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Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?
June 30, 2025

When your home or business exterior needs a deep clean, it’s important to know that not every surface can handle the same type of treatment. That’s where the difference between soft washing and pressure washing comes in.

Both methods are effective—but they’re used for different surfaces and purposes. Choosing the right one ensures your property gets cleaned safely and thoroughly without damage.

What Is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing uses high-powered water to blast away dirt, grime, and stains from durable surfaces. It’s ideal for concrete, brick, driveways, sidewalks, and other hard materials that can withstand intense water pressure.

  • Great for removing oil stains, tire marks, and stuck-on debris
  • Ideal for cleaning patios, garage floors, parking lots, and commercial concrete
  • Not suitable for delicate surfaces like painted wood or stucco

What Is Soft Washing?

Soft washing uses low-pressure water combined with eco-friendly cleaning solutions to safely treat and remove mildew, algae, and buildup from more fragile surfaces.

  • Ideal for roof cleaning, siding, wood decks, and fences
  • Prevents damage to surfaces that can be harmed by high pressure
  • Kills mold and bacteria rather than just blasting it off

If you're unsure, it's always best to consult a professional. At O.N. Point Pressure Washing, we assess your surfaces and recommend the safest, most effective solution for your home or business.

Why the Right Method Matters

Using the wrong cleaning method can lead to serious damage. High-pressure water can strip paint, dent siding, or ruin shingles. On the flip side, soft washing might not be strong enough to clean tough concrete stains.

Choosing the right method ensures:

  • Surfaces are preserved and protected
  • Stains and buildup are properly removed
  • No accidental damage or costly repairs

Whether your home needs soft washing or pressure washing, we have the equipment and expertise to do the job right. We tailor our services to match your property’s specific needs—leaving it cleaner, brighter, and better protected.

Contact us today to schedule the best exterior cleaning service for your property.