PRO SERVE Blog
INDEX
1. About Pro Serve Exterior Cleaning.
2. Removing iron water staining.
3. Safe use of Sodium Hypochlorite.
4. Vanadium staining and other common exterior stains.
POST ONE
About Pro Serve
Saturday 7th June 2025
Welcome to Pro Serve Exterior cleaning’s first Blog post!
When it comes to making your property shine, nothing compares to professional exterior cleaning services. Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or managing a commercial facility, maintaining the outside of your property is just as important as the inside. From window cleaning to solar panel cleaning, pressure washing, roof washing, soft washing, and even heavy plant vehicle cleaning, we’ve got you covered.
Why Exterior Cleaning Matters
First impressions count. A clean exterior boosts curb appeal, protects your investment, and prolongs the life of your property’s materials. Mould, algae, moss, dirt, and pollutants don’t just look bad—they can cause real damage if left untreated.
Our Comprehensive Exterior Cleaning Services
Sparkling windows make a huge difference. Our professional window cleaning service removes dirt, dust, fingerprints and bird droppings using our top of the range Reverse Osmosis De-Ionized water system, improving visibility and the overall appearance of your home or business. We offer both residential pure water window cleaning and commercial pure water window cleaning solutions.
Dirty solar panels can lose up to 30% of their efficiency. Our specialized solar panel cleaning service ensures maximum sunlight absorption by removing dust, pollen, bird droppings, and other debris, safely and effectively using our Reverse Osmosis De-Ionized water system.
Revive your surfaces with high-powered pressure washing. We clean driveways, sidewalks, patios, fences, brick walls, decks, pool surrounds and everything in-between. Our team removes years of grime, oil stains, moss, algae, bore stains and weathering, restoring your surfaces to like-new condition using high and low pressure, top of the range surface cleaners and the right chemicals.
Protect your roof and building exterior, improve its lifespan and give the curb appeal a boost with our professional roof and exterior washing. We use a combination of soft washing techniques and eco-friendly cleaning agents to remove black streaks, lichen, moss, and algae without damaging your cladding, shingles or tiles.
Perfect for more delicate surfaces, soft washing is a low-pressure method combined with biodegradable chemicals to safely clean siding, stucco, painted wood, and other surfaces. It’s ideal for homes, buildings, and structures where high-pressure might cause damage.
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and foundation issues. Our gutter cleaning service clears out leaves, twigs, and debris to ensure your gutters flow properly year-round.
Construction equipment and heavy plant vehicles accumulate tough grime and grease. Our specialized plant machinery cleaning service ensures your fleet is clean, professional-looking, and operating efficiently.
Keep your business or industrial property looking professional with exterior cladding cleaning. We use advanced equipment and safe detergents to remove grime, mould, and environmental build-up from all types of exterior surfaces.
Unwanted graffiti? We provide fast and effective graffiti removal using safe methods that won’t damage your surfaces.
We offer tailored commercial exterior cleaning for shopping centres, schools, office buildings, warehouses, and more. First impressions count, let us help you make the best one.
Why Choose Us?
Fully insured with a $20M Public Liability Insurance.
Eco-friendly cleaning products.
Top of the range equipment and techniques.
Attention to detail.
Competitive pricing.
Satisfaction guaranteed.
Friendly, polite and professional staff.
LOCATIONS/AREAS COVERED.
