Spring in Northern Virginia arrives with a very specific and very heavy pollen season, typically peaking in April, followed quickly by rising humidity that sets the tone for the rest of the year. Getting ahead of both means tackling exterior cleaning in a specific order, not just whenever it’s convenient.

1. Windows and Screens First

Winter leaves a dulling film on glass even without pollen in the mix, and screens accumulate dust that gets pushed into your home the moment you open a window for the first warm day. Cleaning both now – before peak pollen season hits – means less compounded buildup to deal with once the trees are in full bloom.

2. Gutters, While You Can Still See Into Them

Before spring growth fills in and leaves are back on trees overhead, gutters are easier to inspect and clear. Waiting until pollen season is in full swing means clearing gutters that are now also coated in a thick yellow-green layer.

3. Driveways and Walkways

Winter road salt residue, combined with whatever tracked in over the colder months, sits on concrete and paved surfaces until it’s washed away. Pressure washing driveways and walkways in early spring removes this before pollen season adds a second layer on top of it.

4. Siding and Exterior Walls

Algae and mildew that developed during the damper winter months are easiest to remove before summer humidity gives them another few months to establish further. A spring pressure wash on siding also gives a clear baseline to spot any winter damage that needs repair.

5. Decks and Patios

Wood and composite decking that spent winter under snow or standing water often needs a soft-wash pass to remove mildew before it’s safe and pleasant to use for the season. This is also the ideal time to check for any boards that need attention before regular use resumes.

Quick Reference Checklist

• Windows – interior and exterior, before peak pollen
• Screens – removed, washed both sides, reinstalled
• Gutters – cleared while visibility is easiest
• Driveways and walkways – pressure washed
• Siding – checked and washed for algae/mildew
• Decks and patios – soft-washed before season use

Doing these in this order minimizes redoing work later in the season – each step builds on a cleaner baseline than the one before it.