When we handle soft washing for tile 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. With tile roofs, the right approach is soft wash.
Method and pressure
Cleaning solution: A soft wash solution; moss and lichen may need a second application.
What to know about cleaning tile roofs
Clay and concrete tile roofs grow algae, moss and lichen, especially in shade. Tiles are brittle when walked on, so roof access is planned carefully and the roof is cleaned mostly with solution.
Avoid: High pressure, which erodes the surface of concrete tile, and stepping on the middle of tiles.
How often: Every 3-5 years.
Signs you need soft washing for tile 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
What you can do yourself
- 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'
What happens on the day
- 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 tile 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 tile roofs
Serving your area and nearby towns
We provide soft washing for tile roofs across all 50 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Pick your state to see local details:
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Alabama
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Alaska
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Arizona
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Arkansas
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in California
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Colorado
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Connecticut
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Delaware
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in District of Columbia
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Florida
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Georgia
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Hawaii
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Idaho
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Illinois
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Indiana
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Iowa
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Kansas
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Kentucky
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Louisiana
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Maine
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Maryland
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Massachusetts
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Michigan
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Minnesota
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Mississippi
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Missouri
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Montana
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Nebraska
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Nevada
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in New Hampshire
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in New Jersey
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in New Mexico
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in New York
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in North Carolina
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in North Dakota
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Ohio
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Oklahoma
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Oregon
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Pennsylvania
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Puerto Rico
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Rhode Island
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in South Carolina
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in South Dakota
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Tennessee
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Texas
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Utah
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Vermont
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Virginia
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Washington
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in West Virginia
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Wisconsin
- Soft Washing for Tile Roofs in Wyoming
Soft Washing for Tile Roofs: frequently asked questions
How much does soft washing for tile roofs cost?
Soft Washing for Tile 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 tile roofs?
For tile roofs: soft wash; low pressure only on sound concrete tile. What we avoid: high pressure, which erodes the surface of concrete tile, and stepping on the middle of tiles. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is soft washing for tile 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 tile roofs?
Every 3-5 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.