Guilderton, Woodridge, Two Rocks, Yanchep, Gingin, Neergabby, Yeal, Bambun, Chittering, Lower Chittering, Muchea, Toodyay, Wanneroo, Eglinton, Alkimos, Carabooda, Butler, Jindalee, Quinns Rocks, Merriwa, Ridgewood, Nowergup, Neerabup, Clarkson, Mindarie, Tamala Park, Burns Beach, Kinross, Iluka, Currambine, Joondalup, Tapping, Carramar, Banksia Grove, Ashby, Sinagra, Mariginiup, The Vines, Ellenbrook, Wangara, Ocean Reef, Mullaloo, Hillarys, Brabham, Dayton, Bennett Springs, Malaga, Ballajura, Balcatta, Duncraig, Karrinyup, Osborne Park, Morley, Bayswater, Bassendean, Midland, Midvale, Swan View, Glen Forrest, Parkerville, Stoneville, Mundaring, Sawyers Valley, Chidlow, Bushmead, Mount Lawley, Perth, Perth CBD, West Perth, East Perth, North Perth, South Perth, Subiaco, City Beach, Scarborough, Innaloo, Wembley Downs, Floreat, Leederville, Maylands, Belmont, Cloverdale, Perth Airport, High Wycombe, Maida Vale, Gooseberry Hill, Piesse Brook, Canning Mills, Karragullen, Roleystone, Kelsmscott, Gosnells, Thornlie, Canning Vale, Cannington, Willeton, Booragoon, Mosman Park, Nedlands, Claremont, Crawley, Swanbourne, Cottesloe, Leighton, Fremantle, Melville, Attadale, Bicton, Applecross, Como, Victoruia Park, Bentley, Kewdale, Forrest Field, Welshpool, Winthrop, Murdoch, Leeming, Willeton, Parkwood, Maddington, Martin, Huntingdale, Kardinya, Hamilton Hill, South beach, Beaconsfield, Hilton, Coolbellup, North Lake, Karragullen, Spearwood, Coogee, Bibra Lake, Yangebup, Cockburn, Jandakot, Sucess, Treeby, Harrisdale, Southern River, Champion Lakes, Kelmscott, Jarrahdale, Armadale, Beeliar, Henderson, Wattleup, Hammond Park, Aubin Grove, Banjup, Haynes, Hilbert, Mount Richon, wungong, Bedfordale, Darling Downs, Oakford, Wandi, Mandogalup, Hope Valley, Orelia, parmelia, Casuarina, Cardup, Byford, Karrakup, Serpentine, Mardella, Balvadis, Warnbro, Cooloongup, Rockingham, Shoalwater, Safety Bay, Wellard, Whitby, Port Kennedy, Hopeland, Keysbrook, Karnup, Golden Bay, Singleton, Keralup, Madora Bay, Lakelands, San Remo,Meadow Springs, Parklands, Mandurah, Sherwood, Silver Sands, Greenfields, Barragup, Nambeelup,
Book Your Exterior Cleaning Today!
Whether you need pure water window cleaning, pure water solar panel cleaning, surface pressure washing, roof washing, soft washing, or heavy plant vehicle cleaning, we’re the team you can trust. We provide expert exterior cleaning services to keep your property looking its absolute best all year round.
👉 Contact us today for a free quote or to schedule your exterior cleaning service!
www.proserveexteriorcleaning.com
office@proserveexteriorcleaning.com
Have a great day Perth and stay tuned for more blog post's (hopefully they'll get better as we get used to this ay) 😊
POST TWO
Removing iron water staining
Tuesday 17th June 2025
How to Remove Iron Water Stains from Concrete and Other Surfaces
Iron water stains are a frustrating problem for homeowners, especially if you rely on well water. These reddish-brown rust stains can appear on concrete, brick, siding, fences, and outdoor fixtures, leaving surfaces looking dirty and poorly maintained. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can effectively remove these stains and restore your surfaces to their original condition.
What Causes Iron Water Stains?
Iron water stains are caused by water with a high iron content. When this water comes into contact with air, the iron oxidizes (rusts) and leaves behind unsightly reddish-brown streaks. Common sources include:
Sprinkler systems using well water.
Hose bibs or outdoor faucets.
Leaky irrigation pipes.
Drainage from metal surfaces like gutters or iron fixtures.
These stains are particularly stubborn and won’t usually come off with regular soap and water.
Best Methods for Removing Iron Water Stains.
1. Commercial Rust Removers.
There are many rust and iron stain removers available on the market designed specifically for outdoor surfaces.
Pros:
Fast and effective.
Formulated for concrete, stone, and metal.
Cons:
Can be harsh or corrosive.
May require protective gear and good ventilation.
Tip: Look for products labelled “safe for concrete” or “outdoor rust remover.” Apply as directed and rinse thoroughly.
