Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing - What’s better?
When it comes to cleaning the exterior of a building or other surface, two popular methods are softwashing and pressure washing. While both methods involve the use of water and cleaning solutions, there are some key differences between the two. So, which one is the best option for your cleaning needs? Here's a breakdown of softwashing vs pressure washing to help you decide.
First, let's define each method:
Pressure washing: Also known as power washing, this method uses high-pressure water jets to blast away dirt, grime, and other contaminants from surfaces. It is a powerful cleaning method that is effective at removing tough stains and discoloration, and is often used to clean surfaces such as concrete, brick, wood, siding, decks, and more.
Softwashing: This method involves the use of low-pressure water and specialized cleaning solutions to gently clean and sanitize surfaces. It is a more gentle cleaning method that is often used on surfaces such as roofs, siding, and other delicate materials.
So, what are the main differences between the two methods?
Pressure: The most obvious difference is the pressure of the water being used. Pressure washing uses high-pressure water jets, while softwashing uses low-pressure water. This means that pressure washing is a more powerful cleaning method, but it can also be more aggressive and potentially damaging to certain surfaces. Softwashing, on the other hand, is a gentler cleaning method that is less likely to cause damage to delicate materials.
Cleaning solutions: Another difference between the two methods is the use of cleaning solutions. Softwashing typically involves the use of specialized cleaning solutions that are designed to gently clean and sanitize surfaces. These solutions may include biodegradable detergents, algae inhibitors, and other specialized chemicals. Pressure washing, on the other hand, may or may not use cleaning solutions. It is more commonly used with just water, although some pressure washing companies do offer the option of adding cleaning solutions to the water stream.
Effectiveness: Both softwashing and pressure washing can be effective at cleaning various surfaces, but they are best suited for different tasks. Pressure washing is a powerful cleaning method that is effective at removing tough stains and discoloration, and is often used on surfaces such as concrete, brick, and wood. Softwashing, on the other hand, is a gentler cleaning method that is best suited for delicate surfaces such as roofs and siding. It is also effective at preventing the growth of algae, mold, and other contaminants on these surfaces.
Overall, both softwashing and pressure washing can be effective cleaning methods depending on the surface and the type of contaminants being removed. It's important to choose the right method for the job to ensure that your surfaces are properly cleaned and cared for.