Why are you called Chemwash?
The story behind our name goes back to 1981, when we introduced a completely new exterior cleaning technique to New Zealand. Instead of relying on abrasive high-pressure water blasting (which often causes damage), we pioneered a low-pressure cleaning system using biodegradable detergents to do the hard work. Of course, we didn't want to use any harsh or damaging chemicals, so we hired an industrial chemist to create a specialised formula. The result? Salt-based detergents that are completely safe for all exterior surfaces, as well as people, pets, and the environment. In fact, it's actually very similar to the washing up liquid under your kitchen sink!
At the time, this use of professional detergents (the “chem” part) was what truly set us apart. It allowed us to achieve outstanding results without damaging surfaces, which really changed the game. This innovative approach is how the name Chemwash was born. Today, more than 40 years on, Chemwash continues to be a pioneer in our industry, giving kiwis great results with no risk of damage.
Which areas does Chemwash service?
Chemwash has local operators right througout the country, from the top of the North Island to the bottom of the South!
Our main service areas include Auckland, Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, Hawkes Bay, Manawatu, Wellington, Nelson Tasman, Canterbury, Otago, and Southland. So, if you're not sure whether we service your area, we probably do! Just request an online quote and we'll let you know.
What does your standard house wash include?
The standard house wash includes the exterior of the gutters and exposed downpipes, fascia boards, soffits (downward-facing surfaces), all of the cladding and exposed foundations, window rinse and garage doors. Extras can be added such as decks, fencing, roofs, sheds, patio, walkways, pool areas, gutter cleaning & spider treatments.
Can you clean without high-pressure water blasting?
Our method is far safer than traditional high-pressure water blasting. We use a combination of low-pressure water and specially formulated detergents tailored to each property. The detergents are sprayed over the surface, where they loosen and cling to dirt, allowing us to wash it away gently. No need for harsh force!
What about my windows?
Your windows and walls get cleaned during our exterior House Wash service. We can do the exterior windows as a standalone service, but many of our customers prefer to enjoy the result of a full exterior clean. When we clean windows as a separate service, we use a Pure Water system which has the trace elements removed. This reduces any scaling or watermarks you get with regular tap water. Unfortunately, this will not remove existing watermarks created by previous cleaning efforts.
Can you clean a two-storey or three-storey house?
Absolutely! We can easily reach the top storey of most homes with our long ladders. If needed, we use rope and harness equipment for roof access to ensure safety. Most roofs can be cleaned efficiently from our ladders, but for harder-to-reach areas, we have specialist access equipment to get the job done. No property is too big for us to clean.
Does anyone need to be home when you come to wash our house?
No, you do not need to be home when our professionals come to wash your home, provided we can safely gain access to the property.
Is there anything I should do before you come to clean my house?
Please ensure pets are inside, move furniture or other items away from the side of the house, bring in any washing off the line, and securely close all windows and doors.
Which products do you use?
We value sustainability, so our exterior cleaning products are powerful against grime but gentle on the planet. As a long-established exterior cleaning company, we have access to products designed to resolve a range of cleaning issues.
Will Chemwash Exterior Cleaning products harm my plants?
The cleaning product we use has been specifically designed not to kill your plants. And, as our team is highly efficient, it’s usually only a small amount of overspray (if any) that finds its way onto foliage. While we are confident that our product is safe for use around plants, if you want to take extra precautions, we recommend introducing a ‘vapour barrier’. Simply water your garden before we arrive, then rinse again after we leave. If your mobility makes this difficult, we can even do it for you – just ask!
Are the detergents safe for my pets?
Our detergents are safe for use around both pets and people. That said, when it comes to our furry friends, it’s better to err on the safe side. So, we recommend keeping your pets inside while we are cleaning your property and keeping them off affected areas, like driveways, until they are dry.
Can you clear our my gutters?
Yes, we can! Gutter Cleaning can easily be overlooked amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but don’t leave yours until winter before getting them cleaned. To avoid potential problems in your home, have your gutters cleaned on a regular annual or twice-yearly schedule that works for you.
Can you clean my concrete or cobble paths?
Yes, we clean paths in a range of materials. You have two main options here. First, we can use a traditional low-pressure cleaning method, which gives you immediate results but can risk blowing out some of the locking sand between your cobbles. The second option is for us to spray treat using the same product and process we use on roofs. This will kill any moss or lichen and freshen the appearance of your cobbles; however, the results can take 6-9 months. Speak to us to find the best cobble or concrete cleaning treatment for your property.
Can you clean my deck and make it less slippery?
Yes, and yes. For the vast majority of Deck Cleaning projects, we remove dirt and grime using a low-pressure detergent-based system. It will give you a much better result than a standard water blaster and won’t scar the wood.
My roof is covered in lichen and moss – can you help?
Yes! Our Roof Spray Treatment keeps moss, mould and lichen away from your roof for up to two years. We simply apply our industrial-grade products and then let nature take its course. In 6-9 months, it will all wash or blow away naturally. We recommend a repeat treatment annually years to maintain and extend the life of your roof. We also offer instant roof washing. Every inch of the roof surface is manually cleaned via our soft wash process leaving a sparkling clean roof on the same day as the job is completed.
Will a spray treatment be enough to get my roof ready for painting?
If you want to remove moss, mould and lichen on exterior paintwork, a spray treatment is the way forward, but it won’t leave your roof paint-ready. We can carry out specific Pre-Paint Roof Cleaning to prepare your roof for painting. This instantly cleans your roof using our soft wash process, taking care of any loose or oxidised coatings. Just ask!
What’s in your spider control treatment?
We use a synthetic pesticide (Bifenthrin) for our spider control treatments, which is widely used in industries such as food manufacturing. While it can smell a little at first, it’s safe to use around people and pets. We recommend you leave the house for 3-4 hours after treatment to allow it to settle.
Can I get a free quote?
Of course! We’re always happy to provide a free, no-obligation quote. Simply request a quote online or give us a call. One of our experts will be in touch as soon as we can. We can even visit your property in-person to ensure the most accurate quote.