As the winter months come to an end, many homeowners begin to notice that their patios and outdoor areas are not looking their best.
Months of damp weather (especially on the coast) can leave patios covered in algae and moss, making them look run down and stained.
Not only do they look stained, but they can also be a safety hazard as they become very slippery.
If you’ve been searching for ways to clean your patios and outdoor area, then might I suggest you search for soft washing?
Soft washing is rapidly becoming the most popular way to clean any type of brickwork, stone, render, roof, or patio in Devon.
For homeowners looking for soft washing in Exeter, this cleaning method is one of the safest and most effective ways to bring patios and outdoor spaces back to life before the warmer weather arrives.
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is an exterior cleaning method that uses biocides to remove organic growth such as algae, moss, and lichen.
Unlike traditional pressure washing, which relies on strong water pressure to blast away dirt…
Soft washing works by applying the biocides that break down the organic growth at the root.
This allows the treatment to do the work gradually, providing a deeper clean that lasts longer.
Soft washing is ideal for surfaces such as:
- Patios
- Render
- Brickwork
- Roofs
- Stone surfaces
- Walkways
There is a reduced risk of causing any damage to your property because of the low pressure that soft washing provides.
Many homeowners who search for soft washing near me are often surprised at how effective this method can be, especially when it comes to restoring outdoor spaces.
Why Patios Often Look Worse After Winter
The damp climate across Exeter and the surrounding areas of Devon creates the perfect conditions for algae and moss to grow.
During the winter months patios are exposed to constant moisture, fallen leaves, and limited sunlight.
Over time this leads to a build-up of organic growth that can leave patios looking
- Green or dark in colour
- Stained or patchy
- Slippery
For many homeowners, this becomes noticeable as soon as the first glimpse of sun pops out from behind the clouds.
This is one of the main reasons why soft washing in Exeter becomes so popular during the spring months.
Homeowners want their outdoor spaces to look clean, and they also want them to be safe before the warmer weather arrives.
Leaving your patio slippery like this can cause serious injury.
Let me give you a scenario…
You wake up for work, and you may have hit the snooze button a few more times than you should have.
Next thing you know, your whole morning is rushed.
Quick shower
Breakfast on the go
And you are corralling the kids out the door, and into the car.
It is a typical morning in England (it’s raining). 😂
You forget you have left your phone on your nightstand, and as you run across your patio…
BANG!
You slip on the green lichen that has been growing all winter, and you bruise a rib or even break a bone.
This is so easily done, but it is also so easily avoidable.

Why Soft Washing Is Perfect for Patio Cleaning
Patios are often made from materials such as natural stone, resin or concrete, which can be vulnerable to damage if cleaned with excessive pressure.
Soft washing provides a safer alternative.
Instead of relying on high water pressure, soft washing treatments break down algae, moss and lichen at the source.
This allows the patio to be cleaned effectively while protecting the surface itself.
Because the treatment removes organic growth at the root, the results also tend to last longer than standard pressure washing.
For homeowners searching for soft washing in Exeter, this makes it an ideal solution for restoring patios and outdoor seating areas.
You can learn more about the process on our soft washing service page.
https://theexeterguttercleaner.co.uk/soft-washing-in-exeter-across-devon/
Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing
I have said it before in my previous blog posts, but the most common thing that people do is think this is a DIY job.
So down they go to B&Q to rent a pressure washer.
This is because many people assume that pressure washing is the best way to clean a patio, but this isn’t always the case.
Pressure washing works by using powerful water pressure to blast away dirt and debris.
While this can be effective in some situations, it can also be aggressive on certain surfaces.
Soft washing takes a different approach.
Because the process relies on biocide cleaning properties rather than aggressive force, soft washing is ideal for surfaces because:
- Less risk of damaging surfaces
- A deeper clean that lasts longer
- Better removal of algae and lichen
- Safer cleaning for delicate materials
Because of these benefits, many professional exterior cleaners now recommend soft washing for patios, render and roofs.
Soft Washing in Exeter and Across Devon
The demand for soft washing in Exeter has grown significantly in recent years as more homeowners discover the benefits of this cleaning method.
Properties throughout Exeter and across Devon often experience similar issues due to the damp climate and shaded areas around homes.
Algae and moss growth can develop quickly on patios, walls and roofs if surfaces are not treated properly.
This is why many homeowners searching for soft washing choose professional services that specialise in removing organic growth safely.
At The Exeter Gutter Cleaner, soft washing services are designed to restore exterior surfaces while protecting your home and leave it glowing for the summer months.

Why Spring Is the Best Time to Clean Your Patio
Spring is one of the most popular times of year for exterior cleaning, and for good reason.
After months of winter weather, patios and outdoor spaces often need attention before they are ready to be enjoyed again.
Cleaning your patio with soft washing in Exeter during the spring months has several benefits.
Firstly, it removes the algae and moss that have built up during winter.
Secondly, it helps ensure your patio is clean and safe before you begin using your outdoor space more frequently.
And finally, it means your patio will be ready for barbecues, outdoor dining and relaxing in the garden as the weather improves.
Many exterior cleaning companies also become extremely busy during the summer months, so arranging soft washing in Exeter or Devon earlier in the season can help avoid long waiting times.
Surfaces That Can Be Soft Washed
While patios are a major focus during spring, soft washing can also be used to clean many other exterior surfaces around your property.
Common areas that benefit from soft washing include:
- Walkways and driveways
- Render exterior walls
- Roof tiles
- Brickwork
- Stone surfaces
This method can safely restore these surfaces without causing unnecessary damage.
For homeowners looking for soft washing in Devon, this makes it a versatile cleaning solution that can improve the appearance of an entire property.
Searching for Soft Washing Near Me?
If you have recently searched online for soft washing near me, you are likely looking for a reliable way to clean your patio or exterior surfaces without causing damage.
At The Exeter Gutter Cleaner, we offer professional soft washing services in Exeter and across Devon.
We want to help homeowners restore their patios and outdoors as quickly and as safely as possible.
So you can keep that pressure washer on the shelf at your local DIY store. 😂
Get Your Patio Ready for Summer
As spring arrives, it is the perfect time to give your outdoor space the attention it deserves.
Patios that have become slippery, stained or covered in algae can be restored quickly with professional soft washing from The Exeter Gutter Cleaner.
If you’re considering soft washing in Exeter or anywhere across Devon, arranging your patio cleaning early in the season helps ensure your outdoor space is clean, safe and ready to enjoy throughout the summer.
We also offer soft washing in Broadclyst, Woodbury, Topsham, and Exton.
Visit our soft washing page, or give us a call to book your soft washing clean before the summer rush begins.
https://theexeterguttercleaner.co.uk/soft-washing-in-exeter-across-devon/

