pay Attention to the Sidewalks and Driveways
The sidewalks and driveways leading up to your apartment building can accumulate dirt, leaves, and other debris. It’s crucial to clean them periodically to maintain a neat and tidy appearance. A simple sweep or use of a pressure washer can do the trick. Additionally, make sure to patch any pot holes or cracks to prevent any potential hazards for tenants and visitors.
Scrub the Gutters and Downspouts
The gutters and downspouts are an important part of your building’s drainage system. They need to be cleaned regularly to prevent water from accumulating and causing damage. Use a ladder and some gloves to remove any dirt, debris, or leaves that have collected over time. You can also flush them with water to ensure they’re completely clean.
Utilize Soft Washing for Delicate Surfaces
Not all surfaces in your apartment building can withstand the pressure of a pressure washer. For delicate surfaces like stucco, brick, or wood, soft washing can be a great alternative. It’s a low-pressure cleaning method that uses specialized detergents to remove dirt and other buildups. You can hire a professional cleaning company to do this for you.
Get Rid of Graffiti
Graffiti can take away from the visual appeal of your building and can be frustrating to deal with. The key is to remove it as soon as possible. You can use commercial graffiti removal products specifically formulated for different surfaces such as brick, stucco, or painted surfaces. Alternatively, you can use a pressure washer if the graffiti is not too deep.
Trim the Landscaping
Lastly, don’t forget about the landscaping around your apartment building. Keep the bushes, trees, and hedges trimmed and well-maintained to enhance the curb appeal of your property. Overgrown foliage or trees can not only detract from the visual beauty but can also be hazardous to pedestrians and pedestrians.
Keeping the exterior of your apartment building clean takes effort, but it’s important to maintain the aesthetic look of your property, enhance its value, and attract potential tenants. These 7 tips for cleaning the exterior of your apartment building like a professional can help you stay on top of cleaning and maintenance tasks. Remember, it’s always a good idea to hire professionals for more substantial jobs, and as always, safety must come first. Happy cleaning!