What’s the difference?
Soft washing uses a cleaning solution and low-pressure water. Pressure washing relies more on the force of the water to remove buildup. The right choice depends on the material, its condition and the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Start at the top
Black streaks on an asphalt roof?
Dark roof streaks can be caused by algae. More water pressure is not the answer: the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association advises against power washing asphalt shingles because it can damage the roofing.
Curbwell’s roof soft washing and moss treatment uses hypochlorite and surfactant on suitable roofs to treat algae, black streaks and moss. We review the roof and agree the areas to be treated before booking.
Cleaning does not repair damaged shingles or restore a worn roof. If you also have missing shingles or other damage, let us know so the cleaning and any repair needs can be considered separately.
Roof-care reference: ARMA’s guidance on algae discoloration.
Care for the finish
House washing should suit your siding.
Vinyl, painted surfaces and fibre-cement siding do not all have the same cleaning requirements. A method suitable for one home may be wrong for another.
For example, James Hardie recommends low-pressure water and a soft, nonmetal brush for routine cleaning of its siding. That is why we start with your siding material and condition, then plan the cleaning method.
Our siding soft washing service in Ottawa covers the agreed exterior siding. Share photos of dirt, organic buildup or staining, and point out any loose panels, failing paint or areas that need special attention.
Siding-care reference: James Hardie’s siding cleaning guidance.
Bring the work together
Does a house wash include the roof and windows?
Only when they are listed in your quote. Siding washing, roof treatment, gutter cleaning and exterior window cleaning are distinct services.
- Roof
- Low-pressure treatment of the agreed roof areas.
- Siding
- Cleaning of the agreed exterior wall surfaces.
- Gutters
- Removal of loose leaves and debris from accessible eavestroughs, with accessible downspout openings checked. This differs from washing the outside faces of the gutters.
- Windows
- Cleaning of the agreed exterior glass. Interior windows, screens and track detailing are not automatically included.
Our full exterior house cleaning package combines all four into one plan. The exterior window clean follows the washing work. Scheduling may involve more than one visit.
Make your next step simple
What should you send for a quote?
Send your address, a few overview photos and close-ups of the areas you want cleaned. Include the number of storeys and whether there is a working outdoor tap. For windows, an approximate count is helpful.
Your quote will identify the included surfaces and price. We also agree access, use of your outdoor water supply and where collected gutter debris will be left on site.
We serve neighbourhoods across Ottawa, including Kanata, Barrhaven, Nepean, Westboro, Manotick, Riverside South and Orléans. Send your address to confirm availability.