Prices

Won’t pressure washing my house damage it?

We don't use pressure washing for your home or commercial building; instead, we employ a technique known as softwashing. Softwashing is an industry technique that involves the use of cleaning solutions, low pressure, and a high flow of water to gently cleanse surfaces.

What is Softwashing?

Softwashing is a specialised cleaning method that contrasts sharply with traditional pressure washing. Instead of relying on high-pressure water jets to remove dirt, grime, and buildup, softwashing uses a combination of eco-friendly cleaning agents that are carefully selected to treat specific stains and types of dirt. This method ensures a thorough clean without the risk of damage that high-pressure washing can sometimes inflict on softer or more delicate surfaces.

First, we apply a cleaning solution, which is designed to break down dirt, mould, mildew, algae, and other organic substances that can accumulate on exterior surfaces. The solution does its work, penetrating and loosening the grime.

After the cleaning agents have had time to work their magic, a low-pressure rinse system is used. This system delivers a high flow of water that is powerful enough to wash away the contaminants but gentle enough to protect the integrity of the surface being cleaned. This makes Softwashing an ideal choice for a wide range of materials, including siding, roofs, decks, and even outdoor furniture.

Softwashing not only cleans surfaces but also treats them to prevent the quick return of algae, mould, and mildew, offering a longer-lasting cleanliness than pressure washing alone. It's an effective, gentle, and environmentally responsible approach to maintaining the appearance and longevity of your property's exterior.

I’m concerned about cleaning agents from the service

APW uses biodegradable and environmentally friendly products for our services, in combination with a commercial portioning system to get exact amounts of detergents required for cleaning. This means that we can control the percentage and often use as low as 1% for Softwashing. Once the detergent is rinsed from the surface, that leaves less than 0.01% in most cases.

Do you use bleach? Isn’t that bad?

Bleach is considered a safe product for outdoor cleaning for several reasons. First, when used correctly and in the proper dilutions, bleach effectively kills germs, bacteria, and mould without harming plants or animals in the environment. Second, it’s safe in reasonable amounts for consumption and is used to purify water.
Its main component, sodium hypochlorite, breaks down into salt and water after use, reducing environmental impact. Additionally, bleach is great for removing stains and disinfecting surfaces like patios, siding, and outdoor furniture. We use a commercial grade proportioner to dilute and control the usage, to minimise any potential harm to the environment. After rinsing, the dilution is well below 0.01%. Using bleach in well-ventilated outdoor areas also ensures that its use is both safe and effective for cleaning purposes.

Cost – How do you calculate your prices?

We like to conduct a complimentary site visit for each exterior project we undertake, recognizing that every property has its unique characteristics. During this visit, we assess the size of the area to be serviced, primarily basing our quotes on a per square foot rate. The good news is, the larger the job, the lower the cost per square foot becomes. Additionally, you can take advantage of additional discounts when you bundle services.