Pressure Cleaning vs. Soft Washing: Choosing the Right Method
Pressure cleaning and soft washing are two methods for cleaning exterior surfaces. Pressure cleaning uses a high-pressure stream of water to blast away dirt, grime, and other contaminants. Soft washing uses a low-pressure stream of water and cleaning solutions to remove dirt and organic growth.
Both pressure cleaning and soft washing can be effective cleaning methods, but they are not interchangeable. The best method for your needs will depend on the type of surface you are cleaning and the amount of dirt and grime that is present.
What is pressure cleaning?
Pressure cleaning, also known as power washing, is a cleaning method that uses a high-pressure stream of water to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from surfaces. Pressure washers can produce water pressure ranging from 1,300 to 2,800 PSI (pounds per square inch).
Pressure cleaning is an effective way to clean a variety of surfaces, including concrete, brick, wood, and metal. It can be used to remove dirt, grime, graffiti, mould, mildew, and other types of stains.
What is soft washing?
Soft washing is a cleaning method that uses a low-pressure stream of water and cleaning solutions to remove dirt and organic growth from surfaces. Soft washing machines typically produce water pressure ranging from 50 to 500 PSI.
Soft washing is a gentle cleaning method that is ideal for delicate surfaces, such as roofs, siding, and windows. It can be used to remove dirt, grime, mould, mildew, algae, and other types of organic growth.
When to use pressure cleaning
Pressure cleaning is a good choice for cleaning hard surfaces that can withstand the high-pressure water stream. Pressure cleaning is often used to clean the following surfaces:
Concrete driveways, patios, and sidewalks
Brick and stone walkways, walls, and patios
Wood decks and fences
Metal fences and gates
Graffiti-covered surfaces
When to use soft washing
Soft washing is a good choice for cleaning delicate surfaces that could be damaged by the high-pressure water stream. Soft washing is often used to clean the following surfaces:
Roofs
Siding
Windows
Gutters and downspouts
Wood decks and fences
Delicate landscaping
Benefits of pressure cleaning
Pressure cleaning offers a number of benefits, including:
Effective cleaning: Pressure cleaning is a very effective way to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from surfaces.
Fast cleaning: Pressure cleaning can quickly clean large areas.
Versatile: Pressure cleaning can be used to clean a variety of surfaces.
Affordable: Pressure cleaning is a relatively affordable cleaning method.
Benefits of soft washing
Soft washing also offers a number of benefits, including:
Gentle cleaning: Soft washing is a gentle cleaning method that is safe for delicate surfaces.
Effective cleaning: Soft washing is effective at removing dirt, grime, mould, mildew, and other organic growth.
Long-lasting results: Soft washing can help to prevent the growth of mould and mildew, which can extend the life of your surfaces.
Affordable: Soft washing is a relatively affordable cleaning method.
How to choose the right cleaning method
When choosing between pressure cleaning and soft washing, it is important to consider the following factors:
The type of surface you are cleaning
The amount of dirt and grime that is present
The condition of the surface
Your budget
If you are cleaning a hard surface that can withstand the high-pressure water stream, then pressure cleaning is a good option. If you are cleaning a delicate surface, then soft washing is a good option.
If you are unsure which cleaning method is right for your needs, it is best to consult with a professional cleaning company.
