Rumson NJ Waterfront Estate Restoration: 3-Story Cedar Siding, Ipe Decking & Bluestone Soft Wash

Above & Beyond Softwash recently completed a comprehensive waterfront estate restoration in Rumson, New Jersey, addressing aggressive black mold, salt-air buildup, and years of environmental wear on a three-story cedar-sided home.

The property sits between the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers, which creates a high-moisture environment where black mold can take hold in wood fibers and degrade cedar over time. This project required a sophisticated, multi-stage soft wash restoration rather than standard pressure washing, because cedar is an organic material that needs careful treatment.

Our approach used advanced chemistry to reach mold embedded in the wood grain without using damaging high pressure. The precision soft wash system penetrated the cedar fibers and removed mold at its source, preserving the wood’s structure and original texture. We emphasize cleaning chemistry that attacks the mold, rather than brute force that would splinter or check the siding.

Neutralization was a critical phase of the work. After cleaning, we applied a professional-grade pH-neutralizer to the cedar to stop the chemical reaction and prevent any problems that can follow improper cleaning. This step restores the cedar’s natural, vibrant look and helps prepare the wood for long-term health, which is especially important on waterfront homes in Rumson, NJ.

Because the estate included high-value landscaping, we needed to take extra care to protect plants and turf. All grass lines, flower beds, and shrubs were continuously saturated with fresh water before, during, and after cleaning to protect root systems. We also applied a pH-balancing agent to surrounding foliage to provide an additional layer of safety for sensitive plantings.

Working on a three-story structure means solutions travel downward, so we used that to perform a full-property reset. Ipe hardwood decking and stairs were treated and surface-cleaned with the same soft wash approach, lifting grey oxidation and mold and revealing the rich tones of the hardwood. Extensive bluestone patios were restored by removing years of salt and organic stains from the porous stone, bringing back the natural blue hue homeowners expect from quality bluestone.

For Rumson waterfront homeowners, a final pro tip from this project: blackened cedar is more than a cosmetic issue, it is mold feeding on the wood’s natural oils. Insisting on a soft wash followed by pH-neutralization prevents structural damage and avoids problems that can occur with improper cleaning methods. Above & Beyond Softwash is scheduling specialized cedar and waterfront restorations throughout Rumson, New Jersey, and is available to help revitalize estate properties that face these unique coastal challenges.

Location: Rumson, NJ