When it comes to professional pressure washing, water pressure alone isn’t enough. In fact, the true secret behind a spotless surface often lies in something much less obvious: chemistry.
At H2O Mobile Pressure Washing, we understand that choosing the right chemical cleaner is just as important as the tools and techniques we use. From oil-soaked driveways to mildew-covered roofs, every surface and stain demands a specific chemical solution to safely and effectively get the job done.
Using the wrong product can do more harm than good—damaging surfaces, harming landscaping, or leaving behind residue. That’s why our technicians are trained to identify stains, understand materials, and select the perfect match of detergents, degreasers, and sanitizers for every cleaning challenge.
Let’s dive into the science of clean—and why it matters for your property.
The Science Behind Smart Cleaning
Every stain is different. So is every surface. That’s why we start with two critical questions:
- What are we cleaning? (Concrete? Vinyl siding? Wood deck? Brick?)
- What are we removing? (Grease? Algae? Rust? Paint?)
Each of these requires a different chemical approach.
Some substances—like oil and grease—are hydrocarbons, meaning they repel water and need powerful degreasers to break them down. Others—like mold or mildew—are biological and need sanitizers or algaecides to be killed at the root. Mineral-based stains like rust may need acidic solutions to dissolve them safely.
Common Cleaning Chemicals We Use (and Why)
Here are some of the key types of cleaners we use, and what they’re good for:
1. Degreasers
- Use for: Oil, grease, hydraulic fluid, engine stains
- Best on: Concrete, asphalt, commercial pads, driveways
- Why they work: Degreasers break down hydrocarbon chains so oil-based stains can be rinsed away with water
2. Surfactants and Detergents
- Use for: General dirt, grime, organic buildup
- Best on: Siding, patios, fences, windows
- Why they work: These help lift dirt from surfaces and suspend it in water for easier removal
3. Sodium Hypochlorite (SH)
- Use for: Algae, mold, mildew, organic staining
- Best on: Roofs, siding, patios, pool decks
- Why they work: SH kills organic growth and helps brighten stained areas—especially effective in soft washing
4. Rust Removers (Oxalic or Citric Acid-Based)
- Use for: Rust stains from metal fixtures, irrigation, or vehicles
- Best on: Concrete, stone, brick
- Why they work: These acids safely dissolve iron oxide without damaging the surrounding surface
5. Algaecides and Biocides
- Use for: Roof algae, mold, and biofilm
- Best on: Asphalt shingles, wood siding, composite materials
- Why they work: These kill mold and mildew at the cellular level, preventing regrowth
6. pH Neutral Cleaners
- Use for: Delicate or sealed surfaces
- Best on: Natural stone, polished granite, sensitive coatings
- Why they work: They clean without reacting chemically with the surface, preserving natural finishes
Matching the Chemical to the Job
Let’s look at how we tailor chemical usage depending on the job:
✅ Driveway and Garage Floor Cleaning
Typical issues: Oil drips, grease, rust stains
Our solution: Industrial-strength degreasers followed by hot water pressure washing. If rust is present, we spot-treat with a safe acid-based rust remover.
✅ House Washing
Typical issues: Dirt, mildew, cobwebs, algae
Our solution: Low-pressure soft wash system with a diluted SH solution mixed with surfactants. This ensures complete organic removal without damaging siding.
✅ Roof Cleaning
Typical issues: Black algae streaks, moss
Our solution: A specialized roof mix using algaecides and SH, applied with soft wash methods. No high pressure—ever!
✅ Commercial Dumpster Pads and Grease Zones
Typical issues: Heavy grease buildup, odor, slip hazards
Our solution: High-strength degreasers paired with hot water and surface scrubbers. We often follow up with a sanitizer for odor control and safety.
✅ Natural Stone and Historic Surfaces
Typical issues: Biological growth, rust, atmospheric staining
Our solution: Carefully selected pH-neutral or specialty cleaners to avoid etching or discoloration, followed by gentle rinsing.
Safety First: Protecting Your Property, People, and the Planet
We know “chemicals” can sound scary—but when used properly, the products we use are safe for pets, plants, and people. Here’s how we ensure safety:
- ✅ Eco-Friendly Products: Many of our cleaners are biodegradable and USDA-approved for environmental safety
- ✅ Proper Containment: We protect landscaping, drains, and sensitive areas from runoff
- ✅ Licensed & Trained Technicians: Our team knows how to handle chemicals safely and effectively
- ✅ Rinse Protocols: We follow precise application and rinse times to avoid residue or buildup
- ✅ Surface Testing: When needed, we spot-test surfaces to ensure compatibility
What Happens When You Use the Wrong Chemical?
Unfortunately, DIY and untrained cleaners often cause more damage than dirt:
- Using bleach on wood can cause warping and discoloration
- Applying acid to the wrong stone can cause permanent etching
- Degreasers on untreated asphalt can break down the surface
- Harsh chemicals can kill grass and harm nearby flower beds
- Skipping proper rinsing can leave sticky residue that attracts more dirt
That’s why experience matters. At H2O Mobile, we clean with confidence, care, and chemistry.
Why Customers Choose H2O Mobile
We’re not just blasting dirt—we’re restoring value, preserving materials, and protecting your investment.
✅ Customized chemical blends for each job
✅ Safe for pets, people, and property
✅ Trained professionals with years of experience
✅ Residential and commercial expertise
✅ Eco-conscious and results-driven
From your front porch to your fleet yard, we know exactly what it takes to clean it right the first time.
Ready to Clean Smarter, Not Harder?
Trust the experts who clean with science, not guesswork. Whether it’s a rust-stained driveway, a moldy roof, or a grease-caked pad behind your restaurant, H2O Mobile Pressure Washing has the formula to fix it.
📞 Call now at 216-369-1000
🌐 Visit www.h2ompw.com
📅 Request a free quote today!
The right chemical. The right surface. The right results. Every time.