2. Oxalic Acid-Based Cleaners.
Oxalic acid is a natural compound found in some plants and is commonly used in cleaning solutions for rust.
Instructions:
Mix with water according to label directions.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
Scrub and rinse well.
Caution: Wear gloves and eye protection. Oxalic acid is less harsh than muriatic acid but still requires care.
3. DIY Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
For small stains or more delicate surfaces, you can try a homemade approach.
Steps:
Sprinkle baking soda on the stain.
Pour lemon juice (or white vinegar) over the area.
Let it fizz for a few minutes.
Scrub with a brush and rinse.
Note: This is most effective on mild stains and safe for painted or sensitive surfaces.
4. Pressure Washing (with Caution)
While pressure washing won’t always remove iron stains on its own, it can be combined with chemical treatments to enhance results.
Tips:
Pre-treat the stain with rust remover.
Use a medium pressure setting.
Avoid damaging delicate surfaces or mortar joints.
Preventing Iron Water Stains
Once you’ve cleaned the stains, you’ll want to prevent them from returning.
Prevention Tips:
Redirect sprinklers away from concrete and walls.
Install a sediment filter or iron filter on your well water system.
Seal concrete and masonry with a waterproof sealant to reduce absorption.
Fix any leaks in irrigation or plumbing systems.
Final Thoughts
Iron water stains are stubborn but not permanent. Whether you're tackling a stained driveway, patio, or siding, the key is using the right cleaner for the surface and acting sooner rather than later. With a little effort and preventative care, you can keep your property looking clean, professional, and rust-free.
Have a great day Perth and thanks for reading our blog 😊
POST THREE
SAFE USE OF SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE DURING CLEANING
Tuesday 1st July 2025
When it comes to exterior cleaning, sodium hypochlorite is one of the most effective agents for killing mould, mildew, algae, and bacteria. Commonly referred to as bleach, it’s a staple in the soft washing and pressure washing industry — especially for cleaning roofs, walls, and concrete. However, this powerful chemical must be handled with care. In this post, we’ll cover how to use sodium hypochlorite safely and effectively on your pressure washing jobs.
🔬 What Is Sodium Hypochlorite?
Sodium hypochlorite is the active ingredient in household bleach and industrial-grade disinfectants. In the pressure washing world, it’s typically used in a concentration of 4% to 12.5%, depending on the application. It works by oxidising organic matter — making it excellent for removing mould, algae, and biological staining.
⚠️ Risks of Improper Use
While sodium hypochlorite is effective, it can also be dangerous if mishandled. Risks include:
Skin and eye irritation
Damage to plants and landscaping
Corrosion of metals
Inhalation hazards
Environmental contamination
That’s why safety must always be your top priority.
1. Use Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
Always wear:
Chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile or neoprene).
Safety goggles or a full face shield.
Long sleeves and pants.
Waterproof boots.
Respirator mask if working in poorly ventilated areas or mixing high concentrations.
2. Correct Dilution Matters.
Never use full-strength sodium hypochlorite on surfaces. Always dilute to the appropriate ratio depending on the surface:
Roofs & siding: 1–3% SH solution.
Concrete: Up to 4% SH, followed by a thorough rinse.
Use surfactants to help the solution cling to surfaces and reduce runoff.
3. Avoid Overspray and Runoff.
Protect plants, grass, and painted surfaces by:
Pre-wetting vegetation before application.
Using tarps or plastic sheeting for protection.
Rinsing thoroughly after cleaning.
Applying a neutralising agent like sodium thiosulfate where needed.
4. Mix Chemicals Safely.
Never mix sodium hypochlorite with other chemicals like ammonia, acids, or detergents that aren’t approved. This can produce toxic chlorine gas.
Always:
Mix in a well-ventilated area.
Add SH to water (not the other way around).
Use designated containers and equipment.
5. Label and Store Properly.
Store SH in a cool, shaded place.
Use labelled chemical containers with proper safety warnings.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Never leave containers open or unattended on-site.
🌱 Environmentally Responsible Cleaning
Sodium hypochlorite can harm aquatic life and the environment if not used responsibly. Always:
Avoid applying near storm drains or water sources.
