Soft Washing vs. Water Blasting: Choosing the Right Method for Your Exterior Surfaces

Soft washing and water blasting are two popular methods for cleaning outdoor surfaces such as roofs, decks, and driveways. The soft washing method uses a low-pressure spray and a biodegradable cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime from the surface. This method is an excellent choice for delicate surfaces as it is gentle and won’t cause damage. On the other hand, water blasting uses high-pressure water to remove tough stains, mould, and mildew from the surface. It is a more aggressive method perfect for concrete surfaces that can withstand pressure. 

Whether you choose soft wash or water blasting, both methods effectively restore the appearance of your outdoor surfaces.

What is soft washing?

Soft washing is a cleaning method that is gaining popularity due to its gentle touch and impressive results. Soft washing involves applying a specialised solution that breaks down dirt, algae, and other stains. This solution is then rinsed off with low-pressure water, leaving the surface looking clean and refreshed without any damage. Soft washing is particularly effective for cleaning delicate surfaces like roofs, sidings, and decks.

Benefits of Soft Washing

Soft washing is a powerful and efficient cleaning technique that offers numerous benefits over traditional pressure washing. It requires much less water consumption, making it a greener option for those who want to conserve water. Plus, it’s incredibly gentle on fragile surfaces, reducing the risk of any water damage that could be caused by high-pressure washing. 

The soft wash technique uses specialised cleaning solutions to gently lift dirt and grime rather than blasting it away with water pressure. As a result, fragile materials like shingles, stucco, and delicate masonry can be safely cleaned without any harm. All these benefits make soft washing an ideal choice for anyone looking to keep their property looking its best while protecting fragile materials and conserving water.

What is water blasting?

Water blasting is a powerful and efficient method of cleaning surfaces using high-pressure water streams. It’s an excellent choice for tough cleaning jobs that require removing stubborn dirt, stains and grime. From industrial cleaning to graffiti removal, this process uses pressurised water to incredibly high levels to strip away even the most ingrained dirt particles. The main advantage of water blasting is that it doesn’t use chemicals, making it environmentally friendly and safe for people working around the area. Plus, it can be used on various surfaces, including concrete, brick, metal, and more. With water blasting, you can take on the dirtiest jobs and leave your space sparkling clean in no time.

Benefits of water blasting

Water blasting is excellent for achieving clean surfaces, even when dealing with the toughest stains. It is particularly effective for exterior cleaning, where oil and rust stains often pose a significant challenge. Water blasting can remove stubborn stains and leave surfaces pristine when appropriately used. The high-pressure water stream dislodges dirt and grime from even the tightest crevices, leaving behind a spotless finish. Additionally, water blasting is gentle enough not to cause damage to the surface. This makes it the perfect method for tackling tough stains on various surfaces. If you want to clean up your property, consider the many benefits of water blasting.

Soft Washing vs Water Blasting

When it comes to revitalising the exterior of your home, the choice between a professional house washing service utilising soft washing solutions or water blasting can significantly impact the outcome. Let’s explore the key considerations for each method:

Delicate surfaces: soft washing employs a low-pressure water application and specialised cleaning solutions. This approach is particularly gentle on delicate surfaces, making it ideal for wooden surfaces, painted exteriors, and roof tiles. The soft washing solution is formulated to break down dirt, mould growth, and other contaminants without causing potential damage to the surface.

Potential damage to the surface: While water blasting relies on high-pressure water to remove dirt and stains, there is a risk of potential damage to surfaces, especially delicate ones like wooden sidings or roofing materials. The forceful impact of water blasting may cause erosion or harm to sensitive surfaces, making soft washing a preferable option for those concerned about maintaining the integrity of their property.

Wooden surface considerations: Soft washing is an excellent choice for cleaning wooden surfaces, such as decks, sidings, or fences. The gentle application effectively removes dirt buildup and mould growth without compromising the structural integrity of the wood. On the other hand, water blasting may lead to splintering or surface damage on wooden structures if not done right.

Tougher stains and roof tiles: Both methods have their merits when dealing with tougher stains or cleaning roof tiles. Soft washing tacks mould growth and stains without needing high-pressure water, ensuring a thorough yet gentle roof cleaning. Water blasting may be effective for surfaces like concrete driveways but could be too harsh for delicate roof tiles, potentially causing damage.

Dirt buildup and mould growth: Soft washing is designed to combat dirt buildup and mould growth on various surfaces, offering a comprehensive cleaning solution. Applying a soft washing solution ensures the removal of contaminants without resorting to the forceful impact of high-pressure water. Water blasting, while effective, may be overkill for less stubborn stains and could result in unnecessary wear on surfaces.

Harsh Chemicals and Environmental Impact: While soft washing solutions may contain cleaning agents, they are formulated to be environmentally friendly, minimising the impact on surrounding ecosystems. On the contrary, water blasting relies solely on the force of water.

 

Choosing between soft washing and water blasting for your exterior house washing depends on the specific needs of your property. A professional softwashing service is often the preferred choice for delicate surfaces, wooden structures, or when dealing with mould growth. Water blasting may suit tougher stains on robust surfaces, but caution is advised to prevent potential damage. Consulting with House Wash New Zealand ensures the most appropriate method is chosen and tailored to your property’s unique requirements.

Call us now to discuss your requirements and receive a no obligation, free quote.