Soft Washing in Des Moines
Low-pressure, biodegradable, no damage.
Soft washing is a low-pressure cleaning method that uses biodegradable solutions to kill algae, mold, and mildew at the root — safe for siding, stucco, roofs, and painted surfaces. JBL Exterior Pros provides soft washing throughout central Iowa, with results lasting 18–24 months.
- Result longevity
- 18–24 months
- Pressure used
- <100 PSI (less than a garden hose)
- Method
- Chemistry-first, low-pressure rinse
Soft Washing, in detail.
Soft washing is the only safe method for siding, stucco, roofs, and painted surfaces. We use biodegradable cleaners at low pressure that kill algae, mold, and mildew at the source — not just blast the surface.
- Siding, stucco, brick, and painted exteriors
- Roofs (gentle algae and moss removal)
- Fences, decks, painted railings
- Biodegradable solution, landscaping protected
- Spot-treated stains where needed
Three steps, no surprises.
- 01
Walk-through and surface assessment
We identify what needs soft-washing versus power-washing, and which surfaces need extra care (painted trim, stained cedar, copper fixtures).
- 02
Pre-treat and apply
We pre-rinse landscaping, then apply the solution at low pressure. It dwells, kills the growth, and rinses away clean. No chemical runoff onto your beds.
- 03
Final rinse and document
Property-wide rinse, photo documentation of finished work, and a walk-through with you before we leave.
Soft Washing, on the job.
Frequently asked soft washing questions
01What's the difference between soft wash and power wash?
Power washing uses high pressure — right for concrete, brick, and hard surfaces. Soft washing uses low pressure plus a biodegradable cleaner — the only safe method for siding, stucco, painted surfaces, and roofs.02Is the solution safe for plants and pets?
Yes. We use biodegradable, plant-safe cleaners and pre-rinse all landscaping before and after. We'll ask you to keep pets indoors during application.03How long does it last?
A proper soft wash kills algae and mildew at the root — most surfaces stay clean 18 to 24 months. Annual members get scheduled re-treatments before re-growth shows.04How much does soft washing a house cost in Iowa?
Pricing depends on square footage, surface mix (siding, stucco, brick, painted wood), and growth severity. We quote in person after walking the property — no upcharges later.05Will soft washing kill my lawn?
Landscape protection is built into the process. We pre-rinse all plants and beds before applying any solution, tarp sensitive species where needed, and rinse again after the job. The biocide is biodegradable and breaks down within hours. Tell us about any species you're particularly concerned about during the walk-through.06Can it remove old paint or stains from cedar?
Soft washing kills the organic growth (algae, mildew) but won't strip intact paint. For chemical paint removal you'd want a different process. For cedar shake darkening caused by mildew, soft washing usually restores the original color — but heavily weathered cedar may need refinishing afterward.07Why not just power-wash everything?
Power washing siding strips paint, damages caulking and seals around windows, and forces water behind the cladding — which can cause hidden rot. Most siding warranties explicitly require soft-wash methods. The pressure that's right for concrete is wrong for vinyl, wood, stucco, fiber cement, and painted surfaces.08Does it smell? Can I be home?
There's a mild chlorine odor during application (similar to a freshly-cleaned pool deck) that dissipates within 30–60 minutes. You can be home. Keep windows closed during the work and pets indoors. Outdoor entertaining is fine the same evening.
Ready for soft washing?
A JBL rep walks your property in person within one business day. Honest pricing, real recommendations, no obligation.