In This Article
If you've ever looked into getting your home professionally cleaned, you've probably heard both "pressure washing" and "soft washing" mentioned. While they might sound similar, these are two distinctly different cleaning methods - and using the wrong one can damage your property.
Let's break down exactly what each method involves and when to use them.
What is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing (also called power washing) uses high-pressure water to remove dirt, grime, and stains from surfaces. The water pressure typically ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 PSI (pounds per square inch).
How It Works
A pressure washer uses a motorized pump to accelerate water to high pressure, which is then directed through a concentrated nozzle. The mechanical force of the water blasts away surface contaminants.
Pressure Washing Pros
- Extremely effective on hard surfaces
- Removes tough stains, oil, and grime
- Fast results on appropriate surfaces
- No chemicals needed for many applications
Pressure Washing Cons
- Can damage soft or delicate surfaces
- May force water into siding, windows, and seams
- Can strip paint and damage wood
- Doesn't kill mold and algae at the root
- Stains may return quickly without treatment
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing uses low-pressure water (typically under 500 PSI) combined with specialized cleaning solutions. The chemicals do the work, not the water pressure.
How It Works
Soft wash systems apply a cleaning solution at low pressure - similar to a garden hose. The solution contains surfactants (to help it stick), algaecides and mildewcides (to kill organic growth), and cleaning agents that break down dirt. After a dwell time, the surface is gently rinsed.
Soft Washing Pros
- Safe for delicate surfaces
- Kills mold, algae, and bacteria at the source
- Results last longer (2-3x longer than pressure washing)
- Won't damage paint, siding, or roofing
- No risk of water intrusion
Soft Washing Cons
- Not effective for heavy soil or grease
- Requires professional knowledge of chemicals
- May need plant protection during application
- Longer process than pressure washing
When to Use Each Method
Use Soft Washing For:
- Vinyl, aluminum, and wood siding
- Asphalt shingle roofs
- Stucco and EIFS
- Painted surfaces
- Screen enclosures and pool cages
- Outdoor furniture
- Wood decks and fences (when gentle cleaning is needed)
- Any surface with organic growth (mold, mildew, algae)
Use Pressure Washing For:
- Concrete driveways and sidewalks
- Brick and stone
- Concrete pool decks
- Pavers (with appropriate pressure)
- Heavy equipment
- Oil and grease stains
- Rust stains (with proper pre-treatment)
"The #1 mistake we see homeowners make is using high pressure on their siding or roof. What seems like a good idea often ends up causing hundreds or thousands of dollars in damage."
Surface-by-Surface Guide
House Siding
Method: Soft Wash
High pressure can force water behind vinyl siding, leading to mold growth inside your walls. It can also crack or warp vinyl, strip paint, and gouge wood. Soft washing safely removes dirt and kills biological growth without risk. Learn more in our Florida house washing guide.
Roof
Method: Soft Wash ONLY
Pressure washing a roof is one of the worst things you can do. It strips protective granules from shingles, voids warranties, and can force water under roofing materials. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association specifically recommends soft washing. See our article on roof cleaning.
Concrete Driveway
Method: Pressure Wash
Concrete is hard enough to withstand high pressure. For best results, use a surface cleaner attachment that provides even cleaning. Pre-treat oil stains with degreaser first. Read our driveway cleaning guide.
Wood Deck
Method: Both (Carefully)
Light soft washing is usually sufficient for maintenance cleaning. For heavily weathered decks that need restoration, careful pressure washing at lower PSI (under 1,500) can be effective, but requires experience to avoid damage.
Screen Enclosure
Method: Soft Wash
Screens are delicate and will tear under pressure. Soft washing gently removes mold and mildew while protecting the screen material and frames.
Pavers
Method: Pressure Wash (Moderate)
Pavers can handle pressure, but too much can dislodge polymeric sand between joints. We typically use moderate pressure followed by re-sanding if needed.
Why We Use Both Methods at Sam's Softwash
At Sam's Softwash, we're equipped for both methods because each has its place:
- House washing: Soft wash for safe, thorough cleaning
- Roof cleaning: Soft wash only, as recommended by manufacturers
- Driveway cleaning: Pressure wash with surface cleaners
- Full property clean: Combination approach for best results
Using the right method for each surface means better results and no damage. That's why many customers prefer hiring professionals who understand these distinctions.
Ready to Get Your Property Cleaned?
Whether your home needs soft washing, pressure washing, or both, we have the equipment and expertise to do the job right.
Contact us for a free quote and we'll recommend the best approach for your specific situation. We serve Walton County, including Choctaw Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Niceville, and surrounding areas.