Frequently Asked Questions

It is easy to see on most homes while the growth is in process; there are dark black streaks, particularly on the north facing roof, though once the algae has fully taken over it is sometimes hard to tell. (It's never too late to remove.) The best place to look to find out if your roof is dirty is below metal roof jacks flashing and sky lights. There you should find lighter colored streaks or patches...that is the original color and that is what your roof will look like after we have completed our service!

The black stains are caused by cyanobacteria frequently referred to as algae (Gloeocapsa Magma) that feeds on organic material (Typically crushed limestone) now used in composition roof shingles. Algae growth on roofs occurs to varying degrees in all regions of the country, especially those subjected to warm humid conditions.

The Monterey and San Francisco Bay Areas have a particular problem with dirty roofs due to the consistent marine layer that often covers the coast and certain inland areas. Nearly all types of roofing are susceptible to staining and discoloration. It is, of course, most visible on lighter colored roofs and less visible on darker shades of roofing.

Yes. Pressure washing will dislodge the granules from the surface of the shingles and can scar the shingles causing more problems than you started with. Shingle manufacturers make it very clear that no pressure should be used to clean roofs. Although leaving the roof apparently clean looking, pressure washing alone does not kill the algae and the problem quickly returns. Tile roofs are also susceptible to damage from pressure, particularly the glaze finish and color pigment. The typical result is that the tile loses its color and is left far more porous. The new porous surface fosters the regrowth of algae, lichen, and moss. Removing the outer surface of roof tile using pressure also allows moisture to enter the tile which accelerates degradation.

As soon as you notice any signs of the shading or staining. The gloeocapsa magma bacteria is relatively easy to remove. Moss and lichen require much more time and effort. Even after the treatment, a small amount of dead moss will remain, left to decompose over time. The best time to treat a dirty roof is before signs of moss or lichen.

While their advertising is slick and their giddy actors happily say how wonderful the product is, reading the small print reveals:

• The product uses a strong chemical degreaser that breaks down petroleum-based products...like roof shingles.
• The product takes multiple applications over many months even over a year, (many of our customers complain that the products still never worked...)
• After application of the product (which shows no visible effect) you are directed to “simply rinse with... a pressure washer...” Exactly what the manufacturer directs you not to do.

There are many more reasons we feel you should avoid these roof cleaning products. Suffice it to say, we feel their sole interest in your roof is a monetary one.

Yes. Cleaning your roof can save you money in more ways than one...

• First, the algae and fungus that grows can cause premature roof granule loss, and shorten roof shingle life. So you save money because your roof lasts longer
• Second, when the algae turn your roof black, it becomes less reflective, and it retains heat; If you use an air conditioner it has to work harder to overcome the increased heat load, costing money in electric bills.
• Third, the aesthetics of cleaning your roof when it comes to selling your home can not only save you money but can make you money too.

It would be appreciated if you could do a few things the night before we come out to do the roof cleaning service:

• Move all lawn equipment, furniture and/or toys inside or away from the building.
• Keep all animals inside or out away from the home.
• Put any special plants out away from the house (if possible.)
• Park vehicles on street or in the garage.

Pretty much just clear everything out away from around the house. We will be rinsing areas around the building during the treatment.

We almost exclusively use equipment no louder than a whisper. Occasionally we use a compressor for large commercial projects.

Yes. We have many happy customers who would love to share their roof cleaning experience with you, Most likely, some in your neighborhood. Please feel free to request a list by e-mail.

Yes, we are properly insured and send proof of current insurance out with all proposals. All employees are covered by workers compensation insurance. We are registered with the DIR for governmental work and prevailing wage jobs.

The TOMI SteraMist™ designator is an effective system used for Binary Ionization Technology® or BIT™ decontamination technology. There are two types of SteraMist™ units available, the SteraMist™ Surface Unit and the SteraMist™ Environment System.

It's a solution available to the industrial, commercial, and residential sectors and is vital in combating pathogens and other contaminants. It's designed to clean and sanitize all types of facilities with little to no downtime. The mist approach makes it possible to access hard to reach areas and surfaces.

