Property managers are responsible for keeping investment properties in good repair. One of the best ways to improve the “curb appeal” and retain the maximum property value is to keep buildings, driveways and parking lots clean. Power washing (also known as pressure washing) is an important part of the regular and ongoing building maintenance. Here are five important reasons to consider power washing your property.

1. Power washing adds years to the life of a building. Dirt, grime, mold and mildew can and will cause rot, decay and premature failure of building materials, costing future renovations and replacements. Regularly having your property exterior cleaned by a professional cleaning contractor will dramatically cut down on these costly repairs. Make routine quarterly or bi-annual power wash treatments part of the yearly maintenance budget.

2. Power washing reduces mold and other allergens. Living in Houston where the humidity is high and the temperatures stay moderate throughout the year, we experience a lot of mold and mildew growth on buildings. This can become a health hazard to employees and customers. Regular power washing treatments keep these and other health hazards to a minimum.

3. Power washing removes urban pollutants. Building located downtown, near chemical plants or beside busy freeways can get extra dirty just from car exhaust pollution. An experienced professional power washing consultant can recommend just the right mix of chemical solutions to safely and effectively remove pollutant residue from buildings.

4. Clean more than just the building. Why take the time to clean the building without cleaning the concrete driveways or adjacent parking lots as well. If you are looking for the complete “curb appeal” makeover, remember to have these areas cleaned as well.

Note: Concrete cleaning requires different chemicals than buildings do. Don’t make the mistake of cleaning just the oil spots on the concrete, because suddenly you have the reverse issue - the concrete driveway is gray with pollutants and has clean spots.

5. Property Maintenance Should Be Done By Professionals Experienced power wash professionals understand what is takes to get the job done right the first time. Property managers who think they can save money by “doing it themselves” are in for a rude awakening. There is a great investment in equipment, training and knowing the right chemical mixture for the specific job. Professional power wash companies have invested in industrial strength equipment, have training in environmentally safe chemical mixtures that will clean buildings but not ruin the adjacent landscape.

6. Shop Around for the Best Value When you are ready to get your property cleaned, begin a search online, call peer property owners and start asking questions. Do not expect to get an accurate quote over the phone. Honest, reputable companies will recommend meeting with you to give a free estimate. The best value may not be the lowest bid, because above all you want to hire someone that KNOWS what they are doing and provides good service.

Author Harold Barker runs HBEquipment.com;

Pressure Washing Companies, Auto Detailing Firms and Mobile Car Washers who have been in business for a while and are following all of the environmental rules, have proper insurance and have the labor to keep up intensive scheduling should consider rental car corporations as potential clientele. They pay on time and have more than a lot of work to keep a company business. So it makes sense when considering niches to look at this sub-sector in fleet washing, as it is good to get the larger checks each month.

Small independent pressure washing, car washing and mobile detailing companies will not be able to have these markets because the Rent-A-Car agencies will need a company with the proper image, appearance and attitude to be doing work on their property along with the proper background checks (for airport locations) and environmental issues awareness and preparedness.

These car rental agencies will most likely require 1 million to 5 million in additional insurance certificates depending on the areas of work at the airport and the airport authority regulations and operating requirements for airport service vendors. Independent Pressure Washing firms and Car Washing Companies should consider adding Rent-A-Car Agency Customers to their market mix in 2006.

Author Lance Winslow rungs OnlineThinkTank.com.