A professional pressure washing service can achieve truly dramatic results. Watching that layer of dirt wash away is totally a satisfying experience. Regular cleaning and maintenance can fall short and in some instances only pressure washing can take care of unsightly mold, algae and grime.
While researching cleaning companies, you may come across services advertised as power washing, pressure washing, and soft washing. If you don’t know the differences between these terms, rest assured, you’re not alone.
The two most common services requested are pressure washing and soft washing, so we’ll look at them closer. Let’s learn what these services are all about!
Pressure Washing
Pressure Washing, simply, is done by pressurizing water (PSI) and is designed to clean stronger surfaces with more heavily embedded or ingrained contaminants. It is generally the best method to remove loose paint or sealer in preparation for painting or staining. A major drawback of using high pressure for roofs, siding or decking is that you can cause costly damage if performed incorrectly.
High pressure is good for cleaning concrete. However, it is not the suggested method to use on freshly poured concrete. In this case, you run the risk of removing the top layer, AKA “The Cream” off the top. Concrete over one year old can benefit from a higher pressure wash, but you should always exercise caution and test your process in an inconspicuous spot. Lastly, high pressure is NEVER recommended for cleaning your roof since you can cause damage to your shingles and run the risk of voiding your manufacturers warranty.
Soft Washing
Now, you may be thinking that soft washing has nothing to do with pressure washing. Ironically, pressure washers are used to soft wash, but they are modified to lower the PSI, or pressure per square inch while increasing the water flow.
Soft washing is done by using less than 500 PSI for rinsing and applying your cleaning solution. The tip of the pressure washer is replaced with one that widens the spray and ideally, reduces the pressure of the water expelled. Moreover, soft washing utilizes special cleaning solutions to break down dirt and organisms living (and thriving) on these surfaces.
These cleaning solutions are eco-friendly and will not strip protective coatings on your home’s exterior. Soft washing methods are preferred in a variety of situations over pressure washing. In fact, almost all of our services are offered using the soft wash method.
Concrete less than a year old and most pool decks require soft washing, and this is to make sure its structural integrity isn’t compromised. On roofs, the best method of protection requires a wash that is even softer than a basic soft wash. It uses a less diluted form of cleansers than a standard soft wash. In general, when you are considering a standard cleaning of your house, deck, roof, or newer concrete – Soft Washing is our preferred method.
If you need help with your exterior cleaning project, feel free to give us a call or text at 352.403.1475 or send us an email. We’re happy to help in any way we can!
