How to Choose a Soft Wash System
Soft washing is the process of using the correct cleaning chemicals to kill organic matter like Gloesocapsa Magma algae (the black streaks on roofs), moss, mold, and lichen from roofs, siding, and other exterior surfaces, then rinsing with low pressure, typically 500 psi or less.
The key is to get the correct soft washing mix on the surface so it can do the cleaning, not the water pressure. Getting that solution on the surface can be done a variety of ways depending on your equipment, budget, and how often and how much you plan to clean.
Let's take a look:
Soft Washing Sprayers
When soft washing first became popular, chemicals were usually applied using a small 12-volt pump-up sprayer. These very basic sprayers were not designed to handle corrosive chemicals such as bleach, so they wore out quickly. They also could not shoot very far. Mixes typically had to be made much stronger than what is common today because they put out such low volumes.
Today's sprayers have improved, and the air diaphragm ProTool Power Sprayer is the best of the best. Here's why:- Designed to handle sodium hypochlorite and other harsh chemicals
- Shoots up to 30 feet high from the ground
- No need to constantly pump while spraying
- Interchangeable nozzles allow you to get the spray pattern you need
- Steady, controllable flow
- Up to 90 psi pressure
- No electricity of heavy batteries
- Lightweight
- Long lasting
- Versatile -- can be used for a variety of stain removal products
The ProTool Power Sprayer is a great option for smaller soft washing jobs, or if you are wanting to try out soft washing before committing to a bigger system.
For bigger projects or the more serious contractor, we recommend using the ProTool Sprayer as an accessory, but not as a replacement for a more powerful system like the ProTool Clever or Batch Pro.
X-Jet M5 Nozzle
Yes, you can use a pressure washer for soft washing by adding the X-Jet M5 Nozzle. The X-Jet lets you shoot your chemical mix up to 30 feet in the air safely from the ground. The M5 variable nozzle also lets you change the nozzle pattern with the simple twist of a wrist. Go from a zero degree to shoot chemicals on the roof, then immediately water surrounding plants with water only by twisting to a 60 degree fan pattern.
While the X-Jet is a good way to start if you already own a pressure washer, we really recommend getting a separate soft washing system if you are going to be doing big jobs or frequent projects.
ProTool Soft Wash 12V Metering Skid
The ProTool Soft Wash skid was designed to revolutionize the soft washing process. This comprehensive system includes an 80 gallon SH tank and is equipped with precision metering valves, making it the perfect solution for professionals in the soft washing industry.
Here's why:
- It is ready to go straight onto a skid and into your truck, it offers a hassle-free setup process, making it a convenient and efficient solution for professional cleaning tasks.
- Powered by dual 12v pumps, the ProTool Metering Skid ensures reliable and consistent performance for soft washing applications.
- With an 80-gallon SH tank and a 7-gallon surfactant tank, it offers ample capacity for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills..
- The inclusion of a reel stand protects internal components while the aluminum reel and 200ft clear braid hose provide convenience and ease of use.
- Featuring a precise metering system, this skid ensures accurate chemical mixing for optimal cleaning results.
50 Gal. Economy Sprayer System
A super easy and affordable soft washing system constructed around a super strong polyethylene 52 gallon rectangle tank. Simply premix your batch of SH and Sticky Surfactant (or other mixes), then apply.
- Constructed around a super strong polyethylene 54 gallon rectangle tank
- Reinforced tank walls provide a sturdy spraying platform and mount for the reel
- Mounted atop is one Titan aluminum and stainless 12” manual U-Frame hose reel.
- The reel is loaded with 150 feet of food grade clear-braid hose rated at 200 psi, plus a ball valve gun, and spray tips.
- Includes a 12 volt, 5 gpm high pressure spraying pump, tinned marine grade wiring and marine toggle switch