Welcome, fellow hustlers! In today's post, we're diving into a lucrative service that many pressure washers overlook: oxidation removal. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Ray Natario, owner of Clean Home Power Washing, who shared some game-changing tips on how to identify, sell, and remove oxidation safely. If you're in the pressure washing business, this is a fantastic upsell that could earn you up to $400 per hour!
Identifying Oxidation: What to Look For
The first step in oxidation removal is identifying the issue. When walking a property, always check the sunny side of the house, as UV exposure is the main culprit. Look for a chalky residue on siding. Ray recommends doing the rub test—simply rub your hand on the siding and if you see a white, chalky residue, you've found oxidation.
Pro Tip: Rain can make it tricky to spot oxidation, but check under the soffits or perform the rub test to be sure. Don't let a wet house hide oxidation and cost you free labor later!
Safe Removal Practices
Once oxidation is identified, never use high pressure on oxidized siding, as this can cause penciling—leaving visible marks on the surface. When applying soap or rinsing, use low pressure to avoid damaging the siding.
If you want an easy, brushless solution, I highly recommend Southeast Softwash's Ox-Knox Brushless Oxidation Remover. It’s perfect for efficiently removing oxidation without needing excessive scrubbing or high-pressure washing, ensuring you provide the best results for your clients while keeping labor time down.
Is Oxidation Removal an Upsell?
Absolutely! Ray emphasizes that oxidation removal should always be an upsell to a basic house wash. One of the best ways to sell this service is by educating your customer. Show them the chalky residue with the rub test, explain what causes oxidation (UV exposure, acid rain, or improper washing techniques), and let them know you have the solution.
Quoting Oxidation Removal Services
Pricing for oxidation removal can vary, but Ray suggests a starting rate of $200 per side for a 2,500 sq. ft. home. Pricing should always be based on time, materials, and complexity, so it's crucial to evaluate each job individually.
Steps for Oxidation Removal
Here’s a quick rundown of Ray's process:
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Wet down the surface to cool it but avoid waterlogging.
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Mix your detergent according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Apply the solution from the bottom up and let it dwell for about five minutes.
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Reapply the solution if needed and allow it to dwell again.
- Use a low-pressure rinse to carefully remove the oxidation.
Safety Precautions
Always protect vegetation and other surfaces around the house. Tape off areas like door handles and keyholes to prevent damage from caustic detergents. Ensure the house is sealed up tight to prevent any cleaning solutions from leaking indoors.
Wrap-Up: Oxidation removal is a high-value service that every pressure washer should consider adding to their list. Not only does it increase your profits, but it also enhances the quality of your service. Be sure to check out Southeast Softwash’s Ox-Knox Brushless Oxidation Remover for an easy, effective solution.
As always, hustle hard and get that money, baby!
