When it comes to exterior cleaning, there are two main methods: soft washing and pressure washing. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the difference between them before making a decision.
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a process that uses low pressure to safely clean the exterior of your home. A solution with detergents, algaecides, fungicides, and other cleaning agents is applied to the surface at low pressure.
This method is ideal for delicate surfaces like wood siding or stucco because it won’t damage them like high-pressure can. It’s also effective at removing organic growth such as algae, mold, mildew, and moss without causing any damage to the underlying surface.
What is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing is a cleaning method that uses high-pressure water streams to remove dirt, grime, and other buildup from a variety of surfaces. This can include things like driveways, sidewalks, patios, decks, and even buildings. The machine typically uses either gas or electric power to create a high-pressure stream of water, which is then directed onto the surface to be cleaned.
Pressure washing can be a very effective way to get rid of stubborn grime and stains, but it can also be damaging to certain types of surfaces if not done correctly. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right equipment and nozzle, and to use the proper technique for each job.
Pros & Cons of Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing
Soft washing is gentler on surfaces than power washing but may take longer to get the job done since it relies on chemical cleaners instead of just water pressure alone. On the other hand, power washing can be more effective at removing tough stains but requires more skill and caution in order to avoid damaging surfaces.
Here are some more pros and cons of soft washing and pressure washing techniques:
Soft Washing Pros
Less likely to cause damage: Soft washing uses low-pressure water streams combined with specialized cleaning solutions to gently clean surfaces without causing damage. This makes it a safe and effective option for surfaces like roofs and delicate stucco or brick.
More thorough cleaning: Soft washing can often be more effective than pressure washing at removing tough stains and buildup, since the cleaning solutions used can penetrate deep into porous surfaces.
Longer-lasting results: Soft washing kills and prevents mold and mildew at the source, which means that surfaces cleaned using this method typically stay clean for longer.
Soft Washing Cons
Can take longer: Since soft washing relies on chemical solutions to do much of the cleaning, it can take longer than pressure washing to complete a job.
May require professional help: Soft washing requires specialized equipment and knowledge of the best cleaning solutions for each type of surface, so it may be necessary to hire a professional to execute the job properly.
Not effective for all surfaces: Soft washing may not be the best choice for tougher surfaces like concrete or metal, where pressure washing might be more effective.
Pressure Washing Pros
Fast and efficient: Pressure washing is a powerful cleaning method that can quickly blast away dirt, grime, and other buildup from a variety of surfaces.
Effective on harder surfaces: If you are trying to clean a surface like concrete, pressure washing might be the better choice since it uses high-pressure water streams to remove dirt and grime.
Easy to DIY: Pressure washing machines can be rented or purchased and are relatively easy to use for DIY projects.
Pressure Washing Cons
Can be damaging: Although pressure washing is effective, it can also be potentially damaging to certain surfaces if not done correctly. High-pressure water streams can strip away paint, damage delicate wood, and even etch concrete.
Requires caution and expertise: Pressure washing machines need a certain level of expertise to use safely, including choosing the right nozzle and being aware of the potential risks.
Not as effective on porous surfaces: Since pressure washing relies mainly on the force of the water stream to clean, it may not be as effective on deep-set stains or porous surfaces as soft washing.
Which Method Should You Choose?
The best way to decide which method is suitable for you is by assessing your particular needs and situation. If you’re dealing with delicate surfaces or organic growth, then soft washing may be your best option. However, if you’re looking for a quick way to remove stubborn stains, then power washing could be your best bet.
No matter which method you choose, ALG Cleaning Services has you covered! We offer both soft washing and pressure washing services in Philadelphia, PA, and the surrounding areas, so we can help you find the perfect solution for your exterior cleaning needs! Our team also handles professional window cleaning in Philadelphia and many other services. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
