How Often Should You Soft Wash Your House
If you own a home in Tallahassee, Florida, you already know how quickly mold, mildew, and algae can build up on your siding. Our hot, humid climate creates the perfect environment for organic growth — especially on shaded homes in areas like Buck Lake, Ox Bottom, Bradfordville, Killearn, Southwood, and North Tallahassee.
At B & T Pressure Washing, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“How often should I soft wash my house?”
The short answer: Most homes in Tallahassee should be soft washed every 12–18 months, but some need it more often depending on location, shade, and moisture.
Let’s break it down 👇
Before
After
Why Soft Washing Is So Important in Tallahassee
Tallahassee’s climate is different from most parts of the country. We deal with:
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High humidity almost year-round
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Heavy rainfall
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Warm temperatures
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Lots of tree cover and shade
- Pollen and organic debris
These conditions cause mold, algae, mildew, and bacteria to grow quickly on:
- Vinyl siding
- Hardie board
- Stucco
- Soffits and fascia
- Gutters
Soft washing safely removes this growth at the root — unlike pressure washing, which can damage siding and force water behind walls.
Before
After
Recommended Soft Washing Schedule for Tallahassee Homes
🏠 Most homes: Every 12-18 months
If your home gets decent sun and airflow, an annual or 18-month soft wash is ideal.
🌳 Shaded homes: Every 9–12 months
Homes surrounded by trees or that stay damp longer (common in Buck Lake and Ox Bottom) may need more frequent cleaning.
🧱 North-facing walls: Every 6–12 months
North sides stay wet the longest and grow mold the fastest. Many customers clean just this side yearly.
🏡 Homes near water or heavy woods: Every 6–9 months
Properties near lakes, ponds, or wooded areas will see growth much faster.
Signs Your House Needs Soft Washing
If you notice any of these, it’s time to call a professional:
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Green or black streaks on siding
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Dark buildup on soffits
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Spider webs and insect residue
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Dingy or dull appearance
- Mold smell near exterior walls
- HOA warnings or notices
Before
After
Why You Should NOT Wait Too Long
Letting organic growth sit too long can:
- Permanently stain siding
- Cause paint to fail
- Lead to wood rot
- Attract insects
- Reduce your home’s value
- Cost more to fix later
Routine soft washing is preventative maintenance, not just cosmetic cleaning.
Why Soft Washing Is Safer Than Pressure Washing
At B & T Pressure Washing, we use a professional soft washing system that:
- Uses low pressure (similar to a garden hose)
- Safely kills mold and algae at the root
- Protects siding, paint, and seals
- Keeps your home cleaner longer
High-pressure washing can damage:
- Vinyl siding
- Hardie board
- Window seals
- Caulking
- Stucco
- Wood trim
That’s why soft washing is the recommended method by manufacturers and insurance companies.
Local Tallahassee Neighborhoods We Soft Wash Regularly
We provide house soft washing services in:
- Buck Lake
- Ox Bottom Manor
- Bradfordville
- Killearn
- Southwood
- Piney Z
- Golden Eagle
- Summerbrooke
- Midtown Tallahassee
- North Tallahassee
- Crawfordville & Wakulla County
Schedule Roof Cleaning in Tallahassee Today
If your roof has black streaks or visible algae, now is the time to act. Professional roof cleaning can restore your roof’s appearance and protect your investment.
📞 Contact B & T Pressure Washing today for a free roof cleaning estimate in Tallahassee, FL.
