Low-Pressure Cleaning Method
Safe for Delicate Exterior Surfaces
Free Estimates
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is an exterior cleaning method that combines specialized cleaning solutions with a low-pressure water rinse to remove organic growth
from surfaces. The cleaning solution is applied first and left to break down algae, mold, mildew, lichen, and other biological buildup, and only then is
the surface rinsed clean. This approach is commonly used on surfaces that require a more careful cleaning method, including house siding, roofing materials, fences, and decks.
Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing
Both methods clean exterior surfaces, but they’re built for different jobs. Pressure washing depends on high-pressure water alone to strip dirt, mud, and debris from durable materials. Soft washing relies mainly on the cleaning solution to do the work, using only a low-pressure rinse to clear away what’s been broken down.
Soft washing works best on delicate exterior surfaces, where too much pressure could cause damage. Pressure washing is better suited to hard surfaces like concrete, brick, and stone, which can handle higher water pressure. The right method comes down to the material and the type of buildup being removed.
When Is Soft Washing Recommended?
Roofs
Soft washing is commonly used on residential roofs to remove algae, moss, and other organic buildup, since high pressure can dislodge the protective granules on asphalt shingles.
Learn more about Roof Cleaning →
House Siding
Many siding materials, including vinyl and painted wood, can crack, chip, or trap moisture if cleaned with too much pressure, so a low-pressure method removes the organic growth without that risk.
Learn more about House Washing →
Our Soft Washing Process
Surface Inspection
We begin by inspecting the surface to identify the material, the type of organic buildup present, and any areas that require additional attention before cleaning.
Property Preparation
Nearby plants, landscaping, and surrounding areas are prepared and protected so the cleaning process can be carried out safely.
Cleaning Solution Application
A professional cleaning solution is applied evenly across the surface, allowing it to break down algae, mold, mildew, and other organic growth before rinsing.
Low-Pressure Rinse
The surface is gently rinsed with low-pressure water to remove the loosened buildup, leaving it clean without any risk to the material underneath.
What’s Used to Soft Wash a House?
A chlorine-based cleaning solution mixed with a surfactant is the industry standard, and it’s what we use. The surfactant is what makes the difference. On its own, the solution would just run off a vertical surface like siding before it has time to work. The surfactant helps it cling long enough to break down algae and mildew at the source, which is why soft washing gets results that a plain water rinse can’t.
Soft Washing Pricing
$300–$1,200
Soft washing pricing in Lexington typically runs $300–$1,200, depending on which surface is being cleaned. House washing usually starts around $300–$500, while roof cleaning generally ranges from $600–$1,200. Since soft washing is a cleaning method rather than a single service, fences and decks are priced separately based on their size, condition, and accessibility. After assessing your property, we’ll provide a clear estimate based on the specific work required, with no hidden charges.
Is Soft Washing Worth the Money?
Yes. Soft washing typically costs about the same as pressure washing, but the results tend to last longer. Pressure washing removes buildup
mainly through water force, while soft washing’s cleaning solution breaks down algae and mildew at the source rather than just knocking it off
the surface. That’s part of why a soft-washed surface generally stays cleaner longer than one that’s only been rinsed with pressure. For
surfaces like siding and roofing, where the wrong method can also cause damage, it’s the safer choice as well as the more effective one.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the questions homeowners and business owners ask before
scheduling soft washing services in Lexington.
Related Exterior Cleaning Services
Soft washing is the cleaning method behind many of our residential exterior cleaning services. If you’re looking for a solution tailored to a specific surface, explore the related services below for more detailed information.