Initially designed in 2001 in response to the anthrax attacks, Binary Ionization Technology® has proven to be effective against other contaminants. It's a patented two-step process that activates and ionizes a 7.8% hydrogen peroxide solution. Simply put, a fog of fine mist is created and disinfects and decontaminates in targeted areas and large spaces.

SteraMist™ and BIT™ have proven field efficacy against a wide range of contaminants as per research that follows the strict EPA guidelines. Some examples of harmful microbial pathogens SteraMist™ neutralizes are Influenza A (H1N1), Stachybotrys chartarum, Human rhinovirus 164, and Bacillus atrophaeus - just to name a few. Feel free to contact us for a more detailed and extensive list.

One of the great things about this service is that there are minimal requirements to prepare for service. Plus, the quick turnaround time with little to no business disruption doesn't hurt either. There's no need to move, cover, or clean anything prior to the service. SteraMist™ reaches under, over, around, and behind obstacles. It will break down and eradicate bacterial, fungal, and viral contaminants from your environment. With a well-ventilated space, you may be able to return to production within minutes upon completion of the process.

We're easy to reach by phone at 831-275-1296 or follow the link at the bottom of the page for our online contact form. This will give us the opportunity to assess your specific needs and arrange for a service time. At this time, we're able to conduct assessments remotely to avoid person-to-person contact and maintain social distancing guidelines. From there, we'll be able to schedule your service to sanitize your facility and return you to production status quickly safely and effectively.

It’s generally a good idea to have your roof professionally washed at least once a year. This allows you to catch small problems before they develop into more serious issues later on. Additionally, regular soft washes keep your shingles in good shape, both physically and visually.

Although you can soft wash your roof at any time of the year, it’s often a good idea to do so at the beginning of the fall/end of the summer. This helps you prepare for increased rainfall and cold temperatures later on in the year.

This depends on a number of things, including where you live, how big the building is, and what services need to be performed. Typically, you can expect to spend between $300 and $600 in total.

To obtain a specific soft wash quote for your property, schedule a free consultation with Pacific Exterior today. We’ll assess your roof and give you an accurate price estimate for the services needed.

Yes - typically, we advise against leaving moss growth on your roof because it can cause significant damage to shingles and tiles. Additionally, moss traps high levels of moisture, which can then further compromise your roof.

Most professionals will agree that you should thoroughly wash your driveway at least once a year. This prevents grime from accumulating and fights the growth of bacteria, algae, and mold.

Yes - power washing concrete surfaces can result in their deterioration. That’s why we recommend soft washing driveways instead of using a high-pressure washer. This is less likely to degrade the concrete and can be done more frequently, without negative side effects.

Many substances can leave nasty stains on concrete driveways, but some of the worst stains come from antifreeze and oil leaks. These spots can be incredibly difficult to remove - but not impossible.

If you have stubborn stains on your driveway, contact the Pacific Exterior team to learn how you can remove them with an effective soft washing appointment.

The price of driveway cleaning services can vary depending on your location, the size of your driveway, and its current condition. Typically, you can expect to spend between $180 and $240.

For a more specific quote, contact Pacific Exterior. We’ll give you an accurate cost estimate based on your driveway and its needs.

Although you can clean your driveway with a simple garden hose, soap, and water, it’s not easy. The most stubborn stains will likely require a more professional approach.

Sealing your driveway helps protect it against future dirt and stains. This should be done every one to three years to preserve the life of your concrete driveway.

Sealing a driveway is usually far more expensive than simply washing it. Homeowners can typically expect to spend around $1.47 per square foot. That means if you have a 600 square foot driveway, you’ll likely spend around $800 to seal it.

A combination of regular washes (at least annually) and semi-regular sealing is the best way to protect your driveway from permanent stains and aging. Investing in these services can double or even triple the life expectancy of your driveway.

We recommend pressure washing (or soft washing) your concrete patios at least once a year. This removes grime and debris while also preventing future dirt buildup and mold/algae growth.

The most ideal times to clean your patio are during the spring and summer months. This is when pollen, algae, and mold growth is most prevalent. Power washing your patio can treat these issues, cleaning your outdoor space and reducing common allergy symptoms.

The cost of professionally cleaning a patio varies, depending on its size and current condition.

