10/25/2026
Exterior house washing in Melrose, MA
The most common solution for exterior house washing is sodium hypochlorite (SH), mixed with water and a surfactant.
Sodium hypochlorite helps remove green algae, mold, mildew, and other organic stains.
Professional house washing often uses a final SH concentration of 0.5%–1.5%, depending on the siding and contamination.
A surfactant helps the solution cling to siding and improves cleaning performance.
For vinyl siding with light algae, a 0.5%–1% SH solution is often a good starting point.
For heavier organic growth, a stronger concentration may be necessary if the surface and product label allow it.
Apply the solution using a low-pressure soft-washing method rather than high-pressure blasting.
Pre-wet plants and thoroughly rinse landscaping before, during, and after washing to minimize chemical damage.
Protect sensitive metals, painted surfaces, and other materials, and never let the solution dry on them.
Never mix sodium hypochlorite with acids or ammonia, and always follow the chemical manufacturer’s safety instructions.