Tell it to me straight, Doc.
When it comes to cleaning the exterior of your home or business, pressure washing and soft washing are two of the most popular methods. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two that make them better suited for different situations.
In this article, we will explore the differences between pressure washing and soft washing, and when each method is best used. No matter which method is needed, we at Spray Doctor bring the expertise to do the job right every time.
What is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing is a cleaning method that uses a high-pressure stream of water to remove dirt, grime, and other debris from hard surfaces such as concrete, brick, and stone. The pressure of the water can be adjusted depending on the level of cleaning required.
Pressure washing is an effective method for removing stubborn stains and dirt from hard surfaces. It is commonly used to clean driveways, sidewalks, decks, and other outdoor areas.
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a cleaning method that uses a lower pressure stream of water, combined with specialized cleaning solutions, to remove dirt, algae, and other organic matter from the exterior of your home or business. Soft washing is often used on surfaces that can be damaged by high-pressure cleaning, such as roofs, siding, and windows.
The cleaning solutions used in soft washing are designed to break down dirt and organic matter, making it easier to remove without damaging the surface being cleaned. Soft washing can be used on a variety of surfaces, including stucco, vinyl siding, and even wood.
When to Use Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is best used on hard surfaces such as concrete, brick, and stone. It is an effective method for removing oil stains, rust stains, and other stubborn dirt and debris that can accumulate on these surfaces. Pressure washing is also useful for cleaning large outdoor areas such as parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, and decks.
When to Use Soft Washing
Soft washing is best used on surfaces that can be damaged by high-pressure cleaning, such as roofs, siding, and windows. It is also effective for removing organic matter such as algae, moss, and lichen that can grow on these surfaces over time.
Soft washing is a gentle and effective method for cleaning delicate surfaces such as painted wood, stucco, and vinyl siding. The cleaning solutions used in soft washing are designed to be gentle on these surfaces while still being effective at removing dirt and organic matter.
How to Choose the Right Cleaning Method
When deciding whether to use pressure washing or soft washing, there are several factors to consider. The first is the surface being cleaned. Hard surfaces such as concrete and brick are best cleaned with pressure washing, while delicate surfaces such as roofs and siding are best cleaned with soft washing.
The second factor to consider is the type of dirt or stain that needs to be removed. Stubborn stains such as oil and rust are best removed with pressure washing, while organic matter such as algae and moss are best removed with soft washing.
Finally, it is important to consider the potential for damage to the surface being cleaned. High-pressure cleaning can damage delicate surfaces such as roofs and windows, while soft washing is a gentler method that is less likely to cause damage.
In conclusion, both pressure washing and soft washing are effective methods for cleaning the exterior of your home or business. The key is to choose the right method for the surface being cleaned, the type of dirt or stain that needs to be removed, and the potential for damage to the surface being cleaned. Utilize our expertise at Spray Doctor Pittsburgh and contact us for a free estimate.
