Locally owned and Operated for a decade. 300+ 5-star reviews. 100% satisfaction guarantee
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a gentle cleaning method that uses low pressure combined with specialized cleaning solutions to remove dirt, grime, algae, mould, and other contaminants from exterior surfaces.
Unlike power washing, which relies primarily on water pressure to blast away dirt, soft washing uses biodegradable cleaning agents that kill mould, mildew, bacteria, and algae at their roots. These solutions do the heavy lifting, breaking down organic matter, while the low-pressure rinse washes it away.
The process typically involves:
Application of specialized cleaning solutions
Brief dwell time to allow the solutions to work
A gentle, low-pressure rinse to remove the contaminants
Soft washing is particularly effective for cleaning delicate surfaces like vinyl and aluminum siding, asphalt shingles, cedar shake roofs, stucco, painted surfaces, and screens. It not only cleans the visible surface but also sanitizes it, providing longer-lasting results than pressure washing alone.
What is the Difference Between Power Washing and Soft Washing?
Power washing relies primarily on high water pressure (typically between 1,500 and 4,000 PSI) to physically blast away dirt and debris. It uses the mechanical force of water to remove contaminants without necessarily treating the root causes of issues like mould or algae growth.
Soft washing operates at much lower pressures (usually below 500 PSI) and depends on specialized cleaning solutions to break down and remove dirt, organic growth, and other contaminants. The chemicals do most of the cleaning work while the gentle rinse simply washes away the loosened material.
Soft Wash vs. Pressure Washing
The Effects of Pressure Washing
Roofs
Power washing can be devastating to roof surfaces. The high-pressure stream can dislodge protective granules from asphalt shingles, accelerating your roof’s aging process. For cedar shake and tile roofs, power washing can create hairline cracks that lead to leaks and moisture damage. The force of the water can also lift shingles, creating entry points for water that result in expensive interior damage.
Soft washing offers a safe and effective alternative for roof cleaning. The gentle application of specialized cleaning solutions eliminates algae, moss, and lichen without damaging the roof surface. The biodegradable solutions break down organic matter at the root level, preventing quick regrowth while extending your roof’s lifespan.
House Siding
Pressure washing siding can lead to different problems depending on the material. On vinyl siding, high pressure can crack panels, force water behind the siding, and cause the siding to warp. For wood siding, power washing often leads to splintering, raised grain, and water intrusion that promotes rot and mould growth. Pressure washing on painted surfaces can cause stripping or chipping of the paint.
Soft washing treats your siding with care while delivering superior cleaning results. The specialized solutions easily remove dirt, pollen, mildew, and algae without risking structural damage. Since soft washing treats the cause rather than just the symptoms, your siding stays cleaner longer after treatment. The process is safe for all types of siding, preserving both appearance and structural integrity while extending the life of your exterior surfaces.
Decks and Patios
Power washing wooden decks often results in splintering, gouging, and an uneven appearance. The high-pressure stream raises the wood grain, creating a rough surface prone to splinters that can be painful to bare feet. Excessive pressure can also create visible patterns or “stripes” across the surface where the washer lingered too long.
Soft washing provides a gentle yet thorough cleaning for deck surfaces without the negative consequences. The cleaning solutions break down organic matter, food stains, and environmental pollutants while preserving the integrity of the wood or composite material. For wooden decks, soft washing maintains the smooth texture and doesn’t raise the grain, reducing future maintenance needs. The approach is equally effective on patios made from pavers, stamped concrete, or natural stone, removing stains without etching surfaces or damaging jointing materials.
When Soft Washing is Necessary
When Your Home Likely Needs Soft Washing
- Black streaks or green patches on your roof
- Dingy or discoloured siding
- Visible algae or mould growth
- Pollen buildup that causes yellowish tints
- General dullness in exterior appearance
Delicate Surfaces
Anytime you’re cleaning surfaces that could be damaged by high pressure, soft washing is the right choice. This includes vinyl and aluminum siding, stucco, painted surfaces, window screens, and all types of roofing materials.
When Dealing with Biological Growth
If your exterior surfaces show signs of algae, moss, mould, mildew, or lichen, soft washing is the most effective solution. The specialized cleaning agents in soft washing kill these organisms at their root, preventing quick regrowth.
After Construction or Renovation
New construction or renovation often leaves behind dust, dirt, and various residues that can be difficult to remove. Soft washing cleans these surfaces without risking damage to fresh paint, new materials, or recently completed work.
For Historic or Older Homes
Older homes often have more delicate exterior materials that have weathered over time. Soft washing provides the gentle touch needed to clean these surfaces without accelerating deterioration or causing irreparable harm to historic features.
Before Painting or Staining
When preparing surfaces for painting or staining, soft washing provides thorough cleaning without damaging the underlying material. This creates an ideal surface for proper adhesion without the roughening effect that power washing can cause on many materials.
Ready to Give Up Power Washing? Contact Ocean Softwash Today!
Why risk damage to your valuable home exterior with a power washing company when there’s a safer, more effective alternative? Contact us today for a free quote on our soft washing services.
Customer Testimonials
Contact Us for a Free Quote
Ready to restore your property's exterior to its original beauty? Contact Ocean Softwash for a free, no-obligation quote for all your exterior cleaning needs.
Get Your Free Quote Today
FAQs About Power Washing vs Soft Washing
We’ve answered the most common ones so you know exactly what to expect before booking.
