When it comes to cleaning your home’s exterior siding, there are two main methods to choose from: soft washing and pressure washing. While these techniques may seem similar, they differ considerably in their approach and applications. Understanding these differences will help you protect your investment and achieve the best possible results.
Pressure washing: power and risks
Pressure washing uses high hydraulic force to dislodge dirt, mold and contaminants from exterior surfaces. This method, popular with homeowners, may seem effective, but it carries significant risks when misused.
Pressure washing features :
- High pressure : Uses a force of 2000 to 3000 PSI for common residential tasks, which can easily damage delicate surfaces such as vinyl, wood or stucco if used incorrectly.
- Risk of damage High pressure can crack siding, dislodge caulking, force water under the siding, causing infiltration and mildew, or even strip paint.
- Limited applications Ideal for concrete, stone and dense brick surfaces, but unsuitable for most modern residential cladding.
- Critical technique : Requires considerable considerable expertise to adjust the appropriate angle and distance, thus avoiding costly damage.
Gentle washing: efficiency and safety
Soft washing is a safer, more modern approach to cleaning residential exterior surfaces. This method favors chemical action over mechanical force.
Advantages of gentle washing :
- Controlled pressure The pressure is similar to that of a garden hose, virtually eliminating the risk of damage to the coating.
- In-depth action Specialized cleaning solutions eliminate mold, algae and bacteria at source, killing spores for long-lasting results.
- Versatility Safe for all types of siding, including vinyl, aluminum, wood, stucco and brick, as well as roofing.
Long-lasting results Antibacterial treatment considerably slows down the reappearance of organic contaminants, spacing out the need for cleaning.
Why choose a professional?
Although residential pressure washers are readily available for rental, using them without proper training can cause hundreds of dollars in irreversible damage to your property.Professional soft washing offers a safe and more effective alternative.
Professionals have the expertise to correctly assess the type of coating, choose the right products and pressure, and apply techniques that maximize results while preserving the integrity of your home. They also carry liability insurance to protect you in the event of a problem.
What’s more, the professional equipment makes it easy to reach high areas without compromising safety, a major challenge for homeowners attempting the job themselves.
Invest in the right method
The choice between gentle wash and pressure pressure washing is not just a matter of personal preference, it’s a decision that directly affects the longevity and appearance of your exterior siding. The soft-wash method is the preferred solution for preserving your investment while achieving superior, long-lasting results.
Protect your home with the right expertise! Contact our today for a free evaluation and find out how we can safely restore your property to its original glory before winter!
Frequently asked questions
Is gentle washing really effective against stubborn mould?
Yes, gentle washing uses antimicrobial solutions that eliminate mold at source, offering longer-lasting results than the simple mechanical dislodging of pressure washing.
Is soft wash safe for my plants and landscaping?
Yes, when done properly by professionals. They use biodegradable products, water the plants before and after, apply neutralizing agents and install protective tarpaulins. Pressure washing can cause more damage to vegetation with its excessive force.
Can I use my pressure washer in “low pressure” mode for gentle washing?
This is not ideal. True soft washing requires specialized equipment with pumps designed to handle chemicals and wide-angle nozzles. Residential pressure washers can be damaged by concentrated professional cleaning solutions.
Can gentle washing remove oil or grease stains from my driveway?
No, the soft wash is not designed for oil or grease stains. These contaminants require the power of pressure washing with specialized detergents. Softwash excels against organic matter such as mildew and algae, but not against petroleum residues.
Do I need to de-ice before washing in winter?
Yes, it’s essential to de-ice surfaces before pressure washing in winter. Apply salt, sand, calcium chloride or magnesium chloride to icy areas to prevent falls and additional ice build-up caused by water run-off during cleaning.
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