How often should I clean my gutters in summer?

Most Chicago-area homes need gutters cleared at least twice a year, but a mid-summer check is smart because spring debris and tree growth clog them right before peak storm season. If your home sits under heavy oak, maple, or walnut cover, plan on an extra summer cleaning to keep water flowing.

Why are there mosquitoes around my house even without a pond?

Standing water is the culprit, and clogged gutters are one of the most common backyard breeding sites. As little as a tablespoon of trapped water can hatch hundreds of mosquitoes in under a week. Clear your gutters, empty birdbaths and buckets weekly, and check screens for tears.

Is summer a good time to power wash my house?

Yes. Early summer is ideal because spring pollen and algae are still soft and easy to remove before heat bakes the stains in. Dry, sunny days also let surfaces dry quickly. Just match pressure to the surface - gentle on wood, higher on concrete - to avoid permanent damage.

Why do my windows streak so badly in summer?

Summer heat dries cleaning solution on the glass before you can wipe it away, which leaves streaks. Clean windows early in the morning, in the evening, or on an overcast day so the surface stays wet long enough to finish cleanly, and rinse off dust first so you are not grinding grit across the pane.

Should I clean my gutters in summer if I already did it in spring?

Often, yes. Maple seeds, blossoms, and early leaf drop keep filling gutters after a spring cleaning, and Chicago's heaviest storms arrive in summer. A quick mid-season check and flush ensures water actually reaches the downspout when a downpour hits, protecting your siding and foundation.

What's the difference between power washing and soft washing my home?

They are two tools for two jobs. Power washing uses high-pressure water to strip grime from tough surfaces - concrete driveways, patios, and brick can usually take 2,500-3,000 PSI. Soft washing uses low pressure plus specialized cleaning solutions to break down algae, mildew, and pollen on more delicate surfaces like vinyl or aluminum siding, painted wood, stucco, and roof shingles, without forcing water behind panels or stripping the finish. A good crew reads each surface and switches between the two, so your walkways get full pressure while your siding gets a gentle soft wash. Blasting siding or a roof with high pressure is one of the fastest ways to cause leaks and costly repairs, which is exactly why matching the method to the material matters.