House Washing
We use a soft wash method to clean residential siding and exterior surfaces. The process consists of spraying a cleaning chemical such as sodium percarbonate which when combined with water forms sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide. Often referred to as oxy-clean, the hydrogen peroxide is the cleaning agent and a ecofriendly cleaning chemical. The other common cleaning agent is sodium hypochlorite. Vinyl manufacturer recommendations are for a 1.25% sodium hypochlorite concentration, tri-sodium phosphate-phosphate free, and bleach stable detergent such as Elemonator (alkyldimethylamine oxide). After a dwell time the chemical is rinsed off using a pressure washer with a special low pressure nozzle or a soft wash rinse nozzle. Landscaping is protected through repeated rinsing with water during the cleaning process.
Roof Washing
The roof washing process is similar to the house washing process and the same chemicals can be used for architectural asphalt shingles. GAF Manufacturer recommendation is a 1.25% - 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (SH) solution with tri-sodium phosphate phosphate-free (TSP-PF), and bleach stable detergent. The roof is rinsed, the chemical is applied and allowed to dwell and it is rinsed off. Working gutters are best for this cleaning process. The runoff can be extended away from landscaping using gutter extensions which we provide. Plants and landscaping will be rinsed during the process. Delicate landscaping can be covered with plastic. Eco friendly chemicals can be used such as sodium percarbonate, however higher concentrations are required and possible separate treatments needed to remove stubborn moss and blue green algae.
Blue Green Algae on Roofs (Gloeocapsa Magma)
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria Gloeocapsa Magma, is a common problem on roofs, often appearing as dark streaks or stains. It's not just a cosmetic issue but can also lead to decreased roof lifespan and potentially impact the effectiveness of solar reflective roofs.
Roof Moss
Roof moss is a serious issue. Moss on a roof can cause damage by trapping moisture, potentially leading to rot and weakening of roofing materials. It can also lift shingles, creating pathways for water to seep into the roof and potentially inside the home. It typically grows in shaded areas under trees or on the north side of the roof where sunlight exposure is limited. Excessive moss growth on roofs can impact your home owners insurance policy. The best way to remove heavy moss immediately is to brush the moss off the roof. Chemical solution can be applied such as sodium hypochlorite which will kill the remaining moss and it will fall off the roof on its own. A zinc sulfate powder can be applied below the roof cap to discourage future moss growth.
Chemical Quality Control
To calibrate our proportioner mixing system for bleach we use a LaMotte direct reading titrator (DRT) kit to test the spray solution and verify the correct concentration is used on your property. To verify hydrogen peroxide concentrations we use a time based test strip kit from Bartovation. Solutions are calculated using mixing ratios and set using flow valves on the proportioner and verified via the test kits. The testing is expensive and can be provided specifically for your property upon request, else we defer to our intial calibration method and mixing solutions.
We are one of if not the only soft washing company in CT that uses this method to verify our applied solutions.