Vancouver homes face some of the toughest exterior conditions in Canada: near-constant rainfall, dense coastal humidity, mature tree canopy, and long stretches of low winter sunlight. Together, these factors accelerate algae, moss, mildew, and grime on siding, roofs, walkways, and windows.

Most homeowners are unsure how often each part of the property should be cleaned. The answer comes down to three things: Vancouver’s climate, the materials on your home, and how much shade and vegetation surrounds it.

This guide gives you a practical, climate-based cleaning schedule tailored to Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Why Vancouver Homes Need More Frequent Exterior Cleaning

Vancouver has a temperate oceanic climate, with mild temperatures but long rainy seasons and frequent overcast skies. (Wikipedia) Local analyses note that the city sees well over 150 rainy days per year, making surfaces damp for much of the year. (604 Pressure Washing) Prolonged moisture is exactly what moss, algae, and mildew need to thrive.

Key environmental drivers:

• High rainfall and humidity keep siding, roofs, and concrete damp.
• Tree cover (especially on the North Shore) adds needles, shade, and organic debris.
• Coastal air and urban pollution leave films and particulates on glass and walls.

For a deeper dive into how this climate fuels moss and algae, you can read WashTech’s dedicated guide on why moss and algae grow on Vancouver roofs.

Recommended Cleaning Frequency for Each Exterior Surface

These timelines assume a typical Vancouver or North Shore home exposed to rain, shade, and nearby trees.

1. House Siding: Every 12–18 Months

Vinyl, Hardie, stucco, and wood siding all collect algae and grime fastest on the north and west sides of the home. Left too long, buildup traps moisture and can shorten paint or coating lifespan.

• Recommended frequency: every 12–18 months
• Best method: soft washing (low pressure + detergents)
• Related service: house washing

For older homes or delicate surfaces, soft washing is especially important. WashTech explains this in more depth in why Vancouver homes need soft washing.

2. Gutters: 1–2 Times Per Year

In neighbourhoods like Lynn Valley, Edgemont, and Deep Cove, conifer needles and leaves can fill gutters in a single season. Blocked gutters cause overflow, fascia rot, and foundation issues.

• Recommended frequency: once per year minimum; twice per year for treed lots
• Best method: manual debris removal + downspout flushing
• Related service: gutter cleaning

For a more detailed breakdown geared to nearby Burnaby, see the WashTech blog on professional gutter cleaning services in Burnaby.

3. Windows: 2–4 Times Per Year

Rain does not “wash” windows; it usually leaves mineral spots and streaks when combined with pollution and salt in the air. Coastal cities like Vancouver see more of this effect, particularly near the water. (Weather Atlas)

• Recommended frequency:
  • 2× per year for most detached homes
  • 3–4× per year for view homes, condos, or commercial storefronts
• Best method: pure-water, water-fed pole systems for exterior glass
• Related service: window cleaning

For a deeper look at methods, see WashTech’s complete guide to professional window cleaning in Vancouver.

4. Driveways, Sidewalks & Concrete: Every 12 Months

Shaded or north-facing concrete becomes slick with algae and moss, which is both unsightly and a slip hazard. Oils, vehicle drips, and urban grime also build up over time.

• Recommended frequency: every 12 months
• Best method: professional pressure washing using the right tips and pressures for each surface

5. Decks & Patios: Every 12 Months

Wood and composite decks deteriorate faster when algae and mildew are left to eat into the surface. Regular cleaning prevents rot, staining, and slipperiness.

• Recommended frequency: every 12 months
• Best method: low-pressure washing + appropriate detergents (varies for wood vs composite)

You can see how deck and hardscape cleaning fits into a broader plan in WashTech’s seasonal exterior maintenance checklist for Vancouver & Lower Mainland homes.

6. Roofs: Every 2–5 Years

Local roofing experts consistently point out that Vancouver’s wet, mild climate is “paradise for moss,” and that unchecked moss traps moisture against shingles and accelerates deterioration. (paragonroofingbc.ca)

Approximate timelines:

• North Vancouver / heavily treed lots: every 2–3 years
• Vancouver West Side / UBC: every 3–4 years
• Burnaby / East Van: every 3–5 years depending on tree cover
• Best method: soft washing (no high pressure on shingles)

For more on the science and risks, see WashTech’s article why moss and algae grow on Vancouver roofs.

