Softwashing for Stucco, Siding and Painted Surfaces

How softwashing differs from pressure washing

Pressure washing relies on force to blast dirt off a surface. Softwashing relies on cleaning solutions to break down dirt, mildew and algae, then rinses them away at roughly the pressure of a garden hose. That difference matters on stucco, which can be pitted or chipped by high pressure, and on wood siding, where a strong stream can raise the grain, strip paint and push water behind the boards. Softwashing also reaches into the texture of stucco more evenly than a narrow high-pressure stream, which tends to clean in visible lines. The solution is given time to work before rinsing, so the chemistry does the cleaning rather than the nozzle.

Smoke residue and North Bay exteriors

During fire season, smoke and fine ash settle on homes across Solano, Napa and Sonoma counties, leaving a gray film that dulls paint and stucco. That residue is slightly oily and does not always rinse away with plain water. Softwashing with an appropriate cleaner lifts it from the texture of stucco and the grooves of siding without grinding it in. It is a sensible first step whether you are refreshing the look of the house or preparing to repaint, since paint applied over soot does not bond properly. Shaded north-facing walls also tend to grow mildew and algae, which the same process removes.

Protecting plants and surroundings

Cleaning solutions work because they are strong, so the area around the house is protected before work starts. Planting beds and shrubs near the walls are wetted down beforehand and rinsed afterward, which dilutes any overspray, and delicate plants can be covered. Windows, doors and outdoor lights are checked so water is not forced into gaps, and outlets and fixtures are covered where needed. Patio furniture and potted plants are moved away from the walls. When the wash is complete, the house is rinsed thoroughly and the surroundings are rinsed again, so nothing is left behind on the surfaces or in the garden.