Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Welcome to Pro Waterblasting’s latest blog, where we discuss soft washing versus water blasting. These two techniques often take centre stage when selecting cleaning methods for your house’s exterior surfaces.
Soft washing, with its gentle approach using specialised cleaning solutions, promises sparkling clean surfaces without the risk of damage. On the other hand, water blasting, known for its high-pressure stream of water, offers a more aggressive approach to removing dirt and grime. Let us see the pros and cons of each method, helping you make an informed decision for your house washing needs. Whether you’re seeking a gentle touch or maximum cleaning power, we’ve got you covered. Let’s discover which cleaning method suits your house better.
Soft Washing
Soft washing is a gentle and effective cleaning method that is perfect for delicate surfaces around your house. It uses specialised cleaning solvents to break down and lift away stains without causing damage. This technique is ideal for surfaces like painted siding, stucco, and delicate landscaping, where excessive water pressure could cause harm.
With a soft wash, you can achieve sparkling clean results without worrying about damaging your property. It is popular for house owners looking for a safe and effective cleaning solution.
Soft Washing Process: We start by applying our specialised detergents designed to break down dirt and grime effectively. Next, we gently rinse the surface using low pressure. This conserves water and ensures that the surface is cleaned thoroughly without risking any damage. By using the soft washing method, we can achieve fantastic results while prioritising the safety and integrity of your property.
Water Blasting
Water blasting offers a powerful approach to tackling stubborn stains and tough grime on various surfaces, mainly concrete. The main difference lies in cleaning, where water is expelled at high pressure, typically exceeding 2000psi, to blast away dirt and debris. This method is perfect for driveways, sidewalks, and exterior walls requiring more aggressive cleaning.
By harnessing the force of high-pressure water, water blasting efficiently removes even the most entrenched stains, revitalising surfaces and restoring them to their former glory.
Water Blasting Process: Many water blasters typically function at pressures ranging from 2000 to 5000psi, occasionally even higher. This implies that during water blasting, dirt, grime, and a thin layer of the surface material is removed.
Unlike gentle, low-pressure washing, this method isn’t suitable for all surfaces. For instance, it’s essential to exercise caution as water blasting could inadvertently strip away paint or even cause damage, such as breaking windows, if used inappropriately. Therefore, it’s essential to be mindful of where and how water blasting is applied to ensure the safety of your property.
When does a house require more than just a soft wash?
When lichen growth becomes visible on the house, it’s a sign that soft washing alone may not be sufficient. At this stage, removing the lichen requires more intensive methods, typically involving hard pressure from a water blaster or brush. Unfortunately, once lichen appears, damage to the house is inevitable. Therefore, if you notice lichen growth, your house is overdue for a thorough wash to restore its appearance and protect its integrity.
How Frequently should a house be washed?
It is recommended that you wash your house annually. Regular cleaning ensures a sparkling clean appearance with minimal pressure and chemical usage, preventing unseen dust and organic matter buildup. Even if your home looks clean, these particles still accumulate over time. When left unchecked, this organic matter provides a breeding ground for mould, leading to more serious issues like red mould and lichen growth. You can maintain a clean and healthy house environment by staying proactive with regular washings while avoiding costly repairs.
Both soft washing and water blasting techniques carry the risk of causing damage if not executed properly. Mastering these methods takes time, practice, and the right equipment. It’s important to select a reliable operator like Pro Waterblasting, which employs trained and experienced professionals to wash your house safely and effectively. By choosing a trusted provider, you can have peace of mind knowing that your house is in capable hands, resulting in a clean and refreshed exterior without the risk of damage.
