For homeowners and property managers in Lake County, Illinois, Kenosha County, Wisconsin, and Racine County, Wisconsin, maintaining a clean and attractive exterior is crucial. Curb appeal not only enhances pride of ownership but also increases property value. However, traditional pressure washing methods can be too harsh for delicate siding materials like vinyl, wood, stucco, and even brick. This is where soft washing comes in – a gentler, yet highly effective (More Effective), method for achieving a sparkling clean exterior.
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing utilizes a low-pressure application of a specially formulated cleaning solution to remove dirt, grime, mold, mildew, algae, and other contaminants from your home’s siding. Unlike pressure washing, which uses a forceful water spray that can damage surfaces, soft washing relies on a combination of cleaning solution power and dwell time.
The Soft Washing Process
Here’s a breakdown of the typical soft washing process for siding:
- Pre-Inspection: A professional soft washing company like Z Pressure Washing will conduct a thorough inspection of your siding to assess the type of material, extent of contamination, and presence of any potential existing damage to watch out for.
- Plant Protection: Soft washing solutions are generally eco-friendly, but some surrounding plants might be more sensitive. The professionals will take steps to protect your landscaping, such as covering certain types of shrubs or applying a light horticultural soap. Z Pressure Washing operates in teams of two, which allows one technician to focus on plant protection throughout the process.
- Solution Application: A low-pressure sprayer is used to apply the cleaning solution evenly to the siding. The solution clings to the surface, allowing it to break down contaminants over a specific dwell time.
- Rinsing: After the dwell time, a gentle rinse with low-pressure water removes the loosened dirt, grime, and cleaning solution, leaving a sparkling clean surface.
- Post-Cleaning Inspection: A final inspection ensures a thorough clean and identifies any areas that may require touch-up.
Benefits of Soft Washing for Siding
Soft washing offers numerous advantages over traditional pressure washing methods for cleaning siding:
- Gentler Cleaning: The low-pressure application minimizes the risk of damaging delicate siding materials.
- Effective Cleaning: The cleaning solution breaks down and removes even stubborn contaminants like mold, mildew, and algae. In fact, it kills them to the root.
- Longer-Lasting Results: By eliminating the root cause of stains, soft washing provides longer-lasting results compared to pressure washing, which can simply redistribute dirt. The fact is the pressurized water will simply remove the top layer of mold, mildew, and algae and not affect the roots, which allows it to regrow quickly. Z Pressure Washing kills this growth including the roots using our soft wash system, so your siding is left completely clean.
- Improved Curb Appeal: A clean exterior significantly enhances the visual appeal of your property. You don’t need to feel embarrassed anymore. Nor do you need to breathe in the spores spread from the growth of mold, mildew, and algae on your siding.
- Increased Property Value: A well-maintained property with clean siding will command a higher market value.
Is Soft Washing Right for Your Siding?
Soft washing is a versatile cleaning method suitable for various siding materials, including:
- Vinyl siding
- Wood siding
- Stucco
- Brick
- Fiber cement
- And many more
DIY Soft Washing vs. Professional Soft Washing
While soft washing might seem like a DIY project, there are several advantages to hiring a professional company like Z Pressure Washing:
- Expertise: Professionals have the knowledge and experience to select the appropriate cleaning solutions and techniques for your specific siding material and the contaminants that are affecting it.
- Safety: Handling cleaning solutions and operating specialized equipment requires proper training and safety precautions.
- Insurance: Professional companies carry liability insurance, protecting you in case of any unforeseen accidents.
- Efficiency: Professionals have the necessary equipment and experience to complete the job quickly and efficiently.
- Peace of Mind: Hiring a professional allows you to relax and enjoy the results without the hassle and potential risks of DIY soft washing. The fact is, some of the cleaning solutions required can be very dangerous if used improperly or without the proper safety equipment.
Finding a Reputable Soft Washing Company in Lake, Kenosha, and Racine Counties
When searching for a soft washing company in Lake County, Illinois, Kenosha County, Wisconsin, or Racine County, Wisconsin, consider the following factors:
- Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record and experience working on similar siding materials.
- Insurance: Ensure the company is fully insured for liability. While Z Pressure Washing has never needed to utilize our Liability Policy, we absolutely keep it up to date. Make sure you ask to see proof of liability coverage. If a company doesn’t have it, don’t hire them.
- Customer Reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials from past clients. The very best place to find and trust reviews is Google. If a company doesn’t have a Google profile, there is likely a reason for that and you should not put your trust in a company without one. Just Google “Z Pressure Washing” and you will see our Google Business Profile on the right side of the search results. Trust reviews from here to be true and trusted. Google knows the profiles that are trusted enough to be able to leave reviews.
Soft Washing: A Smart Investment for Your Home’s Exterior
Soft washing is a safe and effective way to maintain the beauty and value of your property in Lake County, Illinois, Kenosha County, Wisconsin, and Racine County, Wisconsin. By choosing a reputable soft washing company, you can ensure a sparkling clean exterior that will last for years to come.
Z Pressure Washing knows exactly how to handle all the contaminants that are prevalent here in the Midwest.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Siding
- Regularly trim shrubs and trees away from your siding to prevent moisture buildup and promote air circulation. It’s best to maintain at least a 6” distance between your plants and your siding.
- Don’t lean anything against your siding for storage.
- Address minor cracks or holes in your siding.
- Mow with the lawnmower discharge always pointing away from your siding.
- We suggest utilizing an annual contract with Z Pressure Washing to visit your property and touch up any new contamination. This provides an ongoing clean atmosphere, which is good for your health as well as your home’s health.