Roofs and gutters

What is soft washing?

How soft washing differs from pressure washing, and why low pressure suits roofs, render and UPVC.

· 2 min read

Red tiled roof with three dormer windows, blue sky behind

Soft washing is on our van for a reason. It is one of the main ways to clean surfaces that high pressure could damage.

Soft washing in short

Soft washing cleans with low-pressure water and a cleaning solution, rather than blasting dirt off with force. The solution does most of the work, breaking down algae, lichen and organic growth. The surface is then rinsed at low pressure.

Why low pressure matters

A pressure washer is great on hard, tough surfaces like concrete and block paving. On softer or more delicate surfaces it can cause problems:

  • Roof tiles can be damaged, and water can be forced up under them.
  • Render can be marked or eroded.
  • UPVC and painted surfaces can be scratched.

Low pressure avoids that while still getting the surface clean.

Where we use it

We use soft washing and low-pressure steam cleaning on roofs where they suit the tiles. For fascias, soffits and cladding we use purified water for a streak-free finish. Pressure washing is kept for driveways and patios.

Does it last?

Organic growth comes back over time, especially on shaded surfaces. A treatment after cleaning helps slow that down. See why moss grows on roofs.

Want to know what your roof needs? See roof cleaning or send us a photo.

JustBinCleaned van with its bin washing rig at the back, parked on a residential street

Ready for a free quote?

Tell us what needs cleaning and where. Photos help. We’ll come back with a price, with no obligation.

Rather talk it through?

Call or WhatsApp us, Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 8am to 1pm.