Blog The Pros & Cons of Pressure Washing & Soft Washing: A Guide to Choosing the Right Cleaning Method for your Project Feb 28, 2023

If you’re looking for a way to clean up your home or business, you’ve likely come across the terms pressure washing and soft washing. Both these cleaning methods have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before deciding which one is best for your project.

What is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing, also known as power washing, is a method of using high-pressure water spray to clean surfaces. This powerful jet of water is powerful enough to remove dirt, algae, mold, and other built-up materials from buildings, driveways, decks, and other surfaces.

Pros of Pressure Washing

The greatest advantage of pressure washing is that it is incredibly effective at removing tough stains and buildup. The high water pressure is strong enough to take off dirt and residue without requiring the use of abrasive cleaners. It’s also an efficient way to clean large surfaces since it only takes a matter of minutes to cover a large area.

Cons of Pressure Washing

One disadvantage to using pressure washing is that it can be too powerful for certain surfaces. The high-pressure water stream can potentially damage delicate surfaces if not used properly. This means that it may not be suitable for cleaning surfaces like wood, vinyl, or stucco.

What is Soft Washing?

Soft washing is a method of cleaning that uses a low-pressure water spray combined with biodegradable detergent or soap. This method is gentler than pressure washing, so it’s better suited for delicate surfaces like wood.

Pros of Soft Washing

Soft washing is a great option for cleaning delicate surfaces, as the low-pressure spray won’t damage them. It’s also a more eco-friendly choice since it uses less water and biodegradable detergents to get surfaces clean. Additionally, soft washing is more effective than pressure washing at removing mold, mildew, and algae, since the detergent helps to break down these materials.

Which is Right for Your Project?

Now that you understand the pros and cons of pressure washing and soft washing, you can make an informed decision about which method is best for your project. Generally, pressure washing is the best option for large surfaces like driveways, decks, and buildings, while soft washing is better suited for delicate surfaces like stucco, vinyl, and wood.