Use low-pressure methods to reduce overspray.
Rinse all surfaces and surrounding areas thoroughly.
Follow local environmental guidelines and waste disposal regulations.
🚧 Post-Job Safety Checks
After using SH:
Rinse your equipment thoroughly to prevent corrosion.
Check for chemical residues or damage to surfaces.
Dispose of any unused solution according to safety regulations.
Record the concentration used and any incidents for compliance and safety audits.
Final Thoughts
When used correctly, sodium hypochlorite is a safe, effective cleaning agent that delivers professional results. But it’s crucial to follow the right safety protocols to protect yourself, your clients, and the environment. Whether you're soft washing a roof or pressure cleaning a driveway, safety and responsibility should always come first.
Need professional exterior cleaning done right?
Trust the experts at PRO SERVE EXTERIOR CLEANING — fully trained, certified, and experienced in the safe use of sodium hypochlorite and other cleaning agents. Contact us today for a free quote!
office@proserveexteriorcleaning.com
Have a great day Perth 😊
POST FOUR
Vanadium Staining and Other Common Exterior Stains: Causes, Removal & Prevention
Sunday 27th July 2025
Australia’s varied climate — from coastal humidity to urban pollution — can lead to a wide range of exterior surface stains. Whether you're managing a commercial property, industrial site, or a residential development, keeping surfaces clean isn’t just about appearance; it’s also about longevity and safety.
One stain that often puzzles property owners and trades alike is vanadium staining. In this post, we’ll break down what vanadium staining is, how to remove it, and explore other common stains that affect building exteriors across Australia.
What is Vanadium Staining?
Vanadium staining is a green, yellow, or brown stain most commonly seen on light-coloured clay bricks, such as cream, white or light beige. The stain comes from vanadium salts present in the clay during manufacturing. When exposed to moisture, the salts dissolve and rise to the surface. As the water evaporates, they crystallise into visible stains.
Why It Happens in Australia:
Frequent use of light-coloured face bricks in modern architecture.
High humidity and rainfall in many regions.
Use of hydrochloric acid for post-construction cleaning, which reacts negatively with vanadium salts.
How to Remove Vanadium Stains:
Avoid hydrochloric acid at all costs — it makes stains worse.
Use a vanadium stain remover (often oxalic acid-based) designed for clay bricks.
Always conduct a patch test before full application.
Hire a professional for best results – DIY methods can damage masonry.
Other Common Types of External Stains in Australia
1. Efflorescence
A white, powdery residue found on bricks, concrete, and blockwork.
Cause:
Moisture dissolves salts inside the masonry and brings them to the surface.
Removal:
Dry brushing followed by light pressure washing.
Commercial efflorescence cleaners.
Ensure surfaces are sealed and protected from water ingress.
2. Rust Stains
These look like reddish or brown streaks, usually near metal fixtures, structural reinforcements, or garden features.
Cause:
Corroding metals.
Rainwater runoff from rusted surfaces.
Removal:
Oxalic acid or rust-specific cleaners.
Replace or coat affected metal fixtures to prevent recurrence.
3. Organic Growth: Algae, Mould & Lichen
Common on roofs, rendered walls, paths, and shaded areas.
Cause:
Moist conditions and lack of sunlight allow organic growth to thrive.
Removal:
Biocidal treatments followed by soft washing.
Pressure washing for hard surfaces like concrete and stone.
Preventative cleaning to stop regrowth.
4. Oil & Grease Stains
Typical in car parks, service bays, and driveways.
Cause:
Motor oil, machinery grease, and food-related spills.
Removal:
Industrial degreasers.
Hot water pressure washing.
Surface sealing helps prevent long-term absorption.
5. Tannin Stains
Brownish stains found beneath trees or around timber structures.
Cause:
Leaching from leaves, bark, mulch, and unsealed wood.
Removal:
Tannin removers or diluted bleach solution.
Pressure or soft washing depending on surface type.
Trim vegetation and remove organic debris regularly.
Professional Exterior Cleaning in Perth, Western Australia
At Pro Serve Exterior Cleaning, we specialise in removing stubborn stains from:
Commercial buildings.
