Why you should power wash before painting:

If you’re a homeowner in Nanaimo, Parksville, or Qualicum Beach considering an exterior repaint, this post is for you. Our coastal climate—with rain, salt air, and moss growth—creates unique challenges for siding, trim, and decks. Skipping the right prep step (power washing) is one of the biggest reasons paint fails early.

Paint only sticks to what it’s bonded to

Here’s the hard truth: paint doesn’t bond to dirt, mildew, or chalky residue. Even the most premium exterior paints from Benjamin Moore or Cloverdale will peel or blister if applied over contaminants. From invisible salt film near the ocean to dust blown in from summer construction, unwashed siding is a recipe for failure.

The benefits of power washing before painting

1. Removes dirt, mildew, and pollutants

Over time, Vancouver Island homes collect a mix of organic growth, salt spray, and airborne grime. Power washing clears these contaminants, ensuring paint has a clean surface to grab onto.

2. Reveals hidden issues

A thorough wash often exposes cracks, soft wood, or failing caulk that might otherwise be missed. Catching these early prevents wasted paint and bigger repair bills later.

3. Improves paint adhesion

Properly cleaned surfaces allow primers and finish coats to penetrate and bond, meaning your investment lasts longer—no early peeling or bubbling.

4. Enhances appearance and uniformity

Even coverage isn’t just about the paint itself. A clean surface provides consistent porosity, which translates to a more uniform finish in both color and sheen.

5. Extends the lifespan of your paint job

Every year of extra life you get from a paint job reduces long-term costs. Power washing is a small upfront step with a huge return in durability.

Common homeowner mistakes

• DIY with a garden hose: It won’t remove mildew spores or chalky paint residue.
  
• Overpowering the washer: Too much pressure can scar siding and force water behind it.
  
• Skipping detergents: Plain water won’t remove greasy residue, algae, or mildew stains.

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How Riverside Painting does it right

Our crews use commercial-grade equipment, the right nozzles for each surface, and eco-friendly detergents safe for landscaping. We adjust pressure for wood, stucco, and hardboard siding to avoid damage. After power washing, we allow surfaces to dry properly before sanding, priming, and painting. It’s a system that minimizes risk and maximizes results.

When to schedule power washing

Ideally, power washing should happen shortly before exterior painting—typically within a few days to a week, depending on weather. In Nanaimo’s climate, spring and early summer are perfect for prep, while the air is drier and surfaces cure properly.

When you book exterior painting with Riverside, power washing isn’t an optional extra—it’s built into our prep. That means you get cleaner siding, better adhesion, and longer-lasting results. It’s why we back our work with written guarantees of up to 10 years.

Ready to power wash your home?

Thinking about repainting your home’s exterior this year? Request your free estimate today. Our team will walk you through prep, power washing, painting, and cleanup, so you know exactly what to expect—no surprises, just beautiful, durable results.