What chemical is used for pressure washing on the Gold Coast?

The common chemicals used for pressure washing on the Gold Coast are soaps, detergents, and industrial chemicals. Each of these options have their own set of pros and cons, and the choice is based on the type of cleaning that needs to be done.

One of the most common cleaning solutions used for soft washing is the combination of sodium hypochlorite, water and a surfactant. The chlorine present in sodium hypochlorite is extremely effective in removing algae, mould, bacteria, lichen, and moss from a surface. 

Surfactants help the cleaning substance penetrate the dirt and grime by making the water spread out over the surface. Water is added to dilute the chemicals and produce the needed concentration. Generally, the concentration of sodium hypochlorite in a cleaning solution is kept between 0.5% and 2%.

The problem with sodium hypochlorite or bleach is that it is an effective oxidiser and corrosive. It can damage the skin or eyes, as well as the respiratory tract, if inhaled. If it gets mixed with certain incompatible chemicals, it releases chlorine and other toxic gases that can cause serious damage to the human system. 

Likewise, industrial cleaners and degreasers can be chosen based on the surface condition and the material. While they are very effective in removing grime, the wrong concentration can damage a surface. 

This is what makes it necessary to seek help from a professional roof cleaning service to ensure that no damage is done to the roof.

In contrast, using a soap is a more eco-friendly option for surface cleaning. That way, you don’t need to worry about the proper disposal of material. However, soap may not be the best option for removing stubborn oil and grease. Beyond that, substances like oxalic acid and citric acid can be used for removing stains and rust from surfaces.

Can you clean a roof without using chemicals?

Yes, high-pressure cleaning alone can get the job done. But to prolong the life of your roof and increase the aesthetic appeal of your home, proper cleaning of the organic materials is a must. Since the sub-tropical climate of the Gold Coast remains wet and humid through the summer months, the environment is ideal for mould and moss growth.

Not only do the dark patches of algae on the roof or the walls present an unsightly appearance, but they can also damage the structure of the roof in the long run. Water damage is one of the most common problems with roofs, especially older ones.

Once the structural integrity of the roof is compromised, the interiors of your home will start getting affected by the elements. And roof repairing is not just a cumbersome task, but it also costs a lot.

How to Choose the Right Pressure Washing Chemicals

The most important factor that decides the type of chemical you choose is the job requirement. For heavy-duty cleaning, specialised cleaners will be needed. Whether you choose an acidic or an alkaline cleaner depends on the surface material. 

For example, acidic cleaners are good for brick and concrete. Removal of oil and grease requires an alkaline solution. For general cleaning, choose a neutral solution. Not to forget, you need a chemical that is compatible with the cleaning equipment. 

Once you have chosen the right chemical, the next step is to determine the right concentration. For a safe and effective cleaning process, follow the guidelines provided by the chemical maker. Using higher concentrations than needed can not only damage materials like metal or tiles, but can also fade their colours as well.

While working with chemicals, things can get out of hand if you take a wrong step. Unless you have chosen an environmentally safe cleaner, it’s always necessary to wear the appropriate PPE while using cleaning chemicals.