Determining the correct soft wash mix can be challenging with any soft washing job. Your client’s home is unique and will require a special mix. Different chemicals and detergents give different results for different stains, invasive molds, and algae. Many surfaces also require specific products. Experimenting with chemicals is tempting but this can give mixed results and possibly cause damage to the client’s home or business. Let’s dig into what works.
GETTING THE RIGHT HOUSE WASH MIX
When it comes to a good soft wash mix there are three main parts. Water, sodium hypochlorite (S.H.), and surfactant (Detergent). Water dilutes the chemicals so you can get the correct mix. Sodium hypochlorite breaks down organics like mold and algae and helps to loosen up particulates. The surfactant acts as a thickening agent the helps your mix to stick to the surface you are cleaning thus increasing dwell time. Surfactants also help get rid of streaks, water spots and helps mask the odor caused by the sodium hypochlorite. The ratio of water, S.H. and surfactant depend on how much buildup there is and what surface you are cleaning.
WHAT IS THE BEST SURFACTANT?
When creating your house wash mix picking the right surfactant is important. At Billy Goat, we like to use Southeast Soft Wash surfactants. They offer a variety of colors and fragrances. We prefer Southern Swag. It adheres well and the blue color helps you to make sure you have good coverage. Other surfactants work ok, but for us, Southeast Soft Washes are the best.
SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE AND YOUR HOUSE WASH MIX
When it comes to Sodium Hypochlorite 12.5 percent is the best way to go for your soft wash mix. This will give options when it comes to your house wash mix. Finding 12.5 percent can be tuff if you’re not buying in bulk (55 Gal). If you are working on smaller projects or you don’t have good storage available, we recommend using Pool Essentials Chlorinating Liquid. It is a good affordable 10 percent S.H. We recommend starting with a 1 percent mix and working your way up to find what you need for your project.
DO IT YOUR SELF?
If you are a home or business owner and feel that soft washing is a bit too much to deal with Billy Goat is Always ready to help. Feel free to contact us for a free estimate.