What's the Difference Between Soft Washing and Pressure Washing?

Both methods are used to clean outdoor surfaces, but they work very differently:

• Pressure Washing: Uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt, mold, and grime. Great for hard, durable surfaces like concrete driveways and stone.
• Soft Washing: Uses a low-pressure spray combined with biodegradable cleaning solutions to gently remove dirt, algae, and mildew. Perfect for roofs, weatherboards, painted surfaces, and cladding.

Think of it like this: pressure washing is a power hose, while soft washing is more like a gentle bath-with extra cleaning power.

1. It's Safer for Delicate Surfaces

High-pressure water can damage:

• Weatherboard and vinyl siding
• Painted surfaces
• Roof shingles
• Wooden decks and fencing

Soft washing gently cleans without causing cracks, chips, or water intrusion.

2. It Kills Mold, Algae, and Lichen at the Root

Pressure washing often just blasts away surface grime, but doesn't actually kill the spores causing the growth. Soft washing uses a targeted cleaning solution that breaks down organic buildup and stops it from returning as quickly.

Bonus: Our eco-friendly cleaning agents are safe for your home, pets, and plants.

3. It Lasts Longer

Because soft washing treats the root of the problem, surfaces stay cleaner for longer compared to pressure washing alone.

When Should You Use Soft Washing Instead of Pressure Washing?

Here are the best candidates for a soft wash:

• Roofs (especially Colorsteel and tile)
• Exterior cladding or painted walls
• Wooden surfaces
• Outdoor furniture
• Gutter exteriors and fascias

How Often Should You Soft Wash Your Home?

We recommend soft washing most residential homes every 12-18 months, or more frequently in areas exposed to shade, moisture, or sea air.

In Auckland's humid climate, moss and mildew can build up fast—regular soft washing helps preserve the look and lifespan of your home.