Difference Between Pressure Washing & Soft Washing

Published on

January 17, 2023

by

Julius Marchi

Pressure washing and soft washing are both popular methods for cleaning exterior surfaces, but they are quite different from each other. In this blog post, we will explain the key differences between these two methods and when to use each one.

Pressure washing, also known as power washing, involves using a high-pressure stream of water to remove dirt, grime, and other buildup from surfaces such as concrete, brick, and wood. This method is typically used for surfaces that are relatively hard and can withstand high pressure, such as driveways, decks, and sidewalks.

The pressure of the water stream can range anywhere from 2,500 to 4,000 PSI (pounds per square inch), which can be powerful enough to strip paint and damage certain surfaces. To avoid damage, it is important to be precise and use the right nozzle tip and to adjust pressure accordingly.

On the other hand, soft washing is a low-pressure method that uses a gentle stream of water and a cleaning solution to remove dirt and buildup from surfaces such as roofs, stucco, and vinyl siding. This method is preferred for delicate surfaces that cannot withstand high pressure, such as roofs and wood siding.

The pressure of the water used in soft washing is typically around 500 to 800 PSI, and the water is mixed with cleaning solutions such as detergents, mildewcides, and algaecides that are specifically designed for the surface being cleaned. The cleaning solution is then applied with a low-pressure spray, which is not enough pressure to damage the surface.

Soft washing also uses a special nozzle designed to produce a wide fan pattern that covers more area with less pressure, and allowing the cleaning solutions to do the work of breaking down dirt and grime instead of relying on high pressure to blast it off.

In summary, the main difference between pressure washing and soft washing is the pressure of the water and the type of cleaning solutions used. Pressure washing is best for hard surfaces that can withstand high pressure, while soft washing is more suitable for delicate surfaces that cannot handle high pressure. It’s important to choose the right method for the job to ensure that your surfaces are not damaged during the cleaning process.

As a general rule, if you’re not sure whether your surfaces can withstand high pressure, it’s best to opt for soft washing to be on the safe side and avoid any potential damage to your home.

Let the professionals at Presh Clean handle all of your pressure washing & soft washing needs to ensure your home is looking as spectacular as possible!

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