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There is a lot of debate on whether or not pressure washing can damage siding. The answer to this question largely depends on the type of siding you have and the method you use to clean it with your pressure washer. 

If you have vinyl siding, pressure washing is generally safe. However, if you have wood siding, you should take care not to use too high of a pressure setting, as this could damage the wood.  If you are unsure of how to pressure wash your home safely, it is best to consult with a professional.

Pressure washing and soft washing houses are great ways to clean the exterior of your home. Pressure washing uses a high-pressure spray of water to remove dirt, mud, and other debris from the surface of the house. Soft washing uses a lower pressure spray of water and a cleaning solution to remove dirt, algae, and mold from the house's exterior.

Both pressure washing and soft washing are effective methods of cleaning the exterior of a house. However, there are a few differences between the two processes. Pressure washing is a more aggressive method that can damage the surface of the house if done incorrectly. Soft washing is a more gentle method that is less likely to damage the surface of the house.

Another difference between pressure washing and soft washing is using a cleaning solution. Pressure washing typically uses high-pressure water and no cleaning solution to forcibly remove dirt and debris from the surface of the house. Not only does this make it very easy to cause damage to a home’s exterior, but it can also compromise safety since you have to use ladders to reach most of the home’s exterior.  

Soft washing uses the same high-pressure water, but a cleaning solution specifically designed to remove algae and mold is added to the high-pressure stream.  Then with the correct pressure washing tip, you can direct the cleaning solution to the highest parts of a home and allow the soap to run down the side of the house just like rain.

Which method is best for you depends on your specific needs and the condition of your house. If you want to remove old, flaking paint from your siding, then pressure washing is the more effective option.  Alternatively, soft washing is the best option if you are looking for a more gentle and effective way to clean the exterior of your house.

At Enhance Power Washing, we only use soft washing to clean a home’s exterior as it is the safest way to clean, will not compromise the integrity of siding, and provides a clean that can last for 12 to 18 months.

Not all consumer pressure washers come with the ability to downstream a cleaning solution into the high-pressure water.  Generally, consumer units are not designed for use on large projects such as cleaning the exterior of a house.  We highly recommend hiring a professional for large residential projects, and they will be able to clean your home to a high standard safely and effectively.

Anna Parker-Hemming, August 16, 2022