When it comes to cleaning walls, rendering or brickwork, many house owners and professionals are faced with a tricky question: Is soft washing eco friendly? At first glance, using chemicals on outdoor walls may not seem like the most environmentally friendly option. But if the soft washing methods and equipment are chosen correctly, it can be the more eco friendly option than pressure washing or manual washing.
Render Wash will explore the facts and FAQs surrounding softwashing from an environmental perspective and learn how you can clean your exterior walls responsibly using the right tools, chemicals, and techniques.
Effective Cleaning of Exterior Walls
Soft washing is a low-pressure cleaning method that uses biodegradable chemicals to safely remove mildew, bacteria, algae, fungus, moss, and other organic build ups from roofs and exterior surfaces. Unlike pressure washing, which relies on mechanical force (and water!), soft washing targets the root of the problem: the living organisms.
Thanks to specialised solutions like Softwash Biocide 50% DDAC and Clever Wash Surfactant, contaminants are removed effectively without risking surface damage or wasting large volumes of water. Most importantly, these formulations are specifically designed to break down naturally and safely over time.
Pressure Washing or Soft Washing?
While traditional pressure washing can use up to 8 gallons of water per minute and can strip protective coatings off surfaces, soft washing uses far less water and delivers longer lasting results.
Green Benefits of Soft Washing
Soft washing has a host of eco-friendly advantages when compared to its more abrasive cousin, pressure washing:
- Reduced Water Use: Soft washing typically uses 1/3 the amount of water or less.
- Longer-Lasting Results: Treated surfaces stay cleaner longer, reducing the frequency of required cleanings.
- Less Physical Erosion: Surfaces like render, shingles, and wood are preserved, not blasted away.
For example, cleaning rendered walls using a soft wash method is not only safer but also more effective. Learn more in our featured article on how to clean rendered walls effectively.
Using Soft Wash Chemicals Safely & Legally
Let’s look into a few common concern: What about the chemicals? The truth is, substances like sodium hypochlorite (commonly used in soft washing) pose minimal risk when used properly and in compliance with dilution guides. Use our Sodium Hypochlorite Mixing Guide to achieve accurate and safe ratios.
Concerned about side effects on surfaces or nearby plant life? Many of these worries are addressed in our podcast:
- Will Sodium Hypochlorite Bleach Surfaces?
- Is it Illegal to Use Sodium Hypochlorite to Softwash?
Clean Responsibly with Confidence
Soft washing offers a compelling solution for effective exterior cleaning with a lower environmental footprint. By using the right techniques, eco conscious surfactants, and regulated biocides, it’s possible to maintain beautiful surfaces without harming your surroundings or nearby ecosystems.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to clean your property’s render or a professional building your eco cleaning business, there’s never been a better time to switch to soft washing.