We get the question a lot in our industry about whether soft washing and pressure washing are the same things. Soft washing is not an interchangeable term for pressure washing; they are two different processes and both important for different areas. But how does someone know which method to use where? This is how they differ and where each is most appropriately used, outlined by our pressure washing in Goose Creek professional service.
What is Power Washing?
Power washing is a cleaning method that uses high-powered water to get exterior surfaces clean. Although “power washing” and “pressure washing” are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. Pressure washing uses high-powered jet water, while power washing uses hot or warm water in addition to high power. Pressure and power washing are both appropriate for exterior surfaces that are strong enough to handle the harsh nature of a high-powered jet. Both power washing and pressure washing differ from soft washing. Surfaces that are generally safe to pressure wash include:
- Concrete
- Asphalt
- Some decks and patios
- Driveways and sidewalks
- Brick
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a cleaning technique that is similar to pressure and power washing, but it uses gentler pressure. It is an exterior cleaning method that is appropriate for surfaces that aren’t hardy enough for pressure or power washing. Soft washing uses water, along with biodegradable and eco-friendly cleaners and solvents, to get your outdoor areas clean. Soft washing is safe for things like painted wood, where chipping can be an issue, or surfaces that are too porous for high-pressured water. If you use pressure washing on surfaces where it isn’t appropriate, it can lead to needing significant and costly repairs! Surfaces that should be soft washed versus pressure washed include:
- Painted or stained decks
- Painted outdoor furniture
- Wood or cedar siding
- Screens, lanes, and enclosures
- Stucco
How Do You Know Which Method to Use Where?
Although most people assume that pressure washing is an excellent do-it-yourself project, if you aren’t sure what can be pressure washed and what cannot, you can end up doing a whole lot of damage. It takes a trained professional to know what will and what will not be damaged by pressure washing. At Chiefs Pressure Washing, we have the industry know-how and expertise to determine what to use where to keep all of your exterior materials and areas free from damage, while getting the best results possible.
If you want to make a huge impact on the curb appeal of your home or office, a combination of soft and pressure washing is the best way to tackle dirt and debris buildup, along with the removal of stains and rust. If you don’t have the right training, however, it is possible to do some significant damage. It is a much better idea to hire Chiefs Pressure Washing to get your exterior cleaned up and looking like new again. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.