Keeping your home or business clean outside is necessary in an effort to make it look great on the street and durable. The choice of soft wash and pressure wash is confusing indeed. They are both wonderful methods with pros and work on different surfaces. In this article, we will highlight the difference between soft washing and pressure washing and help you choose the right method for your needs.
What’s the Main Difference Between Soft Washing and Pressure Washing?
Soft washing is closely related to pressure washing, as also to power washing, but there are a few distinct differences among the three washing methods.
Comparing Soft Washing, Pressure Washing, and Power Washing |
| Temperature | Pressure | Good For | |
| Soft Washing | Up to 140°F | 500 PSI or less | Wood, Vinyl |
| Pressure Washing | Up to 140°F | 1,500 to 4,400+ PSI | Stone, Driveways |
| Power Washing | Up to 311°F | 1,500 to 4,400+ PSI | Walkways, Concrete |
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is pressure washing using specially formulated cleaning solution sprayed on the dirt, mold, algae, and mildew so that they are easily removed from surfaces without any harm to the surfaces.
How Soft Washing Works
- The sprayer sprays low-pressure spray with the cleaner.
- The cleaner dissolves the dirt, mold, and organic growth.
- Low-pressure water is used to clean the surface and wash away the residue.
Benefits of Soft Washing
- Safe on sensitive surfaces such as roof shingles, stucco, and painted wood.
- Purifies mold, algae, and bacteria at the root to avoid regrowth.
- Less water than pressure washing.
- More durable effects because the cleaning agent keeps the dirt from accumulating quickly.
What is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing, or power washing is the use of a high-pressure water spray to clean dirt, grime, and stains off hard surfaces. It is used on driveways, sidewalks, decks, and concrete typically.
How Pressure Washing Works
- High-pressure water sprays the surface to clean off dirt and debris.
- Cleaning detergent is used in some cases for stubborn stains.
- High-pressure water cleans the surface.
Benefits of Pressure Washing
- Successful removal of difficult-to-clean grime and stains.
- Best for hard surfaces such as metal, brick, and concrete.
- Excellent and effective cleaning of public areas.
- Enhancement of property worth through the beauty of exterior faces.
When to Use Soft Washing
Soft washing is best on delicate surfaces which can be devastated by high-pressured water. It best suits:
- Roofs with shingle or tiles
- Vinyl or wood finishes
- Paint or stucco finishes
- Outside furniture
- Screen and fences
When to Use Pressure Washing
Pressure washing works best on hard, non-porous, high-pressure surface materials. Use it on:
- Driveways and sidewalks
- Brick and stone walls
- Garage floors
- Patios and decks (with caution)
- Heavy equipment and machinery
Combining Soft Washing and Pressure Washing
Sometimes, both techniques combined give the best result. A house siding, for example, can be soft-washed, while pressure washing is appropriate for concrete driveways.
Explore More with Our Related Blogs
🔗 5 Common Reasons Why Your AC Unit Might Be Freezing Up
🔗 Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water and How to Fix It?
DIY vs Professional Cleaning Services
While one can wash with DIY, it is always advisable to leave it to the professionals. The reason is that they wash in a safe as well as effective way. Professional cleaners are well-equipped with the right know-how, tools, and environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals to wash surfaces without any form of damage.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional
- Understanding how to clean
- Appropriate equipment for various surfaces
- Effective use of time
- Safe chemical and pressure handling
Maintaining Clean Surfaces After Washing
In order to keep your home clean and fresh for a longer period, adopt the following habits of maintenance:
- There has to be frequent cleaning so that dirt accumulation is not permitted.
- Protective coating has to be done on surfaces such as decks and driveways.
- Trees and shrubbery have to be trimmed so that mold and algae infestation is prevented.
- Drain problems should be fixed to avoid water accumulation and stains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is soft washing better than pressure washing?
Ans: Soft washing will work best on sensitive surfaces such as roofs and siding, and pressure washing will work best on heavy-duty surfaces such as concrete and brick.
Q2. How often should I softwash my home?
Ans: Most homes must be soft washed annually to stop algae and mold buildup. But if you reside where it is really damp, you will have to wash more.
Q3. Can pressure washing damage my property?
Ans: Yes, pressure washing will destroy wood, siding, and even concrete if it is not done right. High-pressure washing must be professionally only done.
Q4. What cleaning solutions are used in soft washing?
Ans: Soft washing chemicals are generally a blend of mildew-killing, algae-killing, and mold-killing cleaners and algaecides that kill the algae, mold, and mildew without harming the environment.
Q5. How do I choose between soft washing and pressure washing?
Ans: Take into account the type of surface and if it would require washing or not. If it is sensitive or moldy/algae-covered, soft washing would be the best. For a hard, impermeable surface, pressure washing would be preferred.
Conclusion
Soft washing and pressure washing are both put to use in keeping a property clean and tidy. Knowing the distinction and uses, you can make an informed decision about what best meets your cleaning needs. To have professional power washing and streamlined cleaning activity executed, employ skilled cleaners to conduct the activity safely and effectively.
