Soft washing has become the go-to cleaning method for homeowners who value gentleness without compromising on results. Whether you’re a DIYer or someone looking to hire professionals, understanding how to soft wash a house can help protect your home’s exterior while maintaining its beauty.
Unlike traditional pressure washing, soft washing combines low-pressure water with specialized cleaning solutions to remove dirt, grime, algae, mold, and more. It’s effective, eco-friendly, and safe for even the most delicate surfaces. Want to know how to do it right? You’re in the perfect place.
Soft washing is a cleaning technique that uses a low-pressure spray (100-200 PSI) combined with biodegradable cleaning agents to eliminate dirt and organic growth from exterior surfaces. This method is ideal for delicate materials, such as painted siding, shingles, and windows, that can be damaged by the high pressures of traditional pressure washing.
What sets soft washing apart is its ability to target biological growth—like algae, mold, and mildew—at its source. The cleaning solution penetrates deep into porous surfaces, killing spores and preventing regrowth, ensuring a long-lasting clean.
This method is highly effective for a variety of surfaces, such as roofs, siding, fences, and driveways.
Pressure washing uses powerful, high-pressure water (up to 3,000 PSI) to blast away dirt and grime. While this works well for hard, durable surfaces like concrete patios or brick, it can cause significant damage to softer materials.
Soft washing, on the other hand, uses low-pressure water coupled with cleaning agents, making it safer for fragile surfaces like shingles, wood siding, and vinyl.
Pressure washing often just removes the surface layer of dirt and algae, leaving spores behind that quickly regrow. Soft washing eliminates growth at its source, giving your home a deeper, longer-lasting clean.
Picture this scenario: You pressure wash your roof, only to find unpleasant black streaks reappearing in a few weeks. Soft washing prevents this by neutralizing what’s causing the discoloration, keeping your home cleaner for longer.
Before you start soft washing, gather the right tools and materials to ensure both effectiveness and safety.
A basic soft wash solution typically includes:
Pro tip: Choose biodegradable and non-toxic chemicals to protect plants and animals on your property.
Before you start, take some time to prepare the work area. Remove outdoor furniture, cover nearby plants and shrubs with tarps, and close all windows to prevent water from seeping inside.
Safety is key. Wear gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from splashing chemicals.
Carefully mix your cleaning solution in the tank, following the recommended ratios. Apply the solution evenly, starting at the top of the house and working your way down to avoid streaks. Make sure every spot is well-saturated, and allow the solution to sit for 5-10 minutes. This dwell time helps break down dirt and grime effectively.
Once the solution has had time to work, rinse the surface thoroughly with a low-pressure spray. Rinse from top to bottom for an even, streak-free finish. Pay extra attention to areas with heavy staining, and ensure all traces of the cleaning solution are removed.
After rinsing, take a closer look at the cleaned surfaces. If any dirt or algae remains, reapply the solution and repeat the process until the stains are completely gone.
When you’re done, don’t forget to clean your soft wash system thoroughly. Rinse out any leftover solution, and store your equipment in a safe, dry place. Proper maintenance ensures your tools will be ready to go for your next project.
While soft washing might seem straightforward, achieving professional-grade results takes experience and expertise. That’s where we come in.
At Window Hero, we’ve spent years perfecting the art of soft washing. Our team knows how to handle even the most delicate surfaces with care, ensuring your home looks its absolute best.
We tailor our soft wash solutions to match the unique needs of your property, whether it’s a shingle roof, vinyl siding, or painted wood.
We take pride in using biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning agents that are safe for the environment—and for your home. Plus, when you hire us, you don’t have to worry about gathering equipment, mixing chemicals, or doing the hard work yourself. We handle everything with efficiency and care.
Soft washing is a gentle yet highly effective way to clean your home. It’s perfect for maintaining your exterior, extending the life of delicate materials, and ensuring a pristine finish that lasts.
If your home needs a refresh, don’t risk damage with high-pressure cleaning methods. Trust the experts at Window Hero to provide a safe, thorough, and eco-friendly clean.