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The most common chemical used in professional exterior cleaning is sodium hypochlorite (SH), the active ingredient in household bleach. When properly diluted and applied, it effectively kills mold, mildew, and algae.

Environmental Considerations

When used responsibly, sodium hypochlorite breaks down into salt and water when exposed to sunlight and organic matter. However, concentration matters. Professional-grade solutions are much stronger than household bleach and require proper handling.

Our Approach

We use professional-grade cleaning solutions as our standard approach because they deliver the most effective, longest-lasting results. However, we offer eco-friendly alternatives when requested or when working near sensitive areas like fish ponds, vegetable gardens, or delicate landscaping.

It's important to understand that eco-friendly solutions typically don't work as well or last as long. If maximum effectiveness is your priority, professional-grade products deliver better results. If environmental impact is your primary concern, we're happy to use gentler alternatives—we just want you to have realistic expectations about the outcome.

What is Soft Washing?

Soft washing uses low pressure (similar to a garden hose) combined with specialized cleaning solutions to remove organic growth, dirt, and stains. The chemical does the work, not the pressure.

What is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing uses high-pressure water (typically 2,000-4,000 PSI) to physically blast away dirt, grime, and stains. It's mechanical cleaning rather than chemical.

When to Use Each Method

Soft washing is best for: House siding, roofs, painted surfaces, wood, stucco—anything that could be damaged by high pressure.

Pressure washing is best for: Concrete driveways, walkways, pavers, aggregate surfaces—durable materials that need mechanical cleaning.

Why This Matters

Using high pressure on the wrong surface can cause serious damage: stripping paint, forcing water behind siding, dislodging roof granules, or splintering wood. Many homeowners have experienced this from inexperienced operators who use too much pressure everywhere.

We assess each surface and use the appropriate method. Your home's exterior isn't one-size-fits-all, and neither is our approach.

Essential Questions

Are you licensed and insured?
This isn't optional. If they're not insured and something gets damaged—or worse, someone gets injured—you could be held liable. Always verify insurance before work begins.

What method will you use on my specific surfaces?
If they say "pressure washing" for everything, that's a red flag. Different surfaces need different approaches. They should explain their method for your siding, roof, driveway, etc.

What chemicals do you use and why?
They should be able to explain what products they're using and why. If they can't or won't tell you, walk away.

What's included in the price?
Does it include windows? Gutters? Pre-treatment? Post-treatment? Make sure you understand exactly what you're paying for.

Do you guarantee your work?
What happens if you're not satisfied? What if something was missed? A company that stands behind their work will have clear answers.

Warning Signs

• No insurance or "my buddy's insurance covers me"
• Extremely low prices (they're cutting corners somewhere)
• Cash-only, no written estimate
• Unwilling to explain their process
• High-pressure sales tactics or today-only pricing

What Good Companies Do

• Provide proof of insurance without hesitation
• Give detailed written estimates
• Explain their process and why they do things certain ways
• Answer questions patiently
• Offer guarantees or follow-up policies
• Have verifiable reviews or references

It Depends on Your Environment

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. The Pacific Northwest climate—high rainfall, heavy tree canopy, mild temperatures—creates ideal conditions for organic growth. Homes here need cleaning more frequently than drier climates.

General Guidelines

House Washing: Every 1-2 years
More frequently if you have heavy tree cover, north-facing walls, or visible mold and algae growth. Less frequently if your home gets full sun and little shade.

Roof Washing: Every 2-3 years
When you start seeing black streaks (algae) or moss growth, it's time. Don't wait until it's severe—prevention is easier and cheaper than remediation.

Driveway/Walkways: Every 1-2 years
More frequently if you have moss or algae creating slippery conditions. Safety should drive the schedule here.

Cost vs. Benefit

Regular maintenance costs less than emergency intervention. Removing light buildup is faster and uses less chemical than removing years of accumulated growth. Plus, you're protecting your investment—organic growth can damage siding and roofing over time.

Signs It's Time

• Visible green, black, or brown streaks on siding or roof
• Slippery walkways or driveways
• Discoloration that won't rinse off with a hose
• Moss or lichen growth
• Your home looks noticeably dirty from the street