From the free quote to the final rinse, soft washing for aluminum siding in your area follows a simple process: inspect, protect, clean, rinse and check. On aluminum siding, the method we use is soft wash.
The right method for the job
Cleaning solution: A gentle detergent solution; strong cleaners can dull the finish further.
Cleaning aluminum siding safely
Older aluminum siding often has a chalky, oxidized finish. Washing removes dirt and mildew but also removes loose chalk, which can make faded panels look patchy. If the finish is badly oxidized, washing is usually the prep step before repainting.
Avoid: High pressure, which dents thin panels and strips chalky paint unevenly.
How often: Every 1-2 years.
Signs you need soft washing for aluminum siding
- Green, black or gray film on siding, especially on the north side
- Black streaks running down the roof
- Moss or lichen on shingles or tile
- A musty smell around shaded walls
- Pressure washing would damage the surface
What causes the dirt and stains
- Algae, mold and mildew that grow in shade and humidity
- Roof algae that feeds on the limestone filler in shingles
- Pollen and dust that give growth something to hold on to
- Sprinklers and gutters that keep walls damp
Easy upkeep between cleanings
- Trim back branches and shrubs that touch the house so walls can dry
- Keep gutters clear so water doesn't overflow down the siding
- Spot-clean small areas with a soft brush and mild detergent
- Aim sprinklers away from the house
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using too strong a mix, which can burn plants and fade surfaces
- Using too weak a mix, which leaves growth alive and it returns quickly
- Climbing ladders with a spray wand and chemicals
- Mistaking soft washing for 'pressure washing on low'
Our process for soft washing for aluminum siding
- Identify the surfaces and the type of growth
- Pre-wet plants, cover sensitive fixtures and close windows
- Apply a solution mixed for the surface and let it dwell
- Rinse at low pressure from the top down
- Rinse plants again and check every side with you
How much does soft washing for aluminum siding cost?
What moves the price:
- Size: square footage of siding, roof or flatwork
- Condition: heavy growth, old stains and peeling finishes take longer
- Access: number of stories, roof pitch, slopes and how close we can park
- Add-ons: sealing, gutter brightening and other services done in the same trip
These are typical U.S. ranges, not a quote. You get an exact price before any work starts. For a quick estimate, try the pressure washing cost calculator.
Other services for aluminum siding
Serving your area and nearby towns
We provide soft washing for aluminum siding across all 50 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Pick your state to see local details:
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Alabama
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Alaska
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Arizona
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Arkansas
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in California
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Colorado
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Connecticut
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Delaware
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in District of Columbia
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Florida
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Georgia
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Hawaii
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Idaho
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Illinois
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Indiana
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Iowa
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Kansas
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Kentucky
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Louisiana
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Maine
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Maryland
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Massachusetts
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Michigan
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Minnesota
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Mississippi
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Missouri
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Montana
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Nebraska
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Nevada
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in New Hampshire
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in New Jersey
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in New Mexico
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in New York
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in North Carolina
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in North Dakota
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Ohio
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Oklahoma
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Oregon
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Pennsylvania
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Puerto Rico
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Rhode Island
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in South Carolina
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in South Dakota
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Tennessee
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Texas
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Utah
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Vermont
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Virginia
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Washington
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in West Virginia
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Wisconsin
- Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding in Wyoming
Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding: frequently asked questions
How much does soft washing for aluminum siding cost?
Soft Washing for Aluminum Siding typically costs $300-$800 for a typical single-family home exterior, and usually takes 2-4 hours. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for soft washing for aluminum siding?
For aluminum siding: soft wash, typically under 500 PSI. What we avoid: high pressure, which dents thin panels and strips chalky paint unevenly. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is soft washing for aluminum siding safe for my plants and pets?
We pre-wet plants and lawns, keep cleaning solutions diluted to what the surface needs, and rinse landscaping again when we finish. Keep pets and children inside until surfaces are rinsed and dry.
How often should I schedule soft washing for aluminum siding?
Every 1-2 years. Shade, nearby trees, humidity and heavy traffic mean more frequent cleaning; sunny, dry spots can go longer. Our free cleaning frequency tool gives a recommendation for your climate.
What if it rains on the day?
Light rain doesn't stop most washing, but heavy rain, high wind, lightning and freezing temperatures do. If the weather isn't right, we reschedule at no charge. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.