Property owners have legitimate reasons to worry about Potential Damage to their delicate roofing materials, particularly when it comes to soft washing. As a seasoned consultant in the roofing industry, I’ve seen firsthand the possible damage and how it can be mitigated. In this article, we’ll delve into the topic and provide insights gleaned from years of experience.
Introduction to Soft Washing
Soft washing is a cleaning method that employs low-pressure water flow and specialized cleansing solutions to safely remove mildew, bacteria, algae, and other organic stains from roofs. It’s commonly used as an alternative to traditional high-pressure washing, which can cause damage to delicate surfaces.
Why Property Owners Worry about Soft Washing
While the method is generally safer for roofing materials, property owners often express concerns. These worries primarily center around three issues:
- The Potential for Damage
- Chemical Exposure
- Long-term Effects
The Potential for Damage
No matter how delicate the roofing materials, the first concern that arises with any cleaning procedure is the potential for damage. The fear is understandable – roofs are critical for protecting homes, and they can be expensive to repair or replace.
While soft washing is designed to be gentler on surfaces, improper execution can indeed cause damage. Overly concentrated cleaning solutions or incorrect application can result in discoloration, material degradation, and even structural harm.
To prevent this from occurring Softwash Hawaii Teams go through annual certifications that are both online and in-person. Online and offsite trainings are conducted by a 3rd party vendor (Softwash Systems) who is a 3rd generation soft washing company located in Sanford, Florida.
Policies and procedures are in place to prevent and mitigate any potential damage that may occur during a soft washing service.
Chemical Exposure
Another concern associated with soft washing is the impact of chemicals on both the roof and the surrounding environment. Many soft wash solutions contain sodium hypochlorite, a powerful disinfectant that can potentially harm plants and other landscaping elements if not handled correctly.
All chemicals used for Soft Washing by Softwash Hawaii are water-based, non-hazardous, and naturally biodegradable. Bleach is one component of the cleaning solution that is used at a strength to eliminate the organic contaminants without wasting (overdosing) the bleach.
As with all chemical usage, the goal is to use just a high enough a strength, at a minimal volume, to achieve the expected result.
Long-term Effects
The long-term effects of soft washing on delicate roofing materials is a concern that keeps property owners awake at night. Some believe that regular soft washing can shorten a roof’s lifespan. This concern stems from the possibility of repeated chemical exposure and potential wear and tear from the cleaning process.
Depending on the surface material type, soft washing chemicals will be neutralized and rinsed once the soft washing process is complete.
And as was said previously, the goal for chemical usage is to use just a high enough a strength, at a minimal volume, to achieve the expected result.
Mitigating Potential Damage: Best Practices
Fortunately, these concerns are able be addressed with proper soft washing practices:
Choose a Reliable Professional
The right professional can make all the difference. An experienced technician knows how to mix cleaning solutions correctly and apply them safely, minimizing the risk of damage.
Ask your soft washing vendor about their training requirements, policies, and procedures. This to get an idea on how serious the business is about providing a service and experience that meets your expectations.
Use Environmentally Safe Solutions
It’s crucial to use eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning solutions that won’t harm the surrounding environment or your roof in the long run.
All soft washing chemicals which Softwash Hawaii uses are sourced from Softwash Systems of Sanford, Florida. ALL chemicals are water-based, non-hazardous, naturally biodegradable, 3rd party tested, and environmentally friendly.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Regular roof inspections and routine maintenance can identify and mitigate any potential long-term damage from soft washing or other types of costly damage. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you are able to extend the lifespan of your roofing materials.
Lessons from the Roofing Industry
Years of experience in the roofing industry have taught us a few valuable lessons about soft washing and how to address property owners’ concerns:
- Education is Key: Many fears stem from a lack of understanding. Educating property owners about the process and benefits of soft washing can go a long way in alleviating concerns.
- Quality Over Speed: While soft washing is quicker than some alternatives, rushing the job can lead to avoidable damage. Quality should always take precedence over speed.
- Proactive Maintenance is Essential: Regular roof inspections and timely repairs are crucial in preserving the condition and lifespan of any roofing material.
In Summary
The concerns of property owners about the potential damage to delicate roofing materials when soft washing are not unfounded. However, with proper application, the use of environmentally friendly products, and regular roof maintenance, soft washing can be a safe and effective cleaning method. The roofing industry’s lessons underscore the importance of education, quality work, and proactive maintenance. By focusing on these areas, property owners can enjoy the benefits of soft washing while mitigating potential risks.
