When we handle soft washing for asphalt shingle roofs in your area, it comes down to three things: protecting your plants and property, cleaning with the right method, and walking the job with you at the end. For asphalt shingle roofs, that means soft wash (no pressure).
Method and pressure
Cleaning solution: A diluted sodium hypochlorite solution with surfactant; plants below are pre-wet and rinsed.
Cleaning asphalt shingle roofs safely
The black streaks on many asphalt roofs are a type of algae, often Gloeocapsa magma, that feeds on the limestone filler in shingles. It is killed with a soft wash solution, not blasted off. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association advises against pressure washing shingles because it strips the granules that protect them.
Avoid: Pressure washing, which strips granules and shortens the roof's life, and walking on wet, slick shingles.
How often: Every 3-5 years, or when streaks return.
Is it time for soft washing for asphalt shingle roofs?
- 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
Why it gets dirty
- 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
Safe steps for homeowners
- 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.
Why more pressure isn’t better
- 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'
How we handle soft washing for asphalt shingle roofs
- 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 asphalt shingle roofs 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 asphalt shingle roofs
Local soft washing for asphalt shingle roofs for your area
We provide soft washing for asphalt shingle roofs across all 50 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Pick your state to see local details:
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Alabama
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Alaska
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Arizona
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Arkansas
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in California
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Colorado
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Connecticut
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Delaware
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in District of Columbia
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Florida
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Georgia
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Hawaii
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Idaho
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Illinois
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Indiana
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Iowa
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Kansas
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Kentucky
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Louisiana
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Maine
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Maryland
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Massachusetts
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Michigan
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Minnesota
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Mississippi
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Missouri
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Montana
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Nebraska
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Nevada
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in New Hampshire
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in New Jersey
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in New Mexico
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in New York
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in North Carolina
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in North Dakota
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Ohio
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Oklahoma
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Oregon
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Pennsylvania
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Puerto Rico
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Rhode Island
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in South Carolina
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in South Dakota
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Tennessee
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Texas
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Utah
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Vermont
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Virginia
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Washington
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in West Virginia
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Wisconsin
- Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs in Wyoming
Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs: frequently asked questions
How much does soft washing for asphalt shingle roofs cost?
Soft Washing for Asphalt Shingle Roofs 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 asphalt shingle roofs?
For asphalt shingle roofs: no pressure washing; the solution is applied at very low pressure and rinsed gently. What we avoid: pressure washing, which strips granules and shortens the roof's life, and walking on wet, slick shingles. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is soft washing for asphalt shingle roofs 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 asphalt shingle roofs?
Every 3-5 years, or when streaks return. 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.