Pressure washing, soft washing… same thing, right?
Not quite.
If you’ve ever looked at your siding and thought, “I should probably blast that clean,” you’re not alone. But depending on what you’re cleaning and how dirty it is, you could actually do more harm than good with the wrong method.
This guide breaks down the difference between pressure washing and soft washing, when to use each, and why hiring someone who understands both can protect your home (and your budget).
What Is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water — usually between 2,000 and 3,000 PSI — to clean tough exterior surfaces. It’s all about force.
It works best on:
- Concrete driveways
- Patios and walkways
- Stone or brick
- Garage floors
- Retaining walls
Pressure washing services are great when you need to remove deep-set stains, salt residue, or years of grime from strong, solid surfaces.
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is more about chemistry than pressure. It uses low-pressure water (under 1,000 PSI) and a biodegradable cleaning solution that kills algae, mold, and mildew at the source.
It’s ideal for more delicate surfaces like:
- Vinyl or painted siding
- Roof shingles
- Wood decks or fences
- Screens, windows, and trim
Think of it like washing your car. Pressure washing is a fire hose. Soft washing is a garden hose with soap.
Which One Do You Actually Need?
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you figure it out:
| Surface | Method |
|---|---|
| Concrete driveway | Pressure washing |
| Roof shingles | Soft washing |
| Vinyl siding | Soft washing |
| Brick patio | Pressure washing |
| Wood fence | Soft washing |
| Commercial signage | Soft washing |
Still not sure? That’s where a professional comes in. Our team at Emerald Valley Outdoor uses both techniques depending on the job. We’ll assess the surface, grime level, and condition before starting any pressure washing services.
Why Using the Wrong Method Can Cost You
We’ve seen it — paint stripped from siding, wood splintered from decks, roof shingles blown off entirely. Pressure washing the wrong surface can cause expensive damage.
Soft washing the wrong area (like oily concrete) might leave it looking exactly the same.
Knowing which approach to take saves you time, money, and repairs. That’s why we don’t treat every job the same. We take the time to get it right.
What About Commercial Pressure Washing Services?
If you run a business in St. Louis, image matters. But blasting your storefront with pressure could damage signage or peel paint. We combine both pressure washing and soft washing based on your building’s materials, so you get a thorough clean without the risk.
Whether it’s a restaurant patio, retail entrance, or office complex, we provide smart, surface-safe solutions.
Need Help Deciding?
If your property needs a refresh, but you’re unsure whether to go with pressure or soft washing, we’ve got you covered. Our team handles both and will always choose the safest and most effective method.
We offer professional pressure washing in St. Louis for homes and businesses across the area. You don’t have to guess — just reach out and we’ll take care of it.
Final Thoughts
Pressure washing uses power. Soft washing uses science. Both have their place, and the key is knowing when to use each.
If you’re looking for pressure washing services that protect your property and actually get results, let Emerald Valley Outdoor handle it. We’ll keep your home or business looking clean, safe, and professional — the right way.
