Clean Siding Without Forcing Water Behind It

Soft wash services in Martinsville that safely remove mold, mildew, and organic stains from painted and delicate exterior surfaces.

When you look at the north side of your home in Martinsville, you often see dark streaks running down vinyl siding or green patches collecting under roof edges. These stains come from algae, mold, and mildew that grow in shaded, damp areas where sunlight does not reach. Perkins Painting and Pressure Washing Inc. uses low-pressure soft washing to remove these stains without damaging paint, forcing water under siding panels, or stripping protective coatings.

Soft washing applies cleaning solution at garden hose pressure, allowing detergents to break down organic growth instead of relying on high-pressure water. The method works on vinyl and fiber cement siding, painted wood trim, stucco, roof shingles, and screened porches. It clears discoloration without the risk of surface gouging or water intrusion that can occur with traditional pressure washing.

If your Martinsville home has visible staining on siding or roofing, contact us to schedule a soft wash service.

Why pressure level matters for painted surfaces

We begin by applying a biodegradable cleaning solution to stained areas using a pump sprayer or low-pressure nozzle. The solution sits on the surface for several minutes, breaking down algae roots and mildew spores. In Martinsville, homes with tree cover or northern exposure collect the most buildup, so dwell time and solution strength vary based on stain depth and surface porosity.

After rinsing, you will see that dark streaks disappear, siding returns to its original color, and roof shingles no longer look aged or discolored. The cleaning does not remove paint, wear down textured surfaces, or leave behind chemical residue that attracts dirt faster than before treatment.

Soft washing is effective on both residential and commercial buildings, especially those with older paint, decorative trim, or materials that cannot tolerate high-pressure water. The service does not include interior surfaces, concrete driveways, or heavily soiled areas that require mechanical scrubbing. Results typically last longer than pressure washing because the cleaning solution kills organic growth at the root rather than temporarily blasting it away.

What homeowners want to know before booking

Homeowners in Martinsville often ask how soft washing differs from pressure washing, whether it works on all surfaces, and how long results last before staining returns.

What is the difference between soft washing and pressure washing?
Soft washing uses low pressure and cleaning solutions to remove organic stains without damaging surfaces. Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt and works better on concrete, brick, and unpainted materials.
How long do soft wash results last?
Most homes stay clean for one to three years depending on shade, humidity, and tree proximity. Homes with heavy tree cover or northern exposure may need cleaning more frequently.
When should I choose soft washing instead of pressure washing?
You should choose soft washing for painted siding, wood trim, roof shingles, stucco, and any surface where high pressure could cause damage or force water behind exterior panels.
What types of stains does soft washing remove?
Soft washing removes algae, mold, mildew, lichen, and organic discoloration. It does not remove rust stains, graffiti, oil, or embedded dirt that requires mechanical scrubbing or solvent treatment.
Will the cleaning solution harm plants or landscaping?
We pre-wet plants and rinse thoroughly after treatment to minimize contact. The cleaning solution is biodegradable and dilutes quickly, but sensitive plants near the work area are covered when possible.

Perkins Painting and Pressure Washing Inc. provides soft wash services for homes and businesses across Martinsville that need safe, thorough cleaning without surface damage. Get in touch to discuss your property and schedule a soft wash appointment.