All things accumulate dirt over time. And while simply wiping them with a cloth can mostly do the trick, the same may not be effective for objects that have acquired thick layers of grime. Today, these problems can be solved with two options: power washing and soft washing. But, how do these two cleaning methods differ from each other?

Applied Pressure

While pressure washing uses a similar technique with power washing, there are a few distinctions between them. Both utilize high-pressure liquid spray—usually at 2,500 pounds per square inch (PSI) or more—with the latter using hot or warm water to eradicate dirt and other organic materials. The heated water expelling at a high rate in power washing makes it easier to clean hard surfaces.

Soft washing, on the other hand, doesn’t rely on a high-pressure liquid spray. Rather, it uses a PSI lower than 1,000 to blast a water-based, biodegradable cleaning solution. These chemicals then disintegrate into carbon and water, leaving no contaminants behind.

Areas of Use

Power washing is mainly used for cleaning stone pathways, decks, and other concrete surfaces covered in mold, mildew, and grime. But since it blasts water spray at a high rate, it can damage surfaces that have already started to wear down. Cleaning asphalt shingles, wood siding, old mortar, and lead paint-coated materials should be carried out safely at the right distance and PSI.

For new concrete, roofs, sidings, and soft surfaces, soft washing is the best cleaning method to use. Since it uses a lower PSI, it reduces the risk of chipping protective coatings and materials, all while eradicating dirt and grime on the surface.

Equipment

Usually, machines used in power washing are heavy-duty and specifically designed to blast high-pressure water onto concrete surfaces. They also come with nozzles that allow users to power-wash far distances and increase the equipment’s pressure. Meanwhile, soft washing systems are equipped with a pump that contains the solution at a relatively lower PSI. The telescoping handles, like a power washer’s nozzles, allow users to blast water into difficult-to-reach areas but without the added pressure.

While there are various kinds of power and soft washing equipment sold today, it’s best to seek help from professionals who understand how they work. Without proper knowledge of these tools, these methods can pose risks to the users. For best results, seek help from providers of a power washing or soft washing service in Staunton.

Get Rid of the Grime! Bring Back Your Property’s Old Shine

Whether you need a power washing or soft washing service in Staunton, Lambert Cleaning is here for you! Our team can professionally remove all the grime and dirt covering your roof, fence, patio, or driveway, bringing back its original appearance and shine. Contact us today for residential and commercial cleaning in Staunton!