Cedar Shake Cleaning
in North Georgia & Upstate SC
Specialty soft wash cleaning for cedar shake roofs and siding. We safely remove moss, algae, and lichen without high pressure — preserving your wood grain and extending your roof's life.
Cedar Shakes Require a Completely Different Approach
Cedar shake roofs are one of the most beautiful and distinctive roofing materials in North Georgia — but they are also one of the most delicate. Unlike asphalt shingles or metal roofing, cedar is a natural wood that cannot withstand high-pressure washing under any circumstances. Pressure washing will splinter the shakes, destroy the wood grain, void manufacturer warranties, and take years off your roof's lifespan.
North Georgia's humid subtropical climate creates the perfect environment for moss, algae, lichen, and black streaks (Gloeocapsa magma) to take hold on cedar shakes. The combination of heavy rainfall, dense tree canopy, and warm temperatures means organic growth accelerates faster here than almost anywhere in the Southeast. Left untreated, this growth traps moisture against the wood, causing rot, warping, and premature failure.
At Southern Exterior Cleaning, we specialize in soft wash cedar shake cleaning — using low-pressure application (typically under 100 PSI) with carefully calibrated chemical ratios designed specifically for natural wood. Our solutions kill algae, moss, and lichen at the root while preserving the cedar's natural oils, grain structure, and protective properties. This is not a generic roof cleaning — it is a specialized service that requires specific expertise, training, and equipment.
We Don't Use Bleach.
We Use GreenOx Renew.
Most companies clean cedar with bleach-based chemicals that strip the wood, fade the color, and leave your shakes looking washed out. We use GreenOx Renew — a professional biodegradable cleaner that works with the cedar, not against it. It removes algae, mold, and organic growth while restoring the wood's natural color. Your cedar looks the way it's supposed to — rich, warm, and clean.
Cedar Shake Issues We Treat
North Georgia's climate creates unique challenges for cedar roofs. We treat every type of organic growth and weathering damage.
Algae & Green Growth
Green algae thrives in humid, shaded conditions and spreads rapidly across cedar surfaces. It traps moisture against the wood and accelerates decay if not treated. Our soft wash solution kills algae at the cellular level.
Moss Buildup
Moss grows thick on cedar shakes in North Georgia's mountain humidity. Its root system burrows into the wood grain, lifting shakes and creating pathways for water intrusion. We kill moss roots completely and gently remove buildup.
Lichen
Lichen is one of the most stubborn organisms on cedar roofs. It bonds directly to the wood surface and resists most household cleaners. Our specialized soft wash formulation breaks the bond and kills lichen without scrubbing or scraping.
Black Streaks (Gloeocapsa Magma)
Those dark streaks running down your cedar roof are a cyanobacterium called Gloeocapsa magma. It feeds on cedar tannins and limestone, spreading across the entire roof if untreated. Our treatment eliminates it and prevents regrowth.
Mildew & Mold
Mildew and mold thrive in the damp conditions beneath tree canopy. On cedar, they penetrate the wood's porous surface and cause discoloration and structural weakening. Our soft wash kills mold spores below the surface, not just on top.
Weathering & Graying
UV exposure and weather gradually strip cedar's natural color, leaving it gray and dried out. While some graying is natural, excessive weathering indicates the wood's protective oils are depleted. We clean and recommend preservation treatments to restore and protect.
Cedar Shakes Deserve Specialist Care
Free estimates returned within 24 hours. Soft wash only — never high pressure.
How We Safely Clean
Cedar Shake Roofs
Every cedar shake job follows our proven four-step soft wash process designed to clean thoroughly without damaging the wood.
Inspect Shake Condition
We evaluate the overall condition of your cedar shakes — checking for cracked, split, or deteriorated shakes, the type and severity of organic growth, and any areas that may need special attention or repair before cleaning.
Apply Soft Wash Solution
We apply our cedar-safe cleaning solution at carefully calibrated chemical ratios using low-pressure equipment (under 100 PSI). The solution penetrates moss, algae, and lichen, killing growth at the root without disturbing the wood grain.
Gentle Rinse
After the solution has had time to work, we rinse with a gentle, low-pressure water flow that follows the natural direction of the shakes. This removes dead organic material while protecting the wood's structural integrity.
Treat & Protect
We apply a preventive treatment that inhibits future moss, algae, and lichen regrowth. For roofs that need it, we recommend cedar preservation treatments to replenish natural oils and provide UV protection.
See the Difference Soft Wash
Cedar Cleaning Makes
Real results from cedar shake roofs across North Georgia. Drag the slider to reveal the transformation.
Why Homeowners Trust SEC
for Cedar Shake Cleaning
Cedar shake cleaning is a specialty niche that most exterior cleaning companies don't understand. Here's why we're different.
Soft Wash Specialists
We exclusively use soft washing for cedar — never high pressure. Our low-pressure technique (under 100 PSI) safely removes organic growth without splintering, etching, or damaging the wood fibers that protect your roof.
No Bleach — We Use GreenOx Renew
We don't use bleach on cedar. We use GreenOx Renew — a professional-grade, biodegradable cleaner specifically approved for overwater use. That means it's safe for lakefront and waterfront properties, won't harm aquatic life, and won't strip the natural oils from your cedar. Effective without being destructive.
Wood Preservation Focus
We don't just clean — we preserve. Our approach focuses on extending the life of your cedar investment by maintaining the wood's structural integrity, natural oils, and weather resistance throughout the cleaning process.
143+ Five-Star Reviews
We've earned a perfect 5.0 rating on Google because we treat every roof like it's our own. Our reputation for quality and care on specialty services like cedar shake cleaning is what sets us apart.
Honest Assessment
We'll tell you the truth about your cedar shakes. If they're too far gone for cleaning alone, we'll let you know. If certain sections need repair before cleaning, we'll point that out. No upselling — just honest professional guidance.
$1M Fully Insured
Licensed in both Georgia and South Carolina with $1 million in liability coverage. Your cedar shake roof — one of the most expensive roofing materials — is fully protected from the moment we arrive until the job is done.
Cedar Shake Cleaning Across 40+ Cities
in North Georgia & Upstate SC
We provide specialty cedar shake cleaning within a one-hour radius of Toccoa, GA. Here are some of the cities we serve.
Don't see your city? We probably serve it. Give us a call to find out.
Call (706) 525-8747Common Cedar Shake
Cleaning Questions
Everything you need to know about professional cedar shake cleaning in North Georgia.
Ready to Restore Your
Cedar Shake Roof?
Request your free cedar shake cleaning estimate today. Most quotes returned within 24 hours.
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