What’s the Difference Between Power Washing, Pressure Washing and Soft Washing?

Power washing, pressure washing, and soft washing are three different methods of cleaning surfaces using water and other cleaning solutions that are typically paired together as they have similar methods but ultimately different uses. Understanding when to use what tool is important to reducing the risk of home damage as well as damage to yourself and others.

Each method uses different equipment and techniques to achieve the desired level of cleaning and both are used to do different types of cleaning. Power washing, pressure washing and soft washing are all techniques that require a lot of water so ensuring you are using the most effective technique will help you minimize water waste as well as your own time.

Here's how the three techniques differ and how they are best used around the home to provide the best results:

Power washing: Power washing is a type of pressure washing that uses hot water to clean surfaces. This method is commonly used to remove tough stains and grime from concrete surfaces such as driveways and sidewalks, as well as decks, patios, and other outdoor surfaces. The high temperature of the water helps to break down dirt and grime, making it easier to remove.

Pressure washing: Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to clean surfaces. This method is typically used for surfaces that are not as dirty as those cleaned with power washing. Pressure washing is commonly used to clean siding, roofs, and outdoor furniture, among other things.

Soft washing: Soft washing is a gentler method of cleaning that uses low-pressure water and specialized cleaning solutions to remove dirt, algae, and other stains from surfaces. This method is typically used for surfaces that can be easily damaged by high-pressure washing, such as roofs, painted surfaces, and delicate landscaping.

In summary, power washing and pressure washing use high-pressure water to clean surfaces, while soft washing uses low-pressure water and specialized cleaning solutions to achieve a gentler clean. The choice of method depends on the type of surface being cleaned and the level of dirt or grime present. It is important to avoid using power washing if it isn’t necessary as the high level of pressure can cause damage to your surfaces if not used correctly.

If you are looking for more information about pressure washing, check out our previous blog post which was a guide to pressure washing and what tools to buy. Also, feel free to contact us at any time for support with pressure washing in the Florida area. We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions and assist you in any way necessary.