Softwashing in Adelaide & the Adelaide Hills
Softwashing is a low-pressure cleaning method for delicate exterior surfaces. Specialised treatments target mould, moss, algae, and lichen at the source, followed by a controlled rinse that helps protect weatherboards, roofs, render, cladding, and surrounding landscaping.
Moss and Mould Removal
A careful clean for safer, better-maintained exteriors
Adelaide’s changing weather and shaded areas can encourage mould, moss, algae, and lichen to grow on roofs, walls, driveways, paths, fences, and other outdoor surfaces.
South Australian Hydrowash Co. assesses each surface before choosing the appropriate method. Softwashing uses low-pressure application and specialised, biodegradable treatments where suitable, reducing the need for aggressive pressure on delicate materials.
The process is suitable for residential and commercial properties across Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills. Surrounding plants and vulnerable surfaces are considered during preparation and cleaning.
Request a free quote for tailored advice about your property.
How Our Softwashing Works
We begin with a full walk-around of the property to identify the surfaces being cleaned and any areas needing special care. We check roof materials, render, siding, masonry, concrete, pavers, windows, seals, fixtures, drainage points, and nearby landscaping.
Before applying any solution, we protect the work area. Electrical outlets and vulnerable fittings are covered where required, outdoor decorations and movable items are relocated, and surrounding plants and foliage are pre-soaked with fresh water. This preparation helps shield adjacent areas and allows the cleaning work to proceed in a controlled way.
Step 1: Site Inspection & Property Protection
Step 2: Custom Chemical Solution Blending
Every surface responds differently, so we select a low-pressure solution to suit the material and the type of contamination. Where appropriate, this may combine eco-friendly surfactants with (Sodium Hypochlorite) dilution through a professional mixing manifold, designed to help break down mould, algae, moss, mildew, and other organic growth.
The solution is selected with the surface in mind, including siding, render, roof coatings, concrete, masonry, and other exterior materials. Heritage, porous, weathered, or delicate surfaces receive additional consideration, and a test patch may be recommended where suitability needs to be confirmed.
Step 3: Low-Pressure Bottom-Up Application
Using professional low-pressure spray equipment, operating below 500 PSI where the equipment and surface allow, we apply the softwash solution from the bottom up. Working in a controlled pattern helps achieve even coverage across the surface and reduces visible streaking.
The low-pressure method is designed to clean without the force of conventional high-pressure blasting. It helps reduce the risk of driving water beneath cladding or damaging vulnerable finishes, while allowing the treatment to reach areas affected by organic growth.
Step 4: Controlled Dwell Time
After application, the solution remains on the surface for a calculated dwell period. As a general guide, this may be around 15–30 minutes, but the actual time depends on the product requirements, surface material, weather, temperature, and severity of growth.
This dwell stage gives the treatment time to work on algae, moss, mildew, and other organic contamination at the source rather than simply removing surface dirt. We monitor the area throughout and prevent the solution from drying where required.
Step 5: High-Volume, Gentle Rinse & Final Inspection
Once the dwell period is complete, we thoroughly rinse the exterior from the top down using fresh water and a gentle, controlled flow suited to the surface. This removes loosened contamination and remaining cleaning solution while taking care around seals, joints, windows, roof components, landscaping, and drainage points.
We finish by post-rinsing surrounding landscaping where required and completing a final walk-around. The property is checked for consistent results, remaining areas of growth, and any spots needing further attention before the work is complete.
Professional Softwashing for Exterior Surfaces
Remove mould, moss, algae, and lichen with a surface-appropriate cleaning approach.