Render Softwashing
Low-pressure biocide cleaning for K Rend, monocouche, pebbledash and painted render. We treat the algae and leave the jet washer at home. Prices start from £400.
Why render needs gentle cleaning
Modern render is built to last and to need little upkeep, but it does not clean itself. Algae grows on any surface that stays damp for long periods, according to K Rend. The RHS adds that growth can be faster in shady spots with poor air circulation, so north-facing walls and sheltered corners tend to go green first.
High pressure is the main risk when you clean it. K Rend's own maintenance advice says very powerful pressure washers can damage the render surface. It suggests a fan setting rather than full power, working from the top down, and a biocide or algaecide to treat the algae itself.
That is the approach we take. We apply the biocide at low pressure, give it time to work, and rinse gently. As a result, we avoid blasting the texture, and we treat the cause of the green rather than only washing it off.
Render types we clean
- K Rend and K Rend Silicone systems
- Weber one.coat monocouche render
- Sto render systems
- Traditional sand-and-cement render (painted or unpainted)
- Pebbledash and tyrolean finish
- Lime render (heritage properties)
- Dash and roughcast
Heritage and lime render
Older homes need extra thought, because heritage status can bring extra rules. GOV.UK guidance says works to listed buildings may require listed building consent, so check with your local planning authority before any wall work on a listed or heritage property. Conservation areas can add their own rules.
We survey lime render before we quote, and we can supply a written method statement on request. For more on the rules, read our post on roof cleaning on listed buildings and in conservation areas. Our guide to whether softwashing is safe for roof tiles covers the roof side of the same visit.
What's included
- Pre-job survey to identify render type and condition
- Low-pressure biocide application to all affected elevations
- Window and door protection where required
- Rinse and inspection
- Before/after photo report
- 5-year regrowth protection guarantee on the treatment
Where we clean render
We cover Kent, Surrey, East Sussex and West Sussex. For example, we offer render and roof cleaning in Canterbury, render and roof cleaning in Woking and render and roof cleaning in Chichester. Pairing it with a soft wash roof clean saves a second visit.
Pricing
| Property type | From |
|---|---|
| Semi-detached | £400 |
| Detached | £550 |
| Large / extended | £800+ |
| Commercial facade | POA |
Price depends on wall area, render type and how much algae has built up. However, a bundled discount applies when we combine the job with a roof softwash.
Get a render softwash quote
We reply to every quote request as soon as we can. Tell us the render brand if you know it, because that helps us plan.
Get my free quoteFrequently asked questions
Why can't I just pressure wash my render?
You can on some systems, but the risk is real. K Rend says very powerful washers can damage the render surface, and it advises a fan setting and a biocide for algae. Softwashing avoids the damage risk, and it treats the algae instead of only rinsing it off.
Is the biocide safe on coloured render?
We choose biocide formulations for the render in front of us, and we test a small, hidden area first if there is any doubt. Because sodium hypochlorite is toxic to aquatic life, we also protect plants, ponds and drains. Ask us at survey if you have a particular finish in mind, since some finishes need extra care.
How long does render softwashing last?
It depends on the wall. K Rend advises cleaning after a few years. However, algae returns sooner on damp, shaded elevations, while a sunny, open wall may stay clean for much longer.
Can you clean both the roof and render in one visit?
Yes, and it is usually the most cost-effective route. Combining a roof softwash and a render softwash saves on set-up costs, so we discount the render price when you book both.
Do you clean lime render on heritage properties?
Yes, with care. We survey lime render before we quote and can provide a written method statement. If your home has listed status, check with your local planning authority first, since works to listed buildings may need consent.
Get a free render softwashing quote
We reply to every quote request as soon as we can. There is no pressure and no obligation.