Everything you need to know about Soft Wash roof cleaning.
Soft Wash is a low-pressure cleaning method that uses a mix of sodium hypochlorite (SH) and specialized surfactant to eliminate organisms at the root — algae, moss, lichens and black streaks — without ever damaging your shingles.
High pressure strips protective granules from shingles, reduces their lifespan, can void the manufacturer's warranty, and only treats the surface without eliminating organism roots. Soft Wash with SH treats in depth and provides lasting results.
We use sodium hypochlorite (SH — commonly known as concentrated bleach) diluted to the appropriate concentration based on the roof's condition, combined with a professional surfactant specifically formulated for Soft Wash. This surfactant improves SH adhesion on the shingle and optimizes organism elimination.
No, if the process is properly executed — which is our absolute priority. Throughout the intervention, we continuously rinse the surrounding vegetation (shrubs, lawn, flowers, hedges) before, during and after application. Our protocol is designed to protect every element of your property.
Here is our 5-step protocol: (1) Complete inspection of the roof and surrounding vegetation. (2) Protection and pre-rinsing of all vegetation. (3) Controlled application of the SH + surfactant mix at low pressure. (4) Contact time based on conditions (temperature, humidity, soiling level). (5) Vegetation rinsing and post-intervention photo report.
A standard cleaning takes 2 to 5 hours depending on the area and condition of the roof. For very large properties or roofs with severe buildup, it can take a full day. Every contract is carefully planned — we never rush the work.
With our SH + surfactant treatment, results typically last 3 to 5 years depending on weather conditions, shade and the presence of nearby trees. SH eliminates organisms at the root — not just on the surface.
Yes. Low-pressure Soft Wash is the method recommended by most shingle manufacturers (including IKO, BP, Certainteed). High pressure, on the other hand, often voids the warranty. We can provide documentation to that effect.
Spring and fall are ideal. Avoid very sunny and hot days (SH dries too quickly and loses effectiveness). We can clean year-round in Quebec, except when temperatures are below 5°C.
Obvious signs: black or greenish streaks (Gloeocapsa magma), gray stains, visible presence of moss or lichens, roof that appears darker than when installed, granules in gutters.
No, your presence is not required. You just need access to an outdoor water source and pets should be inside during the intervention. We communicate before and after the work and send you photos.
Currently, we accept Interac e-transfers for the deposit (to paiements@aqua-net.ca) and final payment. We plan to add card payment (Stripe) soon.
Yes. We offer a 2-year guarantee on our work. If streaks or moss reappear within this time due to our treatment, we will return at no additional cost.
Yes, each intervention includes a complete visual inspection before and after treatment. We inform you of any detected issue (missing tile, defective flashing, etc.) and provide a photo report.
Moss is a plant that grows in thick carpets and retains moisture, causing rot. Lichens are a fungus-algae symbiosis much harder to eliminate — their rhizines embed themselves in the shingle. SH at adequate concentration is necessary to effectively eliminate both.
Our base rate varies by difficulty: $0.48/sq.ft (easy, low pitch), $0.57/sq.ft (medium, normal pitch) and $0.65/sq.ft (difficult, steep pitch). Minimum price is $399 before taxes. Adjustments apply based on roof condition, access and complexity. Use our online calculator for an instant estimate.
Light rain is not a problem — SH needs a contact time of at least 20 to 30 minutes before heavy rain. If significant precipitation is forecast within 2 hours of application, we postpone the intervention to a more favorable date at no charge.
Our services are primarily aimed at sloped roofs with asphalt shingles. For flat roofs (EPDM membrane, TPO, elastomeric), contact us for a personalized evaluation.
Absolutely. Our online calculator gives an excellent approximation in 60 seconds. For complex cases, send us photos by email. The confirmation visit takes place on the same day as the intervention.
We rinse gutters as part of our roofing interventions. For a complete gutter cleaning, contact us for a combined package at a great price.
All our work is covered by a 2-year guarantee. If results don't last, we return at no charge.
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