Some of the most beautiful homes in Northeast Ohio are also the easiest to damage. The Tudor and Colonial Revival homes of Shaker Heights and the Victorian and Greek Revival century homes in Chagrin Falls were built with materials that do not hold up to a high-pressure blast.
If your home is older, here is what to know before anyone points a pressure washer at it.
Why high pressure is risky on older homes
- Brick and mortar. Older, softer mortar can erode under high pressure, which opens joints to water.
- Stucco and half-timbering. Pressure can force water behind stucco and into wood framing.
- Old paint. Century-old painted wood can strip, splinter or gouge.
- Original windows. Glazing putty and leaded glass can be damaged by direct spray.
What soft washing does differently
Soft washing uses low pressure, about the strength of a garden hose, combined with biodegradable cleaning solutions. The solution does the work by killing the algae, mildew and grime that cause the green and black staining. It is then rinsed away gently.
The result is a cleaner home that stays clean longer, without the wear that comes from repeated pressure washing.
Why historic homes stain so quickly
Mature trees are part of what makes these neighborhoods special, but shade and humidity keep siding, brick and roofs damp. That is exactly what algae and mildew need to grow, which is why the north and shaded sides of older homes turn green first.
What about slate and tile roofs?
Asphalt shingle roofs can be soft washed safely. Slate and clay tile roofs need to be inspected first. We only clean them when it is safe for the roof, and some historic roofs are best left to a specialist. A good contractor will tell you honestly which is which.
Questions to ask before you hire anyone
- Do you use soft washing or high pressure on siding, brick and stucco?
- Will you test-spot a small area first?
- How do you protect landscaping, plants and pets?
- Are you fully insured?
What to expect on cleaning day
- Walk-around. We look at the siding, trim, windows and roof and note anything fragile, such as loose paint or cracked glazing.
- Test spot. We clean a small, out-of-sight area first to confirm the result is safe for that surface.
- Protect plants. Landscaping is pre-wet and rinsed again afterward.
- Low-pressure application. The cleaning solution is applied gently and given time to work.
- Gentle rinse. Everything is rinsed at low pressure, top to bottom.
Brick, stone and stucco each need their own approach
Brick and stone
Historic brick is often softer than modern brick, and the original lime-based mortar is softer still. Soft washing removes algae, soot and grime without eroding either. If mortar is already crumbling, cleaning will not fix it, and we will point it out so you can plan repairs.
Stucco and half-timbering
Stucco is porous, and the wood in Tudor half-timbering can be fragile. Low pressure keeps water from being driven into the wall and avoids lifting paint from the timbers.
Painted wood siding and trim
Old paint layers can be brittle. Soft washing cleans the surface without stripping it. If paint is already peeling, washing first is a good step before any repainting.
Keeping a historic home clean longer
- Trim branches that touch the roof or siding so surfaces can dry.
- Keep gutters clear so water does not spill down the walls.
- Schedule a gentle wash every 12 to 18 months instead of waiting for heavy buildup.
- Clean walkways and patios under trees so moss does not spread.
Frequently asked questions
Will soft washing remove black streaks on brick?
In most cases, yes. Black and green staining on brick is usually algae, mildew or soot, which soft washing removes. Rust or mineral stains may need a different treatment.
Is it safe for my landscaping?
Yes. We use biodegradable solutions and rinse plants before and after cleaning.
How much does it cost?
House washing is $0.21 per square foot plus a 5% transaction fee. You can get an estimate on our website or book online.
Serving historic neighborhoods on the east side
We clean homes throughout Shaker Heights, Chagrin Falls, Beachwood, Solon, University Heights and Cleveland Heights. House washing is $0.21 per square foot with no hidden fees.
About the Author
Michael Betts is the founder of ALWAYS B.I.G. Power Washing Pros, an owner-operated exterior cleaning company serving homeowners and businesses across Cleveland and Northeast Ohio with house washing, roof cleaning, gutter services, window cleaning and concrete cleaning.
Call or text (216) 202-8264, email michael@ohiopowerwashingpros.com, or read more homeowner guides in the Curb Appeal Report.