Pressure Washing, Power Washing, Soft Washing: What's the Difference?

During this project we used both soft washing and pressure washing for different aspects of the service.

Customers, friends, and family often ask us questions regarding the difference between pressure washing, power washing, and soft washing. The terms are often used interchangeably and can be confusing. Let’s take a closer look at the three techniques and clear things up!

Pressure Washing

Pressure Washing involves using highly pressurized water to remove dirt, grime, and mold from hard surfaces. When pressure washing the water remains at a normal temperature and is not heated. The amount of pressure used depends on the type of machine. A household machine would not have the option to offer as much power or volume as a commercial machine.

It is important to note that the pressure coming out of any pressure washer can be dangerous when used incorrectly. Please follow all of the safety protocols in the owner's manual if you are using a pressure washer yourself. Direct pressure can also be very damaging to the siding of your home when used improperly. At Dr. Powerwash, our professionals use a soft wash technique to clean the siding of your home and prevent any possible damage. We will talk more on the soft washing later!

Power Washing

The term power washing is often used interchangeably with pressure washing and is very similar. When power washing, you are also using highly pressured water to remove dirt, grime, and mold from hard surfaces. The main difference is that the water is heated when power washing. Heated water helps remove highly stained surfaces and is often used for extremely tough surface cleaning jobs such as the concrete around gas stations, grease stains in drive through lanes, and dumpster pad cleaning.

Soft Washing

Soft washing is an extremely low pressure washing technique. A soap mix will be applied when soft washing to clean the mold, algae, dirt, and other debris. After the soap is applied the surface will need to be thoroughly rinsed with water to remove the mold, algae, dirt, debris and soap. At Dr. Powerwash, we use a biodegradable disinfectant soap mix to kill all of the bacteria and mold.

Our professionals use a soft washing technique for our House Washing and Roof Cleaning services. Soft washing is the safest strategy to use when washing a home. It is also the technique that protects your home the most.

Eliminating the mold from the outside of your house is an extremely smart investment and prolongs the life of your home. A House Wash or Roof Cleaning from Dr. Powerwash will also sanitize the outside of your home and increase your curb appeal. Call us today and eradicate the stress of an unclean home. Enjoy your weekend with family and friends knowing that the most trustworthy exterior cleaning company in the Charlottesville area is taking care of your home!