Most homeowners notice the big stuff: dark green patches running down the siding or thick moss on the north wall. But buildup often starts subtly. Look for a chalky or dull finish on painted surfaces, faint streaking below window sills, or a slight texture change on vinyl where algae is starting to grip. These are early signs that a house washing will fix quickly and inexpensively. If the growth has turned black or the siding is visibly soft in areas, the damage may already be progressing. House washing at that stage still helps, but catching it earlier protects more of the surface.
Our soft wash process starts with pre-treating the siding. We apply a professional-grade cleaning solution that is safe for plants, pets, and painted surfaces. The solution does the heavy lifting, breaking down algae, moss, and mildew while we protect nearby landscaping, outdoor fixtures, and electrical components. Once the solution has had time to work, we rinse at low pressure from top to bottom. We go over problem areas as many times as needed until the result is right, not just acceptable.
We need access to at least one outdoor water source and clear pathways around the perimeter of the home. Most single-family homes in Duncan and Cowichan Bay have what we need already. For strata properties or homes with restricted access, let us know when requesting your quote. We also offer full exterior packages for strata buildings — details are available on our services page.
We do not consider a job done until you have had a chance to review the results. After every house washing, our crew walks the property with you and checks the areas that collect the most buildup: north-facing walls, soffits, window frames, and the trim around the roofline. If anything needs a second pass, we handle it before we pack up.
After the crew leaves, give the siding a look once it has fully dried. Pay attention to:
Soffits and fascia. These areas collect mildew and are easy to overlook from ground level. After a house washing in Chemainus or Cowichan Bay, soffits are often one of the first places new growth returns.
Window frames and sills. Algae frequently sits in the grooves around window frames. Our process cleans frames and sills along with the glass on window cleaning jobs, but a house washing focuses on the siding itself. Let us know if you want windows included.
In most parts of Canada, homeowners can get away with a house washing every two to three years. Duncan's Cowichan Valley climate changes that math. Annual rainfall combined with a long growing season for moss and algae means buildup returns faster than it does in drier regions. For most homes in Duncan, Cobble Hill, and Shawnigan Lake, a house washing every 12 to 18 months keeps growth from reaching the stage where it starts causing damage. For properties with heavy tree canopy overhead, or north-facing walls that stay shaded all day, annual house washing is the smarter choice. Moss does not need much to establish itself, and once it roots into siding material, it takes more effort to remove.
No. Our soft wash method uses low pressure, so there is no risk of stripping paint or forcing water behind siding panels. The cleaning solution we use is safe for wood, painted surfaces, and fiber cement. High-pressure washing is reserved for hard surfaces like concrete and stone.
Most single-family homes in Duncan take two to four hours. Homes with heavier buildup, larger footprints, or multiple stories may take longer. We will give you a realistic time estimate when we provide your quote.
Yes, and we recommend it. A clean exterior improves curb appeal, and the washing process sometimes reveals siding issues that are worth addressing before a buyer’s inspector finds them. Many sellers in Cowichan Bay and Maple Bay book a house washing as part of their pre-listing preparation.
House washing covers exterior siding, soffits, fascia, and trim. Roof moss treatment is a separate service. Many customers book both together. Ask about our full exterior packages when you request a quote.
You do not need to be home as long as we have access to an outdoor water source and clear pathways around the home. Many Duncan homeowners are at work during their appointment. Just confirm access details when you book.
Rain does not affect the results. The cleaning solution is fully rinsed during the washing process, and the cleaned siding is not harmed by rainfall. In fact, light rain after a house washing is completely normal in Duncan and has no effect on the outcome.
