Your vehicle, your lawn, and your house – they all have at least one thing in common: they need maintenance!
Keeping the exterior of your home clean not only enhances its curb appeal, but it also helps ensure a longer surface lifespan! In this post, we’ll go over the two most popular methods for exterior cleaning: Soft Washing and Pressure Washing.
Understanding the differences between these cleaning methods will help you choose the best option for your specific needs.
What’s the difference?
Understanding the difference between the two methods and recognizing which is best for your situation is crucial to avoid damage and ensure your time and money are well spent. Much like how your kitchen scissors can technically open your mail just fine, a box cutter or a letter opener is usually not only more efficient, but safer too.
We’ll start with reviewing Pressure Washing, which is a method that uses high-pressure water streams to blast away dirt, grime, some stains, and other build-up from surfaces.
Pressure Washing is most effective and should only be used on durable materials such as:
- Composite, wooden, or plastic decks and fences
- Patios
- Concrete / stone driveways, patios, pool decks, and walkways
- Outdoor children’s playground equipment
- Garbage Cans
The other method, Soft Washing, uses a low-pressure water application (normally it is about 150psi) paired with a specialized cleaning solution to remove most stains, and destroy organic growth such as algae, mold, and mildew. The solution breaks down the buildup, which is then gently rinsed away.
This method is typically chosen over pressure washing, as it offers longer-lasting results by killing the source of organic growth, as well as providing a more thorough cleaning of the surface due its use of the cleaning agent.
Soft Washing can be used on almost any surface, but is most effective for:
- Asphalt, rubber, ceramic, and slate roofs
- All siding materials
- NOTE: due to the cleaning agent, you cannot use soft washing if your siding is painted with organic paint..
- Tile or pavers
- Brick or masonry
- Surfaces with a primary goal of organic growth removal; such as algae, moss, mold, and mildew.
Remember: It’s always best to consult with a professional cleaning company to determine the best cleaning method for your specific needs.
Selecting a qualified house washing company
Details & Dixon’s sets the standard for house washing. You should expect:
- Pricing and scheduling over the phone, without an in-home sales visit.
- Professionally trained technicians who bring state-of-the-art equipment like a truck-mounted sprayer.
- Satisfaction guarantees, promising to show up on time and ensure your complete satisfaction.
Companies that offer multiple services, like house cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning and gutter cleaning are your preferred partners in home maintenance. This consolidated approach simplifies maintenance, allows the company to take a personal interest in the overall well-being of your home, and enables you to become a priority customer. Many “one call does it all” companies also offer multiple-service discounts.
Look for third-party endorsements for house cleaning companies from Angi, Better Business Bureau and Home Advisor.
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