Preserving history
The property
A 1920s craftsman home in Reading's historic district with original wood clapboard siding, decorative trim and brackets, antique leaded glass windows, a historic brick foundation, and original copper gutters. The owners needed it cleaned without risking any of it.
Why standard pressure washing was not an option
High pressure damages soft, aged wood, forces water behind siding, can break antique windows, dislodges loose mortar, and strips original paint.
Our soft washing approach
Soft washing uses low pressure, under 500 PSI, with specialized biodegradable solutions and longer dwell times, so the chemistry does the cleaning instead of force. We documented every original feature, protected the windows, tested solutions on hidden areas, applied the treatment, brushed stubborn spots by hand, and rinsed gently with multiple passes.
The results
- 100% algae and mildew removal
- Original paint color revealed, not stripped
- No damage to any historic element, mortar joints intact, windows unharmed
Historic home care tips
- Never use high pressure on homes over 50 years old
- Test first on hidden areas
- Document before and after for insurance
- Hire specialists experienced with historic properties
Protect your historic investment
Historic homes require specialized care. Contact ClearWave Washing for soft washing that preserves while it cleans.