Soft Wash

Soft wash is a type of cleaning process that can safely remove stains, mildew, and algae from outdoor surfaces by using a low-pressure washing technique with a mixture of biocides or sodium hypochlorite, surfactants, and water. While the procedures, equipment, pressure, and chemicals used in soft washing and pressure washing appear to be the same, the application is very different. Pressure washing uses a much higher water pressure than soft wash. The process of soft washing uses a biodegradable sanitizing cleaning solution to kill mold, mildew, bacteria, fungus, and moss. This can be useful for cleaning roofs, solar panels, some types of siding and windows that are risky to clean with full pressure washing due to the damage it might cause.

The Benefits of Soft Wash

Soft wash was developed for the purpose of removing algae, which can accumulate on various parts of a property (including roofs and patios). It usually produces a black stain that’s very noticeable. It also thrives in wet and damp conditions, where it can spread throughout your roof and other areas of your home. The buildup of moss and algae can shorten your roof’s lifespan by up to 20 years, and soft wash is the only way to get rid of it without causing damage.

Taking a gentler approach, on certain surfaces of your home or business will prevent damage that can compromise the surface and create more problems.  Pressure washing simply washes the surface, so it will leave the root systems that have formed in and around the surface. Soft wash will kill any moss, fungus, and bacteria in a safe manner while also removing dirt and grime and will restore it to its natural color without damaging the materials.

The Most Effective Soft Wash Method

The first thing you need to do is prepare the surrounding area by protecting plants or grass. The soft wash will then have to be prepared. Once the solution is ready, pour it into a soft wash sprayer and use it to clean the surface. Water will flow through a pump and hose at low pressure, so the cleaning solution can run through the hose by the pump. Point the hose at the cleaning surface as the water mixture is sprayed out.

A soft wash system will use a larger proportion of cleaning chemicals and a higher volume of water compared to pressure washing, but the application is soft and uses less pressure than a garden hose. The solution is left on the surface, so it can kill everything down to the roots, and in some cases, it’s rinsed off after some time has passed.

The Chemicals Used in Soft Wash

For the soft wash to be most effective, the solution needs to include the following ingredients:

• Sodium Hypochlorite — This will kill mildew spores, algae, moss, and any other plants or fungi that have gotten into your roof or any other surface. It will also penetrate and kill any root systems, which will keep the surface from getting damaged and will prevent regrowth.
• Water — The sodium hypochlorite is diluted in water.

Soft wash also uses a surfactant, which helps with the cleaning by loosening, absorbing, and transporting dirt and other contaminants. Because of its chemical nature, it will go between the surface and the material clinging to it (such as soil, plants, and fungi) and will push it apart. It sticks to the undesired matter and lifts it away in a process known as “roll-up.”

It works in the same way as dish soap when it removes food residue from a plate after a meal. It makes it easier for the water to wash away any undesired residue from the surface. It will also prevent any excessive run-off, so the solution can stay on the surface for a longer period. This will improve the solution’s effectiveness and will remove the surface tension of the water.

The recipes and proportions for a soft wash solution can vary according to the size and type of material you need to wash. If you’re planning to clean your roof, the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer’s Association suggests that the most effective way to clean algae and moss from a roof is with a 50:50 mix of laundry-strength liquid chlorine bleach and water without any surfactant.

If you want to find a quality soft wash business in Corpus Christi, be sure to get in touch with Slime Busters. We have a team of experienced professionals who would be happy to speak with you about your specific needs.