Questions | Livonia | Pro Tek Power Washing
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS SOFT WASHING?

Soft washing is a term that is becoming much more commonly used in the pressure washing and roof cleaning industries. It simply means to clean a given exterior using a much softer amount of pressure than most would traditionally associate with a pressure washing company. In fact, most of the exterior cleaning services performed by today’s professionals would fall under the soft washing umbrella. The reason that the term pressure washing is still so widely used has more to do with its industry term recognition than anything. My definition of soft washing is to clean an exterior using 400 psi or less.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SOFT WASHING?

Soft Washing – This is not power washing, this is using low pressure to apply a cleaning solution to remove mold, mildew, algae, moss & airborne contaminants such as road grime and sea breeze (salt & sand). This is the most thorough cleaning method available today

Roof Washing – This method is recommended by the Asphalt Roofing Manufactures Association (ARMA) to remove moss, lichen, black streaks or stains on a roof and will not void warranties

Maximize Curb Appeal – We all enjoy looking at beautiful homes. One of the easiest and inexpensive ways to maximize that charm, is to clean everything from the roof to the road utilizing Soft Washing Techniques

Maximize Property Value – Cleaner properties are more inviting, sell faster for more money & increase the value of the entire community

Soft Wash LOW Pressure Cleaning Methods combined with the highest quality cleaning solutions, enable us to provide your property with a maximum level of cleanliness & curb appeal

WHAT ARE THOSE BLACK STREAKS ON MY ROOF?

Well, some will tell you that those dirty dark spots, or roof stains can be washed off with a garden hose. In fact, it is likely an algae (Gloeocapsa Magma) growing on your roof and requires a stronger solution. The bacteria accumulate over time as it feeds on moisture, calcium carbonate and limestone filler in the shingle. The moisture it holds drastically reduce the functionality of the shingle.  Gloeocapsa Magma has gained notoriety in the Southeastern United States, but, it is also spreading throughout the Midwest due to high levels of humidity in the region.  This particular type of algae is responsible for creating black stains and streaks on roofs.  These shingles hold moisture and organic bacteria food material longer (especially on the North-side in the Midwest) than the paper/asphalt/ceramic shingles of 20+ years ago.  Once the bacteria have become noticeable, the stains will continue to worsen year to year.  If left untreated these black stains can shorten the expected life of your shingles by up to 30%.

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