What softwashing is used for
Most homes in this part of Northern Ireland are finished in render or dash, and those surfaces pick up algae quickly, particularly on walls facing north or sitting close to fields, trees and hedges. Red staining, often called red algae, is especially common on light-coloured render. Softwashing treats the cause of the discolouration so the wall is genuinely clean, not just rinsed.
- ✓Smooth and textured render
- ✓Pebble dash and roughcast
- ✓Fascias, soffits and gutters (outside faces)
- ✓Some roof surfaces and ridge tiles
- ✓Walls, pillars and boundary walls
How a softwash is carried out
We first protect plants, windows and anything nearby that should not be treated. The cleaning solution is then applied at low pressure and given time to work on the growth. Depending on the surface and the level of staining, it is rinsed off gently, or left to continue working, with the remaining staining fading over the following days as the treatment finishes its job. We explain on your quote which approach we plan to use.
Why not just pressure wash the walls?
High pressure on render can lift paint, push water into hairline cracks and wear away the surface texture. It also tends to remove only the top layer of growth, leaving the roots behind so the staining returns quickly. Softwashing is gentler on the surface and tackles the growth itself. That said, we do pressure wash where and when it is the right tool, such as on hard ground surfaces. Our guide comparing softwashing and pressure washing sets out when each one makes sense.
Combining softwashing with a roof clean
Many customers book softwashing at the same time as roof cleaning so the whole house is done in one visit. Once the moss is off the roof, clean walls finish off the job and the difference from the road is obvious. If you would like a combined quote, mention it in the form and we will price each part separately so you can choose.
Getting a quote
Softwashing is booked Monday to Saturday, and because the cleaning solution needs time to work, we avoid days when heavy rain is forecast straight afterwards. If your house has delicate features such as painted window sills, timber cladding or a conservatory, mention them and we will plan around them. Red and green staining often returns first on the wettest wall, so keeping gutters clear and plants trimmed back from the render helps the result last.
The best way to start is to send us photos of the affected walls and tell us roughly how large the house is. We will come back with a free written quote. If we think a different approach would suit your property better, we will tell you.
Frequently asked questions
Will softwashing damage my render or paint?
Softwashing uses low pressure, so it is much gentler on render and paint than a high-pressure wash.
Can softwashing remove red staining?
Yes. Red algae staining on render is one of the most common reasons customers ask us to softwash.
Do you protect plants and windows?
Yes. We protect plants, windows and nearby surfaces before applying any cleaning solution.
Can I get the roof and walls done together?
Yes. Ask for a combined quote and we will price each part separately.