What Homeowners in Truro, Falmouth, Newquay, St Ives, Penzance & Surrounding Villages Need to Know
If you live in coastal Cornwall, you’ve probably noticed how quickly rendered walls turn green.
From Falmouth and St Ives to Newquay, Penzance, Truro and Padstow, salt air, damp conditions and mild winters create the perfect environment for algae growth on exterior walls.
Render cleaning isn’t just about improving appearance — it’s about protecting your home from long-term staining and deterioration.
Below are the 10 most common questions homeowners in coastal Cornwall ask about render cleaning.

1. Why Does Render Turn Green So Quickly in Coastal Cornwall?
Coastal Cornwall has:
- High humidity
- Salt-laden air
- Frequent rainfall
- Mild winters
- Shaded garden environments
These conditions allow algae spores to thrive year-round.
North-facing walls in areas like Falmouth, St Ives and Newquay are particularly vulnerable because they receive less direct sunlight, meaning surfaces stay damp longer.
2. Is Green Render Just Cosmetic, or Is It a Problem?
It starts as cosmetic — but can become structural over time.
Algae holds moisture against the render surface. Prolonged moisture exposure can:
- Weaken render integrity
- Cause staining that becomes harder to remove
- Lead to cracking in freeze/thaw cycles
- Reduce property value
Early professional cleaning prevents long-term damage.
3. Can You Pressure Wash Render?
In most cases, high-pressure washing is not recommended for render.
Too much pressure can:
- Damage textured finishes
- Remove paint or colour
- Create patchy results
- Force water into cracks
Instead, render is typically cleaned using soft washing methods.
👉 Learn more about professional render cleaning here:
https://jetpowerpressurewashing.co.uk/render-cleaning/
4. What Is Soft Washing and Why Is It Better for Render?
Soft washing uses:
- Low-pressure water
- Specialist cleaning treatments
- Controlled application
It kills algae at the root rather than simply removing the surface layer.
This method:
- Protects delicate finishes
- Produces longer-lasting results
- Reduces rapid regrowth
In coastal towns like Penzance and Padstow, soft washing is often the safest and most effective solution.
5. How Long Does Render Cleaning Last in Cornwall?
In coastal areas, results typically last 2–4 years, depending on:
- Exposure to sea air
- Shade levels
- Surrounding vegetation
- Weather patterns
Homes near the coast (St Ives, Newquay, Falmouth) may experience faster regrowth than more inland properties.
Regular maintenance keeps staining under control.

6. Will Render Cleaning Damage My Paint or Coloured Finish?
When carried out professionally — no.
The key is:
- Correct chemical strength
- Proper dwell time
- Controlled rinse pressure
DIY jet washing is one of the most common causes of damaged render in Cornwall.
Professional soft washing avoids this risk.
7. How Much Does Render Cleaning Cost in Coastal Cornwall?
Costs vary depending on:
- Property size
- Height and access
- Level of staining
- Type of render
Compared to repainting or re-rendering, professional cleaning is significantly more affordable.
For an accurate quote:
👉 https://jetpowerpressurewashing.co.uk/contact-us/
8. Should Render Cleaning Be Combined with Other Services?
Often, yes.
Algae on walls usually indicates moisture elsewhere.
Many homeowners in Cornwall combine render cleaning with:
- Gutter cleaning
👉 https://jetpowerpressurewashing.co.uk/gutter-cleaning/ - Roof cleaning (if moss is contributing to runoff staining)
👉 https://jetpowerpressurewashing.co.uk/roof-cleaning/
Addressing the full exterior prevents recurring staining.
9. Is Render Cleaning Safe for Plants and Gardens?
Yes, when carried out professionally.
Precautions include:
- Pre-wetting surrounding vegetation
- Controlled application
- Proper rinsing
- Responsible chemical handling
Protecting your garden is part of the process.

10. Do You Cover All Coastal Areas of Cornwall?
Yes.
Jet Power Pressure Washing provides render cleaning across:
- Truro
- Falmouth
- Newquay
- St Ives
- Penzance
- Padstow
- St Austell
- Wadebridge
- Helston
- Surrounding villages
If you’re near the Cornish coast, we likely cover your area.
Why Professional Render Cleaning Is Essential in Coastal Cornwall
Coastal properties are exposed to:
- Salt air
- Persistent dampness
- Organic growth
- Rapid algae spread
Left untreated, render staining worsens and becomes harder to restore.
Professional soft washing:
- Restores original appearance
- Protects render integrity
- Extends lifespan
- Improves kerb appeal
- Protects property value
If your walls are turning green, streaked or patchy, now is the time to act.
👉 Request your free quote today:
https://jetpowerpressurewashing.co.uk/contact-us/





