Screen enclosures are fantastic for extending your outdoor space, but they don’t stay clean forever. Dirt, mold and mildew, algae, and pollen build up over time, leaving the screens dull and the aluminum frame stained.
While pressure washing may seem like a quick fix, using a pressure washer or power washer can easily tear mesh and weaken the structure. Soft washing, on the other hand, uses low pressure and a gentle cleaning solution to remove dirt without damage, safely.
Done correctly, screen enclosure cleaning using the soft washing method restores your enclosure while protecting its lifespan; done poorly, it can leave behind streaks, debris buildup, or worse, permanent damage.
Step 1: Understand Your Screen Enclosure Before You Start
Every screen enclosure or pool cage is built from materials that react differently to washing. The frame is typically made of aluminum, the mesh is often composed of fiberglass or polyester, and the fasteners are usually stainless steel or coated.
While sturdy, each has vulnerabilities. Strong chemicals can strip coatings, corrode fasteners, or discolor mesh. This is why soft washing is preferred: it utilizes biodegradable cleaners that dissolve mold and algae without the need for high-pressure washing.
Still, if you use the wrong concentration or neglect to rinse, you risk weakening the very surface you’re trying to preserve. Knowledge of materials ensures that you make informed cleaning choices for your home.
Step 2: Gather the Right Softwashing Tools and Chemicals
The right tools make all the difference. A garden hose with a low-pressure sprayer, typically operating at pressures under 100 PSI, delivers cleaning solutions safely. Choose a wide spray nozzle to avoid stressing the mesh.
For solutions, a diluted mix of warm water, sodium hypochlorite, and a surfactant is most effective. The bleach ratio should be mild—about one part bleach to four or five parts water. The surfactant helps the solution cling and break down grime.
Additives like white vinegar can help with tough stains. Steer clear of ammonia, vinegar, or abrasive powders. These can corrode metal, damage finishes, and reduce the lifespan of your enclosure. Among the benefits of soft washing is protecting your home’s exterior while still delivering a deep clean.
For scrubbing, use a soft-bristle brush or a microfiber cloth on softer surfaces to avoid scratching. Always prioritize safe, gentle formulas specifically designed for exterior home cleaning.
Step 3: Prepare Your Screen Enclosure for Softwashing
Preparation reduces risks and improves results. Begin by inspecting the screen enclosure for damage, including loose fasteners, torn screens, or a worn frame. Repair these before cleaning to prevent further harm.
Next, rinse the entire enclosure with plain water from a garden hose to remove loose dust, dead insects, and dirt, giving your cleaning solution a clean surface to penetrate. Protect your surroundings by covering nearby plants, furniture, and especially pool water.
Even diluted solutions can discolor concrete, stain paver cleaning areas, or harm landscaping. Taking these extra attention steps ensures your cleaning efforts are focused only on the screen enclosure cleaning itself, leaving everything else safe from accidental overspray or runoff.
Step 4: Softwash Your Screen Enclosure
Apply your cleaning solution using low pressure, starting at the top and working your way downward. This method prevents streaking and allows the solution to flow evenly. Let it sit for five to ten minutes so it can break down mold and algae at the roots.
Do not let the mixture dry on the mesh or frame, as it can leave marks or shorten the material’s lifespan. Rinse thoroughly with clean warm water using the same low-pressure settings.
For stubborn areas, reapply the solution and gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid using abrasive tools or high-pressure settings, as they can cause permanent damage to the surface.
For pool cage cleaning, especially in a humid climate, consistency is key. A little hot, soapy water helps loosen mold, mildew, and debris buildup in corners, while a gentle scrub protects mesh integrity.
Step 5: Post-Wash Maintenance and Inspection Tips
Once rinsed, inspect the screen enclosure closely. Look for areas that may require extra attention and inspect for damage that may have been obscured by grime. While air drying is usually sufficient, you can use a leaf blower or a microfiber cloth on aluminum frames to prevent water stains from forming.
Keeping your pool enclosures clean isn’t a one-time task; maintenance is an ongoing process. Depending on your climate, softwash every six months to a year. If you live in a humid environment or a shaded area, you may need to clean your screen more frequently, as mold and algae thrive in damp environments.
Regular cleaning keeps it looking new, boosts curb appeal, and prevents structural issues. Many homeowners even invest in professional cleaning to maintain their home’s exterior.
Mistakes to Avoid When Softwashing a Screen Enclosure
Soft washing is effective, but small mistakes can lead to costly damage. Knowing what to avoid will help you protect your screen enclosure and get better results.
Using too much pressure – High pressure weakens the mesh and can cause the aluminum frame to bend or crack. Always stick with low-pressure settings to preserve structural integrity.
Letting the cleaning solution dry on screens – If the solution dries, it leaves streaks, residue, or even discoloration. Rinse thoroughly before it has a chance to set.
Cleaning in direct sunlight or heat – Strong sunlight or high temperatures cause the warm water or hot soapy water to evaporate too quickly. This reduces cleaning effectiveness and causes uneven results.
Skipping pre-clean inspection – Failing to check for loose fasteners or tears before washing can exacerbate minor issues. Inspect first to prevent damage during cleaning.
Using the wrong chemicals – Harsh cleaners, such as ammonia or abrasive agents, can corrode fasteners and weaken mesh. Stick to mild, screen enclosure cleaning solutions for safe results.
Advanced Tips: Long-Term Protection and Mold Prevention
Soft washing restores your screen enclosure, but extra protection helps keep it clean longer. With the right treatments, you can slow regrowth and extend durability.
Apply mold and algae inhibitors – These treatments prevent spores from quickly returning, reducing the need for frequent soft washing. They’re instrumental in humid climates.
Use protective coatings on the aluminum frame – Frames can oxidize over time. A coating guards against corrosion and helps resist stains.
Add UV-resistant sealants – Strong sunlight weakens mesh and fades frame finishes. UV protection helps preserve appearance and structural strength.
Consider water-repellent sprays – In humid climates, water exposure is constant. Repellents create a barrier that reduces moisture absorption and debris buildup.
Combine with regular cleaning – These treatments extend results but don’t replace them. Soft washing every six to twelve months keeps your pool cage, paver cleaning, and home’s exterior looking its best.
Restore Your Enclosure with Doctor Softwash
Give your screen enclosure the gentle, professional care it deserves with Doctor Softwash. Our expert team uses safe softwashing techniques to remove dirt, mold, and algae without causing damage. Schedule your service today and enjoy a cleaner, longer-lasting outdoor space.
Dan Richard started his first business at age 9, raising and selling rabbits for pets. Having a passion and proclivity for serving people and within an entrepreneurial inclination, at age 14 he started a land scape maintenance company. Within a few years that company had grown to 17 employees and to the 2024 equivalent of $700,000 per year. After selling that company, Dan created a tree trimming company in Orlando, Florida before selling that and moving on to start a cleaning company. This company was born in 1996 and today has expanded to an interior and exterior cleaning company that focuses on best-of-class service with an emphasis on making people happy by serving customers with extraordinary care.