Apartment/strata complexes.
Government and public facilities.
Shopping centres and car parks.
Industrial yards and warehouses.
Residential properties.
& many more.
We use industry-specific equipment, eco-friendly cleaning agents, and tailored methods for every type of stain and surface, ensuring effective and safe results.
Our Key Services:
Vanadium stain removal.
Efflorescence treatment.
Soft washing for organic growth.
High-pressure cleaning.
Oil and grease removal.
Scheduled maintenance programs.
Why Choose a Professional?
Untrained cleaning or the wrong chemicals can worsen stains or permanently damage surfaces. Hiring a certified professional ensures:
Correct chemical application.
Surface-safe techniques.
Compliance with local, national and environmental standards.
Long-lasting results.
Book a Free Exterior Cleaning Assessment Today!
Don’t let unsightly stains ruin your property’s appearance or structural integrity. Contact [Your Company Name] for a free quote or on-site inspection anywhere in Perth WA
📞 Call us on 0489 203 364
📧 Email: office@proserveexteriorcleaning.com
Have a great day Perth 😊
POST FIVE
Reverse Osmosis Deionized (RODI) Pure Water Window Cleaning The Gold Standard for Spotless Glass
When it comes to professional window cleaning, not all water is created equal. Regular tap water might look clean, but it contains dissolved minerals, salts, and impurities that can leave stubborn water spots and streaks. This is why our team uses Reverse Osmosis Deionized (RODI) pure water window cleaning technology — the most effective, eco-friendly, and professional method to achieve spotless, crystal-clear windows every time.
What is RODI Pure Water?
RODI water is water that has gone through a multi-stage purification process designed specifically for streak-free window cleaning:
- Sediment Filtration – Removes dirt, rust, and larger particles from the water supply.
- Carbon Filtration – Strips away chlorine and organic contaminants that can damage glass and frames.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filtration – Forces water through a semi-permeable membrane, filtering out up to 99% of dissolved solids.
- Deionization (DI) – Uses ion exchange resin to remove the last traces of minerals, producing ultra-pure water with a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) reading of 0 ppm.
The result? Ultra-pure water that leaves windows, glass, and frames sparkling clean with no spots or streaks.
Why Use Pure Water for Window Cleaning?
RODI pure water isn’t just clean — it’s chemically pure. It naturally attracts dirt and lifts it from glass surfaces without the need for soap or harsh chemicals. Using a water-fed pole window cleaning system, our technicians can:
- Clean windows and frames together, removing dust, salt spray, bird droppings, and grime.
- Avoid chemical detergents, making it an eco-friendly choice for homes and businesses.
- Deliver streak-free results, as pure water dries naturally without residue.
Benefits of Reverse Osmosis Deionized Pure Water Window Cleaning
✅ Streak-Free Finish – No mineral spots, streaks, or water marks.
✅ Eco-Friendly Window Cleaning – 100% chemical-free cleaning process.
✅ Safe Window Cleaning Method – Windows are cleaned from the ground using long-reach water-fed poles, reducing ladder risks.
✅ Long-Lasting Results – No soapy residue, so glass stays cleaner for longer.
Where RODI Pure Water Window Cleaning Works Best
Our pure water window cleaning service is ideal for:
- Residential window cleaning
- Commercial window cleaning
- School, hospital, and government building window cleaning
- High-rise and hard-to-reach glass cleaning
- Solar panel cleaning and skylight cleaning
This system is safe for all types of windows, including modern double glazing, frameless glass, and delicate powder-coated frames.
Why Choose Us for Your Pure Water Window Cleaning
We have invested in professional-grade RODI purification systems to give our customers the best results every time. Our skilled technicians are fully trained, insured, and committed to providing a perfect streak-free finish on every job.
If you want flawless, spotless windows without streaks, spots, or harmful chemicals, our reverse osmosis deionized pure water window cleaning service is the ultimate solution.
Book your RODI pure water window cleaning today!
📞 Call us now for a free quote and experience the difference of professional pure water window cleaning.
office@proserveexteriorcleaning.com
Have a great day Perth!