Soft Washing Services
Gentle, effective exterior cleaning for roofs, siding, and delicate surfaces across the Ark-La-Tex region. Based in Marshall, TX.
What Is Soft Washing & Why Does It Matter
Soft washing is a low-pressure cleaning method that uses specialized biodegradable solutions to safely remove mold, mildew, algae, bacteria, and other organic stains from exterior surfaces. Unlike traditional pressure washing, which relies on high water pressure to blast away grime, soft washing kills biological growth at the root with cleaning solutions applied at low pressure — typically no more than what comes from a garden hose. This approach is essential for surfaces that high pressure would damage, including asphalt shingles, vinyl siding, stucco, painted wood, and natural stone.
At Ark-La-Tex Pressure Pros, we have refined our soft washing process over years of working in the unique climate conditions found across East Texas and Northwest Louisiana. The Ark-La-Tex region sits in a humid subtropical zone where temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees and humidity stays above 70 percent for months at a time. These conditions create a perfect breeding ground for algae, lichen, and black mold on every exterior surface. Standard pressure washing removes the visible stain but leaves the root system intact, allowing regrowth within weeks. Our soft wash solutions penetrate surface pores, kill the organisms completely, and leave behind a residual barrier that slows regrowth for months.
Based in Marshall, Texas, our team serves a 60-mile radius that covers Harrison County, Caddo Parish, Bossier Parish, Gregg County, and Rusk County. We bring commercial-grade soft wash equipment to every job, including dedicated solution tanks, low-pressure application systems, and metered proportioning devices that ensure the correct solution strength for each surface type. Whether you need your roof, siding, fence, or patio cleaned safely, Ark-La-Tex Pressure Pros has the equipment, training, and local knowledge to deliver results that last.
Surfaces We Soft Wash
Roofing
Asphalt shingles, tile, metal, and cedar shake. Removes black streaks from Gloeocapsa magma algae without lifting shingles or voiding manufacturer warranties.
Siding
Vinyl, Hardie board, wood, stucco, and brick veneer. Our low-pressure approach prevents water intrusion behind siding panels and protects paint finishes.
Fencing & Decks
Wood, vinyl, and composite fencing and decking. Soft washing preserves stain and sealant coatings while removing green algae, mildew, and pollen buildup.
Outdoor Living
Pergolas, gazebos, outdoor kitchens, and screen enclosures. These structures collect organic growth quickly in our humid climate and need gentle cleaning.
Natural Stone
Flagstone, limestone, and natural stone walkways. High pressure can chip and pit natural stone — soft washing cleans safely while preserving the stone texture.
Commercial Buildings
Storefronts, office exteriors, and multi-unit properties. Our soft wash keeps building facades clean while protecting signage, awnings, and decorative elements.
Soft Wash vs. Pressure Wash: Know the Difference
Soft Washing
- Low pressure (under 500 PSI)
- Cleaning solution does the work
- Kills biological growth at the root
- Results last 4-6x longer
- Safe for all delicate surfaces
- No risk of water intrusion
- Ideal for roofs, siding, wood, stucco
Pressure Washing
- High pressure (1,500-4,000 PSI)
- Water force does the work
- Removes surface stains only
- Growth can return in weeks
- Can damage delicate materials
- Can force water behind siding
- Best for concrete, brick, and stone
At Ark-La-Tex Pressure Pros, we use both methods and always select the right approach for the specific surface. Many jobs combine soft washing for upper surfaces like roofs and siding with pressure washing for hardscapes like driveways and sidewalks. This hybrid approach delivers the best results while protecting every surface on your property. Call us at (318) 401-2772 and we will assess your property and recommend the right method for each surface.
Our Soft Wash Process
1. Inspection
We inspect every surface, identify growth types, and select the correct cleaning solution concentration.
2. Protection
Plants, landscaping, and delicate features are pre-rinsed and protected before any solution is applied.
3. Application
Biodegradable cleaning solution is applied at low pressure. We allow proper dwell time for maximum effectiveness.
4. Rinse & Review
Surfaces are gently rinsed, landscaping is post-rinsed, and we walk through results with you before leaving.
Soft Washing FAQs
Is soft washing safe for my roof?
Yes, soft washing is the manufacturer-recommended cleaning method for asphalt shingle roofs. Major shingle manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning specify low-pressure cleaning to preserve granule integrity. High-pressure washing can strip granules, void warranties, and shorten roof life. Our soft wash kills algae, moss, and lichen at the root while protecting your shingles. We also follow ARMA (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association) guidelines on every roof cleaning job.
Will soft washing damage my plants and landscaping?
No. We take careful precautions to protect all landscaping during every soft wash job. Before applying any cleaning solution, we thoroughly pre-rinse all plants, shrubs, and garden beds surrounding the work area. We use biodegradable, plant-safe cleaning solutions that break down quickly. After the job is complete, we post-rinse all landscaping again. In our years of operation, we have never had a plant loss from our soft washing process.
How long do soft wash results last?
Soft wash results typically last four to six times longer than standard pressure washing. Because the cleaning solution kills biological growth at the root level rather than just removing the surface stain, regrowth takes much longer to return. In the Ark-La-Tex climate, most homeowners see 12-18 months of clean results on roofs and 18-24 months on siding. Environmental factors like tree shade coverage and proximity to water can affect longevity. We recommend scheduling soft wash maintenance annually for properties with heavy tree coverage.
What are the black streaks on my roof?
Those black streaks are caused by Gloeocapsa magma, a type of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles. It is extremely common in the Ark-La-Tex region due to our warm, humid climate. The dark streaks are actually a protective pigment the algae produces to shield itself from UV rays. Beyond being unsightly, this growth holds moisture against your shingles, accelerating deterioration and reducing your roof’s lifespan. Soft washing is the only safe, effective way to remove it.
Do you offer soft washing for commercial properties?
Absolutely. We provide commercial soft washing for storefronts, office buildings, medical facilities, churches, and multi-unit residential properties across the Ark-La-Tex region. We work around your business hours to minimize disruption and can set up quarterly or semi-annual maintenance schedules. Commercial properties benefit especially from soft washing because it maintains a professional appearance without the risk of damage from high-pressure equipment. Contact us at (318) 401-2772 for a free commercial estimate.
Ready for a Gentle, Effective Clean?
Call Ark-La-Tex Pressure Pros for a free soft washing estimate. We will assess your surfaces and recommend the right approach for lasting results.
Ark-La-Tex Pressure Pros provides professional soft washing services throughout the Ark-La-Tex region. Based in Marshall, TX, we serve homeowners and businesses in Shreveport, Bossier City, Longview, Kilgore, Henderson, and all communities within a 60-mile radius. Our services also include house pressure washing, roof cleaning, driveway cleaning, concrete cleaning and sealing, and more. Visit our gallery to see recent results, or contact us for a free estimate.