Helping Businesses Rebuild Clean After Hurricane Helene:

Pressure Washing vs. Soft Washing with Sodium Hypochlorite

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, many local businesses are left facing not only storm damage but also an overwhelming mess — mud, mold, mildew, algae, and debris coating building exteriors, walkways, and common areas. As part of the recovery process, exterior cleaning plays a critical role in restoring safety, appearance, and sanitation. But not all cleaning methods are created equal. Knowing the difference between pressure washing and soft washing with sodium hypochlorite can make all the difference in protecting your property and getting the job done right.

Pressure washing uses high-pressure water (often 2,500–4,000 PSI) to blast away dirt and debris. It's great for durable surfaces like concrete sidewalks, driveways, and some brickwork. But on siding, roofs, signage, or delicate trim, that much force can cause damage — stripping paint, denting materials, or forcing water behind siding where it doesn’t belong. Pressure washing is effective for surface-level dirt, but it doesn’t sanitize or address organic growth like mold or algae, which are common after storms due to trapped moisture.

Soft washing, on the other hand, combines a gentle low-pressure application with a powerful cleaning solution — most commonly a diluted mix of sodium hypochlorite (the active ingredient in bleach). This method allows us to safely treat siding, roofs, awnings, and wood surfaces without risk of damage. The sodium hypochlorite not only removes visible stains, but kills mold, mildew, algae, and bacteria at the root, helping to prevent regrowth and ensure your space is truly clean and sanitized.

For businesses dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, soft washing is often the better choice for exterior walls, signage, outdoor seating areas, and rooftops. It helps ensure that your property isn't just cleaned — it’s disinfected and made safe for customers and employees again. At Altitude, we use commercial-grade soft washing equipment and industry-approved cleaning mixes to help you restore your space quickly, safely, and with care for your building materials and landscaping.

Let us help you take the next step toward recovery — with professional cleaning services designed to protect your property and your people.