Looking for soft washing for cedar shake roofs in your area? We look at the surface first, choose the right method and pressure for it, and give you a price before any work starts. On cedar shake roofs, the method we use is soft wash.
How we clean it
Cleaning solution: A wood-safe roof cleaning solution, sometimes followed by a brightener and preservative.
Caring for cedar shake roofs
Cedar shakes grow moss and lichen and turn gray as the wood weathers. Cleaning removes growth and lets the roof dry faster, and many owners follow it with a preservative treatment.
Avoid: High pressure, which erodes and splits the wood and shortens the roof's life.
How often: Every 2-4 years.
Is it time for soft washing for cedar shake 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
Where the grime comes from
- 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.
What can go wrong with DIY pressure washing
- 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 cedar shake 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 cedar shake 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 cedar shake roofs
Local soft washing for cedar shake roofs for your area
We provide soft washing for cedar shake roofs across all 50 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Pick your state to see local details:
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Alabama
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Alaska
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Arizona
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Arkansas
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in California
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Colorado
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Connecticut
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Delaware
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in District of Columbia
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Florida
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Georgia
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Hawaii
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Idaho
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Illinois
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Indiana
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Iowa
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Kansas
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Kentucky
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Louisiana
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Maine
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Maryland
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Massachusetts
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Michigan
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Minnesota
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Mississippi
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Missouri
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Montana
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Nebraska
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Nevada
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in New Hampshire
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in New Jersey
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in New Mexico
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in New York
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in North Carolina
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in North Dakota
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Ohio
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Oklahoma
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Oregon
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Pennsylvania
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Puerto Rico
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Rhode Island
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in South Carolina
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in South Dakota
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Tennessee
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Texas
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Utah
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Vermont
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Virginia
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Washington
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in West Virginia
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Wisconsin
- Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs in Wyoming
Soft Washing for Cedar Shake Roofs: frequently asked questions
How much does soft washing for cedar shake roofs cost?
Soft Washing for Cedar Shake 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 cedar shake roofs?
For cedar shake roofs: soft wash only. What we avoid: high pressure, which erodes and splits the wood and shortens the roof's life. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is soft washing for cedar shake 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 cedar shake roofs?
Every 2-4 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.