Question 1

What is soft washing and how is it different from pressure washing?

Accepted Answer

Soft washing utilizes low-pressure water combined with specially formulated cleaning solutions to eliminate contaminants at their source. This method is particularly well-suited for delicate surfaces and delivers a more thorough, longer-lasting clean than high-pressure washing methods.

Question 2

How long does a typical pressure washing service take?

Accepted Answer

The duration of service depends on the size of the area being cleaned. A small section of sidewalk may take less than an hour, while washing the entire exterior of a large apartment complex could require a full day. We work efficiently to complete every project in a timely manner, as our objective is to save you time rather than consume it.

Question 3

Do you provide other services in addition to pressure washing?

Accepted Answer

We offer several services beyond pressure washing. Additional services include roof cleaning, window cleaning, and gutter cleaning. These services are performed using soft washing techniques and brushing methods rather than pressurized water.

Question 4

What is the difference between soft washing and pressure washing, and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Pressure washing relies solely on high-PSI water to remove dirt from a surface. While effective on some materials, the force can drive water behind siding, crack grout, lift shingle granules, strip paint, and damage other delicate surfaces. It also removes only visible dirt, leaving mold, mildew, and algae spores behind to regrow within months.

Soft washing combines low-pressure water with professional-grade, biodegradable cleaning solutions that eliminate organic growth at its source while safely lifting dirt and contaminants. This method provides longer-lasting results without the risk of surface damage, making it our preferred approach for siding, roofing, and most other delicate exterior surfaces.

Question 5

Why do you use different methods for different siding materials?

Accepted Answer

Every siding material responds differently to pressure and cleaning solutions. Vinyl, fiber cement (Hardie board), brick, stucco, wood, and EIFS (synthetic stucco) each require their own cleaning approach.

For example, EIFS often contains rigid foam beneath a thin finish, making it susceptible to impact damage and water intrusion, while wood siding can absorb moisture, splinter, or raise its grain if cleaned improperly. Before starting any project, our technicians evaluate the siding material, its condition, and any potential risks, then select the safest and most effective cleaning method rather than using a one-size-fits-all process.

Question 6

Is it safe to soft wash a roof? Will it damage my shingles?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Soft washing is the only roof cleaning method approved by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). We use it on asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and TPO roofing systems.

Unlike high-pressure washing, which can remove protective granules, loosen shingles, and shorten a roof's lifespan, soft washing applies low-pressure, roof-safe cleaning solutions that eliminate the algae responsible for black streaks (commonly known as Gloeocapsa magma) without damaging the roofing material. We also adjust our cleaning process based on the roof's pitch and accessibility to ensure safe, effective results.

Question 7

Do you pressure wash concrete and driveways, and is that safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Concrete and other flat surfaces are among the few areas where higher pressure is appropriate because they are designed to withstand moderate pressure. However, the PSI is always adjusted based on the type and condition of the concrete.

For stubborn marks such as tire marks, oil, or organic buildup, we use a degreaser-assisted process to break down the contaminants before rinsing. For routine dirt and grime, water alone is often sufficient. Rather than applying the same pressure everywhere, we tailor both the cleaning method and pressure to the specific surface and type of marks.

Question 8

How do you clean windows, and do you remove screens?

Accepted Answer

Our technicians follow a systematic cleaning process, beginning with the highest windows and working downward so any drips fall onto glass that has not yet been cleaned. We clean the exterior first and finish with the interior, allowing the final pass to serve as a quality check.

As part of our standard service, each screen is removed, brushed clean, and reinstalled. We also offer deep screen cleaning, including a full screen wash, as an optional add-on. For heavily soiled exterior glass, we typically use fine-grade steel wool to safely remove embedded debris without scratching the glass. Razor blades are used only when absolutely necessary and with prior approval.

Question 9

How often should I have my house, roof, or windows cleaned?

Accepted Answer

The ideal cleaning schedule depends on your property's surroundings, including tree coverage, irrigation, and shade. As a general recommendation, most homes benefit from a professional house wash once a year.

Residential windows are typically cleaned twice annually—once in the spring and once in the fall—to remove pollen, weather-related buildup, and seasonal grime. Commercial properties vary more widely based on traffic and visibility. Storefronts and highly visible commercial glass are often cleaned weekly or monthly, while office buildings and lower-traffic properties may only require quarterly service.

Roofs and gutters should be inspected annually and cleaned as needed based on algae growth or debris accumulation. During your free estimate, we'll recommend a maintenance schedule that's customized to your property instead of relying on a standard timeline.

Question 10

What happens if I'm not satisfied with the results?

Accepted Answer

Every job is backed by our satisfaction guarantee. If any part of the work doesn't meet the scope we agreed upon, we'll return and make it right at no additional cost.

Each project is documented with before-and-after photos through CompanyCam, giving you a clear visual record of your property's condition before and after the service. Our technicians are also background-checked, professionally trained, and uniformed before ever being assigned to a job.

We also believe in setting honest expectations from the beginning. While we can safely remove most dirt, algae, mold, mildew, and other contaminants, some marks are permanent. Deep rust marks, mineral deposits, UV-related damage, deteriorated sealants, and long-term surface degradation can sometimes leave a surface looking significantly cleaner but not completely restored because the material itself has been permanently altered.

Our sales consultants discuss these possibilities during the estimate, our technicians reinforce them on-site if they discover conditions that weren't visible earlier, and our team follows up after the job to ensure you understand what improvements were possible and what damage was permanent before we arrived. Being transparent about those expectations is an important part of delivering on our satisfaction guarantee.

American Softwash

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