What is sodium hypochlorite?

Sodium hypochlorite is the active ingredient in household bleach, commonly applied in soft washing operations throughout Myrtle Beach to eliminate algae, mold, and mildew from roofs, siding, and other exterior surfaces. Unlike high-pressure water cleaning, soft washing relies on chemical dwell time to break down organic growth, making sodium hypochlorite the industry standard for this method.

The chemical works by oxidizing the cell walls of mold, algae, and mildew, killing them at the source rather than simply blasting them away. Typical soft washing solutions contain sodium hypochlorite diluted to 10-15% concentration, mixed with water and surfactants. This diluted form is safer to handle and apply than full-strength bleach while remaining effective on most residential and commercial surfaces.

Safety and proper dilution are critical. Sodium hypochlorite can damage certain materials, including some metals, fabrics, and certain types of siding if applied at incorrect concentrations or left too long on surfaces. Technicians must wear protective equipment including gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection, and must neutralize treated surfaces with clean water after the chemical has had time to work. Many service providers in the area use pre-formulated soft washing blends that include sodium hypochlorite balanced with pH adjusters and compatibility agents to reduce material damage risk.

Homeowners and property managers should discuss dilution rates and material compatibility with their soft washing service provider before treatment begins.