Typically, most homeowners pay between $200 and $400, but that price can increase if you also pressure wash decks, driveways, and other outdoor elements.

For a more accurate price estimate, contact Pacific Exterior today. We treat homes throughout Northern California and can give you a specific quote for your property’s needs.

Yes - power washing can be very harsh on concrete or stone patios. This is especially true if the incorrect tip or water temperature is used.

Washing a patio with a water pressure level that’s too high can cause:

Surface degradation
Permanent marks
Pitting
Joint sand damage
Before purchasing a power washer and cleaning the patio on your own, we recommend speaking with a professional to learn what level of wash you need and how you can safely tackle the job.

Better yet, talk to our team about the benefits of soft washing rather than harsh power washing.

Although water alone may remove some stains and dirt, you’ll need to use a cleaning agent to effectively remove bacteria, algae, mold, mildew, and other potentially harmful substances.

At Pacific Exterior, we use eco-friendly soaps and materials to wash our clients’ patios. Our goal isn’t just to make the patio look better - we want it to be truly clean and safe for homeowners to enjoy.

We recommend sealing concrete patios at least every two to three years. This keeps them looking newer and cleaner, but it also prevents the quick buildup of dirt and grime in the future. Sealers can also prevent concrete patios from cracking, pitting, and generally deteriorating.

This is often the most expensive part of professional cleaning a patio. Sealing concrete usually costs between $1,400 and $3,000, depending on the size of the space and the kind of sealer used.

Fortunately, you do not need to seal your concrete every time you wash your patio. Talk to our team about how often you should seal your concrete to preserve its appearance for many years to come.

You can use 3,000 PSI to wash patios, as well as driveways and sidewalks. Going beyond 3,500 PSI can damage concrete, so be wary of using heavy-duty commercial pressure washers on an average residential patio.

We typically recommend waiting at least a month to seriously wash a new concrete patio, driveway, or sidewalk. This gives the concrete time to cure and set properly.

If you notice slick spots from mold or algae, or you can smell the growth, then you need to schedule a professional patio washing appointment soon. This is the best way to tackle the problem before it spreads and causes more damage.

While high pressure washing with water alone may blast off unsightly bacteria or algae, it doesn’t tackle the root of the problem. Soft washing uses chemicals that kill algae, grime, and bacteria growth at the core so you don’t have to clean as often.

We recommend pressure washing your house at least once every two years. However, depending on where you live, you may need to wash more frequently. For example, many of our clients that live near the ocean require more frequent appointments to combat the buildup of salt on their homes.

Driveways, like houses, should be soft washed at least once every two years. This is the best way to prevent grime from building up and contributing to permanent stains. Although you can do light pressure washing on your own from time to time, a bi-annual professional appointment is highly recommended.

You can buy your own pressure washer and tackle the job without professional help. However, you may end up doing harm to your property. An expert will be better equipped to carefully wash your home without causing damage.

We price our soft washing services based on factors like how much work is needed, what type of service your home needs, and more. We always talk our clients through the pricing before any work gets done – so there are no unwelcome surprises.

Experts recommend pressure washing (or soft washing) your business’s property every few months. This prevents the buildup of dirt, algae, bacteria, and grime. You want to put your best foot forward with customers, and that starts with regular building cleaning and maintenance.

It’s a good idea to have your business property professionally washed between late spring and early fall. This ensures you’ve taken care of the worst dirt and stains before freezing temperatures and winter weather arrive.

The cost of professional pressure washing varies, depending on the size of the property and its current condition. A single job can run anywhere from $100 to $600.

To obtain a more accurate quote for your property’s needs, schedule a free consultation with Pacific Exterior. We’ll assess your commercial building and give you a price estimate for the services needed.

Yes. Many people do not realize that hash pressure washing can damage concrete driveways, patios, and other building elements. In addition, DIY cleaners often use the wrong tip or too much pressure, which can result in permanent damage.

Before power washing anything on your own, we highly recommend speaking with a professional. Learn what level of pressure you need, which chemicals to use, and how to safely conduct the cleaning.

Better yet, look into soft washing services that are equally as effective but less harsh on delicate or important surfaces. Speak to our team to learn more.