Should You Soft Wash Before A Property Inspection? Pros & Cons To Consider

Soft washing is a popular cleaning technique used to remove dirt, grime, and other debris from exterior surfaces such as walls, roofs, and driveways. Many property owners and potential buyers consider soft washing as a way to prepare a house for a pre-purchase inspection.

While it has its advantages, it also has its drawbacks. Here are the pros and cons of soft washing before a pre-purchase inspection:

Pros:

1. Improved Property Appearance

When it comes to preparing a property for a pre-purchase inspection, appearance can play a significant role in influencing the inspector’s perception.

This is where soft washing comes in as a valuable tool in improving the overall appearance of a property. By using low-pressure water and a specialized cleaning solution, soft washing can effectively remove dirt, stains, and grime from a variety of surfaces, including roofs, siding, and concrete.

As a result, the property can appear well-maintained and visually appealing, potentially increasing its value and attractiveness to buyers.

2. Reduces Health Hazards

Soft washing is not only beneficial in improving a property’s appearance. But it also reduces health hazards. Mold, mildew, and other allergens that may accumulate on surfaces  can pose a serious health risk to residents and even to potential buyers.

These harmful substances can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. Soft washing can effectively eliminate these hazards, providing a healthier living environment and a safer property.

In addition, soft washing is an eco-friendly way to clean a property. It uses less water and does not involve the use of harsh chemicals.

This means that it not only helps in protecting the health of residents and potential buyers, but also the environment. By choosing to soft wash a property, one can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the sustainability of the environment.

3. Increased Property Value

First impressions can make all the difference.

A potential buyer’s decision to purchase a property can be influenced by its appearance. A dirty, dingy property can lower its perceived value.

However, soft washing can provide a cost-effective solution to this problem by removing stains, dirt, and other unsightly buildup that can detract from a property’s appearance.

By enhancing the visual appeal of a property, soft washing can increase its perceived value, making it more attractive to potential buyers and ultimately leading to a higher selling price.

Furthermore, a clean property can also demonstrate to potential buyers that the property has been well-maintained and cared for. This in turn increases its value.

Soft washing can remove years of buildup and leave a property looking like new, which can instill confidence in buyers that the property has been well-maintained.

This can lead to a higher perceived value for the property, which can translate into a higher selling price and a better return on investment for the seller.

4. Cost-Effective

Soft washing can be a more cost-effective option in the long run. It can prevent the need for costly repairs that may arise from neglecting regular maintenance.

By keeping a property clean and free of contaminants, soft washing can help prolong the lifespan of surfaces and materials, reducing the need for premature replacements. This can ultimately save property owners money on repair and replacement costs in the long term.

However, it’s important to note that the cost-effectiveness of soft washing can vary depending on the size of the property and the severity of the dirt and stains.

For heavily soiled surfaces, multiple rounds of soft washing may be required, which can add up in cost. It’s important to work with a reputable soft washing company that can provide an accurate estimate of costs based on the unique needs of the property.

Cons:

1. Potential Property Damage

Soft washing, while generally safe for most surfaces, can potentially cause damage to delicate materials.

This is why it is essential to hire experienced and reputable professionals who have the knowledge and expertise to properly assess the surfaces that need to be cleaned and determine the appropriate pressure and cleaning solution.

Skipping this important step can result in costly repairs and even decrease the value of the property. It is important to note that not all surfaces are suitable for soft washing and should be cleaned using alternative methods.

2. Conceals Structural Issues

Soft washing may make it difficult for a pre-purchase inspector to identify any structural issues with a property.

The cleaning process can conceal defects, making it hard to identify any damage or issues. If an inspector can’t identify a structural issue, it may result in the buyer purchasing a property with expensive repair costs that they weren’t aware of.

3. Short-Term Results

While soft washing can effectively clean a property, it is important to note that the results are not permanent.

The property will require regular maintenance to keep it looking clean and fresh. This can include regular soft washing treatments.

In addition, the effects of soft washing can wear off relatively quickly, especially in areas with high levels of pollution or exposure to the elements. This means that property owners and sellers may need to invest in soft washing treatments more frequently than they initially anticipated.

4. Risk Of Water Damage

If not done properly, the surfaces being washed can become oversaturated. This will lead to water damage and potentially costly repairs. This can be particularly problematic for delicate surfaces such as wood or certain types of roofing materials.

Furthermore, water damage can also pose a liability risk for property owners, particularly if the damage affects neighboring properties.

In some cases, water damage caused by soft washing may even result in legal disputes, which can be both time-consuming and costly to resolve.

As such, it is important to ensure that any soft washing work is done by a qualified and experienced professional to minimize the risk of water damage and associated liability issues.

Takeaways

If you’re considering soft washing your property before a pre-purchase inspection, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of this method. Soft washing can effectively improve your property’s appearance and remove harmful substances, but it’s not without its potential drawbacks. As a savvy buyer, it’s crucial to be aware of all the factors that could impact your decision.