Warning Signs You’re Overdue for Exterior Cleaning

Regardless of the calendar, you should book cleaning if you notice:

• Green or black algae streaks on siding
• Moss clumps on roof edges or in shaded roof valleys
• Slippery steps, patios, or walkways
• Persistent streaks or haze on windows after rain
• Gutters overflowing during storms
• Dark, patchy areas on the roof
• Spiderweb buildup around trims, soffits, and entryways

WashTech’s blog on 7 warning signs your Vancouver home exterior needs professional pressure washing goes deeper into these red flags.

How Frequency Changes by Neighbourhood

Because WashTech services the entire Lower Mainland, you see clear patterns region by region:

• North Vancouver & West Vancouver – Heavy tree canopy, steep lots, and shaded exposures mean more moss and debris. Homes here often need exterior cleaning solutions slightly more often than the average.
• Vancouver West Side / UBC – Coastal air and wind-blown salt cause more window spotting and film on siding.
• Burnaby – Tree-lined streets plus higher traffic corridors add both organic debris and airborne pollution.
• East Vancouver – Urban pollution and shade in dense neighbourhoods accelerate algae on siding and concrete.

DIY vs Professional Cleaning: When Each Makes Sense

DIY is usually safe for:

• Rinsing lightly soiled siding
• Cleaning ground-level windows
• Sweeping and rinsing small patios
• Light seasonal touch-ups

Professional cleaning is recommended for:

• Multi-storey homes and difficult access areas
• Roofs (to avoid shingle damage)
• Heavy staining or organic growth
• Slippery concrete and stairs
• Full-system gutter cleaning and downspout flushing
• Older or heritage homes where gentle methods matter
• Properties in municipalities with stricter wastewater bylaws (e.g., Burnaby and Metro Vancouver)

For homeowners weighing their options, WashTech’s blog on exterior cleaning vs painting costs in Vancouver helps quantify the cost differences over time.

Annual Exterior Cleaning Calendar for Vancouver Homes

You can align your cleaning schedule with both local rainfall patterns and Canadian home maintenance guidance, which recommend seasonal exterior checks to prevent moisture-related damage. (Climate Data Canada)

Spring (March–May)

• Full house washing
• Exterior window cleaning
• Deck and patio cleaning

Summer (June–August)

• Pressure washing of driveways and sidewalks
• Fence cleaning and sealing
• Visual roof inspection

Fall (September–November)

• Gutter cleaning
• Siding touch-ups in problem areas
• Window cleaning before winter storms

Winter (December–February)

• Clear drains and stairwells of debris
• Light rinsing of high-traffic walkways when temperatures allow
• Avoid pressure washing in freezing conditions to prevent surface and slip hazards

For a more detailed season-by-season plan, see WashTech’s seasonal exterior maintenance checklist for Vancouver & Lower Mainland homes.

Why Regular Cleaning Saves Money Long-Term

National housing and maintenance resources emphasise that ongoing, scheduled exterior maintenance helps homes last longer and reduces costly repairs. (Publications.gc.ca)

Regular exterior cleaning:

• Extends the life of siding and coatings
• Reduces the need for premature repainting
• Protects roof shingles from moss-related damage
• Prevents water damage from clogged gutters
• Reduces slip-and-fall risk on walkways and stairs

When you treat cleaning as part of your home’s annual maintenance plan, rather than an occasional emergency fix, you stay ahead of problems instead of reacting to them.

Key Takeaways

• Vancouver’s climate requires more frequent exterior cleaning than most Canadian regions due to high rainfall, humidity, tree canopy, and coastal conditions.
• House siding should be cleaned every 12–18 months, ideally using soft washing to prevent surface damage.
• Gutters need cleaning 1–2 times per year, especially in North Vancouver and heavily treed areas.
• Windows should be cleaned 2–4 times per year because rainwater mixes with salt and pollution, leaving residue.
• Driveways, walkways, and patios benefit from annual pressure washing to remove slippery algae and moss.
• Roofs require soft washing every 2–5 years, depending on shade and vegetation exposure.
• Neighbourhood conditions matter — the North Shore needs the most frequent cleaning, West Side properties need more window care, and East Vancouver sees more pollution buildup.
• A seasonal maintenance plan (spring, summer, fall, winter) prevents moisture damage and prolongs the lifespan of siding, roofing, concrete, and painted surfaces.
• Regular cleaning is a cost-saving strategy, reducing the need for repainting, repairs, and early material replacement.