Soft Wash vs. Pressure Wash: What’s the Difference?
Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing: The Ultimate Guide for Canton Homeowners
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the difference between soft washing and pressure washing. If you're looking for an effective way to clean the exterior of your home or business, you've probably come across these two terms.
While both methods are used to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from surfaces, they work in very different ways. In this guide, we'll explore the pros and cons of each method, when to use them, and which is best for your specific needs.
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a cleaning method that uses a low-pressure spray of water and cleaning solutions to remove dirt, algae, mold, and other contaminants from surfaces. The water pressure is typically around 500 PSI or less, which is much lower than the pressure used in pressure washing.
The cleaning solutions used in soft washing are specifically designed to break down and remove organic matter like algae and mold. Soft washing is typically used on more delicate surfaces, like roofs, stucco, and painted surfaces.
What is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing, also known as power washing, is a cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from surfaces.
The water pressure can range from 1,500 PSI to 4,000 PSI or higher, depending on the surface being cleaned. Pressure washing is typically used on harder surfaces like concrete, brick, and stone.
Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing:
Pros and Cons
Soft Washing Pros
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Low pressure - reduces risk of damage to delicate surfaces
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Cleaning solutions are designed to kill algae, mold, and other contaminants
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Can be used on a variety of surfaces, including roofs, stucco, and painted surfaces
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Gentler on the environment - uses less water and fewer harsh chemicals
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Long-lasting results - can keep surfaces clean for several years
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Soft Washing Cons
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May not be as effective on hard surfaces or heavy-duty cleaning jobs
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Can be more expensive than pressure washing
Pressure Washing Pros
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High pressure - effective on hard surfaces and heavy-duty cleaning jobs
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Faster - can clean larger areas in less time
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Less expensive than soft washing in many cases
Pressure Washing Cons
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High pressure - can damage delicate surfaces and cause streaking
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May require harsh chemicals to remove tough stains and contaminants
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Uses more water and can be less eco-friendly than soft washing
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May not provide long-lasting results, especially in areas with high levels of moisture or humidity
When to Use Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing
Soft Washing
Soft washing is best for surfaces that are more delicate and may be damaged by high-pressure water. Some examples include:
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Roofs
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Stucco
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Painted surfaces
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Siding
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Wooden surfaces​
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Vehicles
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Outdoor Furniture
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is best for surfaces that are more durable and can withstand high-pressure water. Some examples include:
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Concrete
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Brick
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Stone
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Pavers
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Driveways
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Patios
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Decks
Remember: not all surfaces are suitable for pressure washing, and using high-pressure water on delicate surfaces like roofing shingles can cause damage.
Choosing between soft washing and pressure washing can be a difficult decision, but it's important to consider the type of surface being cleaned, the severity of stains and contaminants, and the potential for damage before making a choice.
Whether you choose soft washing or pressure washing, hiring a professional cleaning company like Scrubs Soft Wash can ensure that your property is cleaned safely and effectively.
If you have any questions about soft washing or pressure washing, or if you'd like to schedule a cleaning service, please contact us today.