Pressure & Soft Washing FAQs – Serving New Braunfels to Austin

What's the difference between pressure washing and soft washing?

Pressure washing and soft washing are two distinct cleaning methods, each designed for specific surfaces and cleaning needs. Pressure washing uses high-pressure water (typically 2000-4000 PSI) to blast away tough dirt, grime, and stains from durable surfaces like concrete driveways, patios, and pool decks. This powerful method is excellent for removing years of built-up dirt and restoring hard surfaces to their original appearance.

Soft washing, on the other hand, uses low-pressure water combined with specialized cleaning solutions to safely clean more delicate surfaces like roofs, siding, limestone, and wood. This gentler approach is particularly effective at eliminating organic growth like algae, mold, and bacteria without risking damage to your property. The cleaning solutions we use break down contamination at its source, providing longer-lasting results than pressure washing alone.

Do you clean both residential and commercial properties in the New Braunfels to Austin area?

Yes! 3rd Coast Outdoor Pros provides comprehensive exterior cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties throughout Central Texas. Our residential services include house washing, roof cleaning, driveway restoration, and patio cleaning. For commercial clients, we maintain properties like office buildings, retail centers, apartments, and warehouses, helping maintain their professional appearance and protect their investment.

Whether you're a homeowner looking to enhance your property's curb appeal or a business owner maintaining your commercial facility, our team brings the same attention to detail and commitment to quality to every project.

What areas does 3rd Coast Outdoor Pros service in Central Texas?

We proudly serve a wide region of Central Texas, operating from our base in New Braunfels. Our service area extends from North San Antonio up through the Austin metro area, including:

  • New Braunfels

  • San Marcos

  • Kyle

  • Buda

  • South Austin

  • Central Austin

  • Bee Cave

  • And surrounding communities

If you're unsure whether your location falls within our service area, just give us a call. We're always happy to discuss your project and confirm if we can help with your exterior cleaning needs.

Pressure Washing Services

What types of surfaces can pressure washing be used on?

Pressure washing is ideal for durable, non-porous surfaces that can withstand high-pressure cleaning. This includes concrete driveways, patios, pool decks, brick walkways, stamped concrete, cement foundations, and stone surfaces like limestone or pavers. It’s also effective for cleaning outdoor furniture, fences, and gutters when proper techniques are applied.

Note: Pressure washing is not recommended for roofs, shingles, siding, or delicate materials like wood. For these surfaces, we use safer soft washing methods to avoid damage.

How often should I pressure wash my driveway, patio, or pool deck?

In Central Texas, we recommend pressure washing these surfaces 1-2 times per year, depending on usage and environmental factors. High-traffic areas like driveways or pool decks accumulate dirt, grease, and mildew faster due to our humidity and heat. If your property is shaded, surrounded by trees, or prone to algae growth, more frequent cleaning (every 6–8 months) may be necessary to maintain their appearance and prevent permanent staining.

Will pressure washing damage concrete, pavers, or stone?

When done improperly, yes—high-pressure streams can erode surfaces or crack grout lines. However, our technicians are trained to use the exact PSI (pressure) and nozzle angles suited to your specific material. For instance, stamped concrete requires lower pressure than standard driveways, and pavers need gentler treatment to preserve sand-filled joints.

Pro Tip: Avoid DIY pressure washing rentals. Incorrect settings are a leading cause of avoidable damage.

Soft Washing Services

What materials or surfaces are best suited for soft washing?

Soft washing is ideal for delicate or porous surfaces that would be damaged by high pressure. This includes:

  • Asphalt shingle roofs

  • Vinyl and wood siding

  • Brick and limestone

  • Stucco and painted surfaces

  • Fences, decks, and exterior wood structures

Our soft washing process uses low-pressure water and targeted cleaning solutions to eliminate organic growth like mold, mildew, algae, and bacteria. It's especially effective for homes and buildings in Central Texas where moisture and shade encourage biological buildup on surfaces.

How long do the results from soft washing last?

Soft washing offers longer-lasting results than pressure washing because it doesn’t just clean the surface—it kills harmful organic growth at the root. Most homeowners can expect surfaces to stay clean for 12 months or longer, depending on environmental conditions like humidity, tree coverage, and surface material.

In humid areas like New Braunfels, San Marcos, or Bee Cave, soft washing is a powerful tool for both aesthetic improvement and surface protection. Routine soft washing can help extend the life of your siding and roofing, keep your home looking sharp year-round, and reduce the frequency of future maintenance.

Are soft washing chemicals safe for pets and landscaping?

We understand how important safety is for your family and property. We carefully control application strength and rinse thoroughly to protect your landscaping, lawn, and pets.

Our technicians are trained to pre-wet any nearby plants and rinse them again after completing each treatment to minimize contact with runoff. We never overspray, and we work quickly to make sure your property is left clean, fresh, and undamaged.

