It’s one of the first questions homeowners ask before a house or roof wash. Here’s how we work around plants and property — and how you can help.
Soft washing uses a cleaning solution rather than high pressure, so how the job is done matters. We work carefully around landscaping, fixtures and surrounding surfaces, using the appropriate cleaning method for each area. The cleaning solution is applied to the surfaces being cleaned rather than broadly around the property. Keeping pets and children indoors until the job is finished is a sensible precaution.
It’s a fair concern. Soft washing relies on a cleaning solution rather than force to remove algae, mildew and moss — so it’s reasonable to ask what happens to the plants, lawn and pets around the house.
How we work around landscaping
With our house washing and roof cleaning, we work carefully around landscaping, fixtures and surrounding surfaces, using the appropriate cleaning method for each area. The cleaning solution is applied to the surfaces being cleaned rather than broadly around the property.
What you can do to prepare
- Move potted plants, cushions, toys and small outdoor items away from the walls
- Close windows and doors on the sides being cleaned
- Point out any delicate or prized plants, vegetable beds or water features
- Make sure there’s an outdoor tap we can use, and access around the house
Pets and kids
Keep pets and children indoors, or well away from the active work area, while the exterior cleaning is being done. It keeps them clear of the work, hoses and equipment.
Why not just use a pressure washer instead?
Using high pressure instead of a cleaning solution doesn’t solve the problem — on siding, stucco and roofs it risks forcing water behind the cladding, stripping paint and lifting shingle granules, and it usually leaves the algae’s roots behind so staining returns sooner. See how to remove green algae from a house exterior for why soft washing is the right method.
What about DIY moss and algae products?
Store-bought products can also affect plants if runoff isn’t managed — always read the label. We cover what those products can and can’t do on roofs in does zinc or moss killer stop roof moss?
FAQs
Do I need to be home during a soft wash?
Usually not, as long as we have access around the outside of the house and to an outdoor tap. If you have pets, make sure they’re kept inside.
Is roof cleaning handled the same way?
Yes — with roof cleaning and moss removal, we work carefully around landscaping, fixtures and surrounding surfaces, using the appropriate cleaning method for each area.