​​Soft Washing Explained: Why We Don't Pressure Wash Roofs or Siding
People use "soft washing" and "pressure washing" as if they mean the same thing. They don't, and using the wrong one can damage your home.
Soft washing vs. pressure washing
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How it works: Soft washing uses low pressure plus cleaning solutions that break down algae, mildew and organic growth. Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to blast off dirt and buildup.
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Best for: Soft washing suits asphalt shingle roofs, vinyl siding, stucco, painted surfaces, soffits and trim. Pressure washing suits concrete driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks and hard masonry.
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Why: Soft washing treats the growth at the source without forcing water where it shouldn't go. Hard surfaces can handle pressure, and it gets ground-in grime out.
Why we never put high pressure on a roof or siding
High pressure can strip the protective granules off shingles, crack or etch surfaces, and push water up under shingles and behind siding. Soft washing cleans gently and treats the algae itself, not just the surface, so results usually last longer than a quick rinse.
Why Georgia homes need it
Georgia's warm, humid weather is ideal for algae and mildew. The black streaks on so many roofs around Mableton are usually a roof algae called Gloeocapsa magma, which does best on shaded, north-facing slopes. The same humidity leaves green streaks on siding, especially on walls under trees.
Soft wash services
House soft wash: from $249. Removes algae, mildew, dirt and organic buildup from vinyl siding, brick, stucco, painted surfaces, soffits, fascia and trim. We protect your plants and control runoff throughout.
Roof soft wash: from $399. Removes black streaks, algae, moss and mildew from asphalt shingles with low pressure, never a pressure washer.
Prefer an exact number? Your free quote is based on your home's size and how much buildup there is.
Where we still use pressure
Concrete is tough. For driveway cleaning we use surface cleaners and controlled pressure for an even, streak-free finish. We also offer roof rejuvenation, gutter cleaning, deck cleaning and commercial pressure washing.
FAQs
Will soft washing damage my siding?
No. Soft washing uses low pressure with cleaning solutions, so it removes buildup from siding, stucco and painted surfaces without harming them.
Is pressure washing safe for a roof?
No. High pressure can strip shingle granules and force water under shingles. We only use low-pressure soft washing on roofs.
Do you protect my plants?
Yes. Protecting your landscaping is part of every job. We take care to protect plants and control runoff.
How long do soft wash results last?
Because soft washing treats the algae instead of just rinsing it, results usually last much longer. On roofs it's often a few years before streaks come back, depending on shade and surroundings.
Not sure which method your home needs? Send us a few photos and we'll tell you, along with a free quote. Call or text (404) 202-5439