What is Soft Washing? Here’s Why It’s the Safest Way to Clean Your Home
When people search for home exterior cleaning services, “pressure wash” or “power wash” are often the go-to terms. While these are widely recognized, there’s a lesser-known but equally important method called soft washing that you should be aware of—especially when it comes to cleaning delicate surfaces.
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing involves applying a cleaning solution made up of water, sodium hypochlorite (the active ingredient in bleach), and a surfactant (a type of soap) to surfaces at low pressure—usually between 60 and 300 PSI. This gentle pressure allows the solution to dwell on the surface, giving the sodium hypochlorite time to kill organic growth like algae, mold, and mildew, as well as their food sources. This not only leaves surfaces spotless but also sanitizes and disinfects them for a longer-lasting clean than simply blasting away dirt with high-pressure water.
Why Soft Washing is Better for Your Home’s Exterior
While pressure washing works wonders on hard surfaces like brick or concrete, softer materials like wood, vinyl siding, and asphalt roofs are far too fragile to withstand high-pressure cleaning. Using high pressure on these surfaces can lead to serious damage—stripping paint, warping siding, or even forcing water underneath surfaces, creating a breeding ground for mold.
Soft washing is the recommended method for cleaning home siding, roofs, and other delicate areas. It’s endorsed by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association and won’t void home siding warranties, making it a safe, effective option for maintaining your home’s exterior.
Have You Heard of Soft Washing?
Whether you’re familiar with soft washing or this is the first time you’ve heard of it, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you know what goes into a soft wash treatment? Leave a comment below with any questions or insights.
Need more information or looking for professional soft washing services? Give us a call at (253) 655-7474 and let us know how we can help with your project!
