FAQ
1. What is the difference between soft washing and pressure washing?
Pressure washing relies on highly pressurized water to blast away dirt, which can easily damage delicate surfaces and force water behind siding. Soft washing uses a low-pressure delivery system combined with specialized, custom-blended cleaning solutions to safely kill algae, mildew, and bacteria at the root without the destructive force.
2. Is soft washing safe for my home’s exterior?
Yes. Soft washing is the safest and most recommended method for cleaning delicate surfaces like vinyl siding, stucco, Hardie board, and painted wood. The low-pressure application prevents water intrusion, warped siding, and stripped paint.
3. Will the cleaning solutions harm my plants or pets?
We take extensive precautions to protect your property’s landscaping. We thoroughly pre-wet all surrounding plants before cleaning and rinse them completely afterward to neutralize any runoff. Once our solutions are rinsed and the area is dry, it is completely safe for both children and pets.
4. Can you remove the dark black streaks from my roof?
Absolutely. Those black streaks are actually a destructive type of algae called Gloeocapsa magma that feeds on the limestone in your shingles. Our soft wash roof cleaning process eliminates the algae completely without dislodging the protective granules on your shingles, instantly restoring your roof’s appearance.
5. How often should I have my house soft washed?
We generally recommend having your home’s exterior soft washed every one to two years. However, homes that are heavily shaded by trees or located in environments with high humidity may require more frequent cleaning to keep organic growth at bay.
6. Do you still use traditional pressure washing for anything?
Yes. While soft washing is necessary for siding and roofs, traditional high-pressure washing is highly effective for flat, durable surfaces. We use specialized surface cleaners with appropriate pressure to lift deep-set dirt, grease, and stains from concrete driveways, sidewalks, and durable patios.
7. How long does the cleaning process take, and do I need to be home?
Most standard residential exterior cleanings take between two to four hours, depending on the size of the property and the extent of the buildup. You do not need to be home while we work, provided we have access to an exterior water spigot and all doors and windows are securely closed.
8. Do I need to do anything to prepare my home before you arrive?
Please ensure all windows and doors are tightly shut and locked. We also ask that you clear driveways and patios of vehicles, potted plants, and easily movable furniture, and ensure pets are kept indoors during the cleaning process.
9. Can you remove rust or oil stains from my driveway?
Yes, but these require specialized treatments beyond standard surface cleaning. We use specific chemical degreasers for oil and rust-removal agents to lift these stubborn stains from concrete. While we can significantly lighten and often completely remove them, some older, deep-set stains may be permanently etched into the concrete.
10. Will soft washing clean my windows?
Our soft wash process will remove dirt, algae, and grime from the exterior glass and window frames. Our streak-free formula allows us to leave a spotless shine on your windows.
11. Do you clean the inside or outside of gutters?
Both! We can remove leaves and debris from the inside of your gutters to ensure proper water flow. We also use specialized solutions to treat the outside of the gutters to remove “tiger stripes”—the dark, vertical oxidation stains that standard washing cannot remove.
12. Is soft washing safe for brick and masonry?
Yes. High pressure can easily blast away the mortar between bricks and cause spalling (flaking) on the brick face. Our soft wash method utilizes the right chemistry to lift biological growth and dirt without degrading the structural integrity of your masonry.
13. Do you clean wood fences and decks?
Yes. We use tailored, low-pressure applications to safely clean wood surfaces. We apply solutions that lift grime and kill organic growth without scoring, splintering, or raising the wood grain the way high-pressure water often does.
14. Why shouldn’t I just rent a pressure washer and do it myself?
Without the right training and chemical knowledge, DIY pressure washing frequently leads to property damage, such as stripped paint, etched concrete, and water forced behind siding. Furthermore, using pressure instead of chemistry only removes the surface layer of algae, meaning the green and black stains will return much faster.
15. What happens if it rains on the day of my scheduled cleaning?
Because our cleaning process inherently involves water, a light rain will not interfere with our work. However, if there are heavy downpours, high winds, or lightning, we will contact you to reschedule the appointment for the safety of our team and to ensure the best possible results.
16. Will your cleaning solutions fade my vinyl siding?
No. We use scientifically formulated, properly diluted solutions that are specifically designed to be safe for exterior materials. They target organic growth and dirt without bleaching or fading the color of your vinyl or painted surfaces.
17. Can soft washing help with allergies?
Yes! By completely removing mold, mildew, pollen, and dust from the exterior of your home, we help reduce the amount of airborne allergens that can make their way inside, creating a healthier living environment for you and your family.
18. Are you fully insured?
Yes, we carry comprehensive commercial liability insurance. While our chemistry-based soft wash methods are specifically designed to minimize the risk of property damage, we believe in providing our clients with complete peace of mind.
19. What is the white, powdery substance on my brick, and can you remove it?
That substance is called efflorescence. It occurs when moisture draws natural salts out of the masonry to the surface. We use specific, safely applied chemical cleaners to dissolve and remove efflorescence without damaging the brick or mortar.
20. Does having my home’s exterior cleaned increase its value?
Absolutely. Regular exterior cleaning drastically improves curb appeal and protects the structural integrity of your siding, roof, and concrete. It is one of the most cost-effective ways to maintain and even boost your property’s market value.
