Welcome back to the Lean & Mean Academy, where we focus on building a profitable softwash business with just one truck! Today, we’re diving into a real-world cleaning job: tackling algae buildup, deep-set oil stains, and concrete restoration. If you're serious about learning the right way to softwash, mix chemicals, and maximize efficiency, read on!
And if you want to accelerate your success, make sure to check out SESW Softwash 101, the premier class for learning the fundamentals of softwashing from the experts at Southeast Softwash. More on that later!
Cleaning the Shop Exterior: Removing Algae & Dirt
Our first task was tackling the algae-covered side of the building. When dealing with metal surfaces, the good news is that light algae comes off relatively easily with a proper softwash technique. By applying the right mix of chemicals and rinsing effectively, we restored the building’s exterior in no time.
If you're new to softwashing and need guidance on how to mix solutions, apply them safely, and clean efficiently, check out the How to Wash Course with Mike Vidan, Coty Yarbrough, Justin Rogers, and myself. You’ll get everything you need to start your business off right!
Degreasing & Cleaning Oil-Stained Concrete
Next up: deep-set oil stains. These stains had been sitting for a long time in high-traffic areas where cars frequently parked and leaked oil. For this, we turned to Coty Yarbrough’s Dynamite Degreaser—an incredibly powerful formula that cuts through oil and grease like nothing else.
Pro Tip: Never guarantee to fully remove deep oil stains. The goal is to lift and fade them as much as possible to improve the overall appearance.
Here’s the process we followed:
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Applied Dynamite Degreaser generously to the affected areas.
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Let it sit and penetrate the stains.
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Agitated the surface with a brush.
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Washed everything down, revealing a significantly cleaner surface.
If you’re serious about softwashing, make sure to grab a case of Dynamite Degreaser—it’s a game-changer!
Avoiding Costly Mistakes: A Cautionary Tale
A quick word of warning when using Dynamite Degreaser: Be mindful of overspray. While applying it to clean the oil stains, I noticed some mist hit a nearby door, instantly removing oxidation and leaving a noticeable contrast. This can be a nightmare if you’re not careful.
If you were thinking of downstreaming degreaser onto doors to brighten them up—don’t! Instead of spot-cleaning, you’ll end up needing to restore the entire side of the building. Oxidation removal is a whole different job from standard cleaning, so approach it carefully.
Final Results & Business Takeaways
After finishing the shop exterior and degreasing the concrete, we took a step back to assess the results. The concrete was much cleaner, oil stains were significantly faded, and the building looked refreshed.
If you’re looking to get into softwashing or grow your business, here are your next steps:
✅ Get the How to Wash Course – Learn everything from chemical mixing to advanced cleaning techniques.
✅ Stock Up on Dynamite Degreaser – The best degreaser in the game for tackling tough oil stains.
✅ Attend SESW Softwash 101 – If you want hands-on training in softwashing, chemical knowledge, plant mitigation, and safety compliance, this is the class for you. SESW Softwash 101 at Southeast Softwash Factory in Roanoke, AL, is the ultimate way to master softwashing and elevate your business.
Ready to Take Your Softwash Business to the Next Level?
If you found this guide helpful, give it a thumbs-up and share it with fellow softwash professionals. And don’t forget to check out SESW Softwash 101—the best investment you can make in your business!
See you in the next job!
