The Science of Soft Washing: Safe Ratios & Plant Protection
The Right Mix for Every Surface
We don’t believe in a "one size fits all" approach. Different surfaces require different chemistry to be both safe and effective.
Vinyl Siding (1-2% Mix): For standard residential home washes, we use a diluted solution between 1% and 2% sodium hypochlorite (SH). This low concentration is the "sweet spot"—strong enough to melt away algae and mold, but gentle enough to protect your siding's finish and prevent damage to delicate surfaces.
Roof Cleaning (Higher Mix): Roofs require a "hotter" mix because organic growth like lichen and moss roots deeper into shingles. We typically use a 4-6% mix for roofs to ensure we kill the growth at the source without using high pressure that could dislodge granules.
Concrete & Brick: For tougher surfaces like driveways, we use a medium concentration (around 3-4%) combined with hot water to break down heavy oils and deep-set grime.
Our "Plant-First" Safety Guarantee
The biggest question we get is: "Will this hurt my garden?" The answer is no, because we follow a strict Pre-Wet and Protect protocol.
Hydration is Armor: Before any cleaning solution touches your house, we thoroughly soak all surrounding plants, shrubs, and grass with fresh water. A well-hydrated plant's roots and leaves are full of water, meaning they won't absorb the diluted cleaning solution if any overspray occurs.
Continuous Rinsing: We keep a "ground man" on-site specifically to rinse your landscaping before, during, and after the application.
The "Dilution" Rule: Once our solution hits the wet ground or plants, it is instantly diluted to a harmless level. Our cleaning agents are biodegradable and break down into simple salt and water shortly after use.
Why This Matters for Your Duluth Home
In Northern Minnesota, moisture and shade lead to heavy organic growth. By using Soft Washing instead of high-pressure blasting, we protect your home’s biggest investment while keeping your landscaping vibrant and healthy.
Pro-Tip: If you have particularly sensitive plants like Japanese Maples or ferns, let us know! We can provide extra shielding with tarps for total peace of mind.
