Soft washing has become an increasingly popular cleaning method in Vancouver for maintaining building exteriors and outdoor living spaces. Our wet climate leads to buildup of moss, algae, and other organic growth that can stain or damage surfaces when left unchecked. Soft washing provides an effective cleaning solution that is also gentle on buildings.
The Basics of Soft Washing
Soft washing refers to the use of special low-pressure equipment that utilizes biodegradable cleaning solutions to lift dirt and grime from exterior surfaces. Soft wash systems use less than 700 PSI of water pressure, compared to 3000+ PSI used in pressure washing. The lower pressure allows soft washing to clean surfaces thoroughly without damaging materials or forcing water into cracks or crevices.
The cleaning solutions used are typically biodegradable mixes of surfactants, detergents, and sometimes bleach. They work to break down organic deposits and lift them from the surface along with dirt and grime. The solutions are applied using downstream injection systems that mix the chemicals into the low-pressure water stream during cleaning.
Soft washing is ideal for more delicate surfaces like wood, brick, stone, and vinyl siding that can be damaged by high-pressure blasting. It provides a deep clean without etching or eroding the material.
Benefits of Soft Washing in Vancouver
Soft washing is highly effective at removing the green algae, moss, lichens, and mold that readily accumulate on Vancouver buildings over fall and winter. The biodegradable solutions break down the organic material, lifting it off surfaces and leaving a clean, brightened finish.
Using soft washing methods can help preserve the integrity of building exteriors by removing grime and growth cleanly without grinding or scraping the surfaces. This is especially important in wet climates like Vancouver’s where constant moisture accelerates buildup on exteriors. Keeping surfaces clean avoids permanent staining or material degradation over time.
Soft washing solutions are also more environmentally friendly compared to some harsh chemicals used in other washing methods. Using biodegradable solutions is better for nearby plants and soil as well as helpful for meeting sustainability initiatives.
When to Use Soft Washing
Soft washing is great for maintenance cleaning any time of year, but especially effective in spring and fall in Vancouver when moss and mildew growth are at their peak. Cooler temperatures and plenty of moisture cause fast spread of buildup across siding, roofs, fences, decks and pavement.
Getting a jump on cleaning in early spring helps keep ahead of growth and avoid permanent staining over the darker winter months. Late fall is ideal for washing away stubborn buildup that accumulated over summer and early autumn.
Soft washing can be used on many exterior surfaces including wood, vinyl, painted/stained surfaces, brick, concrete and stone. Avoid using on extremely delicate or deteriorated surfaces that may require restoration first. Always test soft washing solutions on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure there is no damage to the material.
Soft Washing for Different Property Types
Residential
Soft washing provides excellent cleaning results for Vancouver homes and outdoor living areas. Home siding, roofs, decks and patios see a lot of buildup from wet weather and organic debris like pollen and leaf litter. Keeping these surfaces cleaned with soft washing preserves curb appeal and avoids permanent damage. It also keeps patios and decks clear for enjoying outdoor living during Vancouver’s milder months.
Commercial
Commercial properties need regular cleaning to keep up appearances and prevent buildup-related deterioration. Storefronts, office buildings, hotels and industrial properties with large exterior surfaces see extensive grime accumulation in urban environments. Soft washing provides optimal cleaning for glass, painted/stained siding, brickwork, signage and other building exteriors.
Vancouver commercial property owners often use soft washing as part of maintenance packages 2-3 times per year. This frequent cleaning removes grime before it results in permanent staining or costly repairs later.
Historical
Many heritage buildings in Vancouver require specialized care when cleaning exteriors. Soft washing is the ideal cleaning process for delicate materials and architectural details found on historical properties. It allows deep cleaning and brightening of surfaces without abrasive damage to the original materials.
Experienced soft washing technicians can address cleaning challenges on detailed masonry, decorative woodwork, stained glass and other fragile features often found on Vancouver’s heritage buildings. Using the right methods preserves the integrity and restored appearance.
How to Choose a Soft Washing Service in Vancouver
Choosing the right soft washing company is key to getting safe, effective exterior cleaning. Here are some tips for selecting a qualified service provider:
- Look for experienced companies that specialize in building exterior cleaning using soft wash methods. They should thoroughly understand appropriate chemical mixes and protocols.
- Ask about training and certification to use soft washing equipment and chemicals. Proper procedures prevent chemical overuse or environmental contamination.
- Seek local references from past clients with similar properties. Reputable soft washers should easily provide Vancouver references.
- Review portfolios showing before-and-after work on projects comparable to yours. This demonstrates their experience with different materials and building types.
- Confirm they carry insurance to cover any potential property damage during soft washing.
Reputable soft washing companies provide exceptional cleaning results while protecting the integrity of Vancouver’s buildings. Take time to vet providers thoroughly before trusting them with your valuable property.
Soft Washing Tips for Homeowners
Homeowners can perform basic soft washing on small areas using moderate pressure from a standard garden hose and biodegradable cleaning solutions. When cleaning larger areas, it is best to engage professionals with the right soft washing equipment and expertise.
Here are some DIY soft washing tips:
- Use biodegradable detergent mixes designed specifically for soft washing exteriors. Do not use harsh chemicals like bleach that may damage surfaces.
- Test solutions on hidden areas first and rinse quickly to avoid damage.
- Use broad fan spray nozzles that distribute water evenly at low pressure. Avoid high pressure stream settings.
- Take care around fragile materials like wood and brick. Keep the spray moving to avoid saturation.
- Rinse surfaces thoroughly with clean water after washing to remove all residue.
- Allow surfaces to fully dry before evaluating results. Additional cleaning may be needed for stubborn grime.
Improper chemical use or technique can lead to permanent damage, so engage a professional soft wash company for any intricate, delicate or heavily soiled surfaces.
Best Soft Washing Companies in Vancouver
Here are five top-rated soft washing companies in Vancouver to consider for your next exterior cleaning project:
Superhero Property Maintenance
Locally esteemed company specializing in soft washing for both residential and commercial properties throughout Metro Vancouver. Celebrated for its eco-friendly practices and superior results in rejuvenating the exteriors of buildings, it’s a leading choice for soft washing in Vancouver.
Vancouver Soft Wash Pros
Veteran-owned company using latest soft wash equipment and techniques for sensitive building materials. Specializes in environmentally safe moss removal and mildew treatment.
Metro Vancouver Soft Washing
Trusted specialists in soft washing and gentle pressure cleaning for delicate surfaces. Experts in safety protocols and biodegradable solutions.
Coast Soft Washing
Experienced soft washing provider known for moss removal expertise and historic building restoration cleaning projects throughout Vancouver.
Soft Wash Vancouver
Female-owned company focused on the safest and most effective techniques for soft washing all types of building exteriors and outdoor living spaces.
Conclusion
Soft washing provides a gentle, non-destructive cleaning method ideal for the weather challenges in Vancouver. When performed properly by trained technicians, it clears away grime and buildup without damaging surfaces. This preserves the integrity of building exteriors and maintains aesthetic appeal.
With the right soft washing provider, commercial and residential clients can keep their properties looking pristine and prevent permanent staining or deterioration. Make sure to research and vet providers thoroughly to find the best soft washing company for your building’s exterior maintenance needs. Keeping up with regular scheduled cleaning will pay dividends for your building’s longevity and value.
