Pressure Washing vs. Soft Washing vs. Power Washing

Choosing the Right Exterior Cleaning Method

Soft washing, pressure washing and hot-water power washing are different methods designed for different surfaces and types of buildup.

The safest and most effective choice depends on the material being cleaned, its condition and the kind of staining or buildup present.

Pressure, Temperature and Cleaning Solutions

Soft washing relies on low pressure and a cleaning solution suited to the surface. Pressure washing relies more heavily on controlled water pressure. Power washing commonly refers to pressure washing with heated water.

More pressure or more heat is not automatically better. The correct method is the one that cleans the surface without applying unnecessary force.

Soft Washing

Soft washing uses a low-pressure application and rinse process that lets the cleaning solution do the work instead of relying on force.

It is well suited to roofs and many building exteriors, including stucco, painted surfaces, siding, soffits, fascia, outside gutter faces, window frames and entranceways.

Falcon keeps the surrounding plants and bushes rinsed throughout the cleaning process.

Pressure Washing

Pressure washing uses controlled water pressure to clean durable exterior surfaces where additional force is appropriate.

It is commonly used for driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks and other concrete or hard surfaces, depending on their condition.

The operator must select the proper pressure, nozzle, distance and technique. Excessive pressure can mark concrete, damage coatings and harm delicate building materials.

Roofs and many building exteriors should be cleaned with a gentler soft-wash process rather than unnecessary high pressure.

Power Washing

Power washing commonly means pressure washing with heated water. The heat may help break down grease, oil and certain heavy commercial buildup on suitable hard surfaces.

It is not simply a stronger version of every exterior-cleaning job, and it is not appropriate for all materials.

As with pressure washing, the surface, temperature, pressure and cleaning process must all be evaluated before work begins.

Choose the Method That Protects the Surface

Professional exterior cleaning requires the right equipment, cleaning solution and technique for each material. A roof, painted wall and concrete driveway should not all be treated the same way.

Falcon evaluates the surface first, then uses low-pressure soft washing or controlled pressure washing according to what the material can safely handle.