We’ll also walk you through any post-service care steps to ensure your plants and surfaces continue to thrive after we're done.

Roof Washing & Gloeocapsa Magma

What are the black streaks on my roof, and what causes them?

The ugly black streaks you see on roofs, often due to humidity and moisture, are typically caused by Gloeocapsa magma, a type of algae. This common microorganism thrives in warm, humid climates like ours in Central Texas and can quickly take over rooftop surfaces, particularly asphalt shingles.

Not only are these black streaks unsightly, but they can also lead to increased heat absorption and energy costs for your home. If left unchecked, Gloeocapsa magma can degrade your roofing materials, resulting in costly repairs or premature roof replacement.

Is roof soft washing safe for shingles and tile roofs?

Absolutely! Our roof washing process utilizes soft washing techniques specifically designed for sensitive roofing materials. This method involves low-pressure application of our specialized cleaning solutions, effectively killing the algae and other organic growth while not harming shingles, tiles, or other surfaces.

By focusing on gently removing contaminants instead of blasting them away, we’re able to maintain the integrity of your roof while restoring its appearance. Regular soft washing establishes a protective barrier that helps reduce regrowth, keeping your roof cleaner for longer.

Why is it important to remove Gloeocapsa magma from my roof?

Removing Gloeocapsa magma is vital for several reasons:

  1. Extends Roof Life: By eliminating algae growth, you minimize the risk of damage to your roofing materials, helping to prolong its lifespan and save on repair costs.

  2. Improves Curb Appeal: A clean roof enhances the overall appearance of your home, contributing to curb appeal, especially if you're considering selling.

  3. Reduces Energy Costs: Algae-covered roofs can absorb more heat, putting extra stress on your HVAC system and leading to higher energy bills.

  4. Prevents Potential Damage: Over time, algae can trap moisture, leading to shingle decay and potential leaks. Regular roof cleaning helps avoid these costly repairs.

If you've noticed unsightly streaks on your roof, don't hesitate to reach out. Our experienced team at 3rd Coast Outdoor Pros can provide a thorough roof evaluation and effective cleaning to restore your roof's beauty and functionality.

Pricing, Estimates, and Scheduling

How do you determine the price for a job?

Our pricing is tailored to the specific needs of your property and the type of service requested. Several factors influence the cost, including:

  • Square footage of the area to be cleaned

  • Type of surface material (e.g., concrete, wood, limestone)

  • Level of buildup or staining (mold, algae, oil, etc.)

  • Accessibility of the area (multi-story homes, steep roofs, tight spaces)

  • Type of cleaning method needed (pressure washing vs. soft washing)

We believe in transparency and never charge hidden fees. Each quote includes labor, materials, prep, cleanup, and post-service inspection. Whether it’s a small patio or a full-scale commercial property, you’ll get a fair, customized price every time.

Do you offer free quotes or on-site estimates?

Yes — we offer free, no-obligation estimates for all services. You can request a quote online or over the phone, and depending on the size and specifics of the job, we may perform an on-site visit to provide the most accurate pricing.

During your consultation, we’ll assess the surfaces you'd like cleaned, identify any problem areas, and explain the best solutions. You’ll receive your quote quickly and clearly, with expert recommendations and flexible scheduling options attached.

How quickly can I schedule my service, and how long will it take?

We pride ourselves on prompt service and flexible scheduling. In most cases, we can schedule your service within a few days of your estimate, depending on our current availability and weather conditions.

Most residential jobs — like driveways, patios, siding, or roof cleanings — are completed the same day. Larger or multi-surface projects may take longer, but we’ll provide a clear timeline before work begins. Our goal is always to complete every project efficiently, with minimal disruption to your day.

And with our 5-star reputation, you can trust that we’ll show up on time, communicate throughout the process, and leave your space better than we found it.

Aftercare & Customer Satisfaction

Do you provide before and after photos of the job?

Yes! We believe transparency and evidence of our work are vital to customer satisfaction. After completing a service, our team will provide before-and-after photos showcasing the transformation of your property.

These images not only help you appreciate the results but also serve as useful references for future maintenance considerations. We encourage you to share your before-and-after photos on social media—tagging us helps spread the word about our services!

What if mold, algae, or stains return—do you offer follow-up treatments?

We stand by the quality of our work and offer follow-up treatments as needed. If you notice any regrowth of mold, algae, or stains within 30 days of your service, please contact us so we can assess the situation. Depending on the issue, we may be able to provide additional treatment at a reduced cost.

An ongoing maintenance plan can also be arranged to keep your property looking its best throughout the year. Regular cleaning can prevent the buildup of contaminants and prolong the life of your surfaces, ensuring that your home or business remains beautiful and inviting.