Have you ever stared at those dark streaks on your roof or the grime clinging to your siding and wondered how to get rid of it without causing damage? That’s exactly what soft washing is for.
Soft washing is a gentle yet powerful cleaning method that uses low-pressure water (under 500 PSI) and a mix of specialized cleaning solutions to safely clean delicate surfaces.
Unlike pressure or power washing, which blasts everything with high pressure, soft washing cleans surfaces safely and keeps them looking fresh for longer.
How Does Soft Washing Work?
Soft washing might sound simple, but there’s a bit of science to it. Here’s how it works:
Apply the Cleaning Solution
A special mix of bleach (to disinfect), surfactants (to loosen dirt), and water (to dilute the solution) is sprayed onto the surface using low-pressure equipment, like a soft wash system or agricultural sprayer.
Let it Soak
The solution is left to sit for a while, breaking down dirt and killing algae, mold, and other organic matter all the way down to their roots.
Gentle Rinse
Once the solution has done its job, the surface is rinsed with low-pressure water, washing away the grime and leaving everything clean and refreshed.
Important: For roofs, the cleaning solution is left on to fully eliminate algae and fungi at the root. For siding, it’s rinsed off after breaking down dirt.
The secret to soft washing is the low pressure — typically no more than 500 PSI — making it safe for delicate surfaces like roof shingles, vinyl siding, and painted wood.
See Related: How to Pressure Wash a House With Vinyl Siding
Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing vs. Power Washing
Soft washing is perfect for surfaces that need a gentler touch, like stucco, shingles, and windows, while pressure and power washing are better suited for tougher jobs like patios and concrete driveways.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Soft washing uses low pressure and cleaning solutions (like bleach and surfactants) to gently clean delicate surfaces without damage.
- Pressure washing relies on high-pressure water to blast away dirt and debris. It’s more aggressive and works well for tougher surfaces.
- Power washing takes pressure washing a step further by adding hot water, making it effective for stubborn grease and grime that needs heat to break it down.
| Method | Pressure Level | Best For |
| Soft Washing | Below 500 PSI, with water and cleaning agents | • Roofs • Windows • Stucco • Aluminum • Painted wood • Siding made of vinyl, wood, or other delicate materials |
| Pressure Washing | 1,300 to 3,000 PSI | • Driveways (for regular cleaning) • Sidewalks (for regular cleaning) • Fences (for light cleaning) • Patios and decks (for regular cleaning) • Siding • Gutters |
| Power Washing | Above 3,000 PSI, with heated water | • Driveways (for removing grease and grime) • Sidewalks (for tougher stains and high-traffic areas) • Fences (for removing grime and stains) • Patios and decks (for removing grime and stains) |
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When You Should Soft Wash
Soft washing is best when cleaning fragile surfaces or tackling organic stains. Here are some ideal scenarios:
- For delicate surfaces: If you’re cleaning delicate surfaces like stucco, wood panels, roof shingles, vinyl siding, and window screens, soft washing is gentle enough to remove dirt without causing damage.
- For organic stains: If you want to target the root causes of stains, like bacteria and algae, soft washing prevents them from regrowing and keeps your surfaces cleaner for longer.
- For hard-to-reach spots: With soft washing, water can reach 50 feet high, making it possible for DIYers to safely clean roofs or solar panels without a ladder. But for taller houses or more complex areas, it’s better to hire a soft washing pro who can walk on the roof or get on a ladder, if needed, and get the job done safely.
- For seasonal cleaning: Spring is the best time for deep cleaning, including soft washing, as green growth is most visible, and temperatures above 45 F help cleaning agents work effectively.
Watch this video to see how soft washing can safely clean an asphalt roof:
FAQ
Yes, soft washing is safe and designed for delicate surfaces, using low pressure and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to remove dirt, algae, and mold without causing damage to your home or the environment.
However, since some cleaning solutions contain bleach, professionals take extra precautions — like pre-wetting plants and neutralizing runoff — to protect your landscaping.
Yes, soft washing is a great way to clean roofs, siding, windows, and even outdoor furniture without risking damage.
While it’s possible to do it yourself with the right equipment, hiring a soft washing pro ensures the right cleaning solutions and techniques are used for a safe, long-lasting clean. Plus, pros can handle tough-to-reach areas without the hassle.
Yes, soft washing is in fact the best way to clean a roof without damaging shingles. The gentle water pressure prevents wear and tear, while the cleaning solution kills algae and fungi at the root, keeping your roof cleaner for longer.
Soft washing prices can vary depending on your home’s size, the surfaces being cleaned, and how much dirt or buildup needs to be removed. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
• Basic service fees: Most companies have a minimum charge, usually between $100 and $300, just to cover setup and materials.
• Full house soft wash: Cleaning an entire home typically costs $300 to $850, depending on the size and condition of the exterior.
• Roof soft washing: Roofs can be trickier, so prices range from $300 to over $1,000, depending on the material and level of grime.
• Price by square foot: Some companies charge $0.25 to $0.50 per square foot, so for a 2,500-square-foot home, you could pay anywhere from $625 to $1,250.
While DIY soft washing is possible, hiring a pro means getting a deep, even clean without worrying about using the wrong chemicals or damaging delicate surfaces. Plus, it saves you time (and a lot of hassle) in the long run.
The Gentle Touch Your Home Needs
Soft washing is the gentle way to clean delicate surfaces like roofs, siding, and windows. Unlike pressure washing, which can damage these materials, soft washing uses low pressure and cleaning solutions to safely but effectively remove dirt, mold, algae, and grime.
It’s also perfect for cleaning higher areas, tackling stains at their root, and is a perfect option for outdoor spring cleaning. While DIY is possible, Home Gnome can connect you with a nearby soft washing pro to ensure the soft wash is done right — no mistakes, no damage.
Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled handymen and handywomen in seconds and leave the rest to us.
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Main Image Credit: ungvar / Adobe Stock Free / License
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