The secret to soft washing for metal roofs is using the right method, not the most pressure. In your area, we match the cleaner and pressure to the surface so it comes out clean without damage. With metal roofs, the right approach is soft wash.
Method and pressure
Cleaning solution: A mild detergent or soft wash solution suitable for painted metal.
Cleaning metal roofs safely
Painted metal roofs collect dirt, mildew and oxidation chalk. A soft wash cleans them without damaging the coating, and rinsing off salt film matters on coastal homes.
Avoid: High pressure at the seams and fasteners, and abrasive or strongly acidic cleaners that dull the paint.
How often: Every 2-4 years.
Signs you need soft washing for metal 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
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.
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'
Our process for soft washing for metal 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
Soft Washing for Metal Roofs cost in your area
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 metal roofs
Local soft washing for metal roofs for your area
We provide soft washing for metal roofs across all 50 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Pick your state to see local details:
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Alabama
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Alaska
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Arizona
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Arkansas
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in California
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Colorado
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Connecticut
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Delaware
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in District of Columbia
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Florida
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Georgia
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Hawaii
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Idaho
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Illinois
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Indiana
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Iowa
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Kansas
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Kentucky
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Louisiana
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Maine
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Maryland
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Massachusetts
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Michigan
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Minnesota
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Mississippi
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Missouri
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Montana
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Nebraska
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Nevada
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in New Hampshire
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in New Jersey
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in New Mexico
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in New York
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in North Carolina
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in North Dakota
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Ohio
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Oklahoma
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Oregon
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Pennsylvania
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Puerto Rico
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Rhode Island
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in South Carolina
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in South Dakota
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Tennessee
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Texas
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Utah
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Vermont
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Virginia
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Washington
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in West Virginia
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Wisconsin
- Soft Washing for Metal Roofs in Wyoming
Soft Washing for Metal Roofs: frequently asked questions
How much does soft washing for metal roofs cost?
Soft Washing for Metal 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 metal roofs?
For metal roofs: soft wash, typically under 500 PSI. What we avoid: high pressure at the seams and fasteners, and abrasive or strongly acidic cleaners that dull the paint. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is soft washing for metal 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 metal 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.