Constant beating from Denver rains, snowfall, dry air, and other harsh external elements can leave your property’s exteriors caked in dirt, grime, and organic growth. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent these damaging build-ups.
There are two main ways to achieve that — soft washing and pressure washing. But which one should you choose?
It often boils down to the surface material. In this blog post, we take a deeper look into these exterior cleaning methods to help you make an informed choice. Keep reading for more information.
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing uses low pressure and special cleaning solutions for surface grime removal. You’ll often need to set the pressure washer at 150-300 PSI.
Water, sodium hypochlorite, and sodium hydroxide are the cleaning chemicals and surfactants used. Algaecides can also be used.
Soft washing is recommended for delicate surfaces like roofs, siding, and windows. Low-pressure house washing and gentle roof washing effectively remove mold, mildew, algae, and other organic growth without causing damage.
What Is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water, usually between 1,300-2,800 PSI, to clean harder surfaces. You can use it on the driveway, patio, deck, and concrete. It’s perfect for removing stubborn dirt, grime, and stains.
Never underestimate the force of pressure washing. Using it on delicate areas like windows, wood, or painted surfaces can lead to costly damage.
High-pressure surface cleaning is powerful enough to strip paint from your walls. It can even remove shingles during roof cleaning.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Soft Washing and Pressure Washing
You can maintain your Denver property’s curb appeal and value with regular soft washing and pressure washing. Below are three key considerations when determining the right method:
- Surface Type: Soft washing is ideal for delicate surfaces whereas pressure washing works well on tougher surfaces.
- Level of Dirt and Staining: The extent of dirt and stain type, whether organic or chemical, affects the choice of method. You’ll often need high-pressure washing for heavy dirt and grime build-up.
- Climate and Environmental Conditions: Denver’s dry climate, potential windstorms, and other harsh elements call for heavy-duty cleaning. Soft washing may not be enough to remove accumulated dirt, organic matter, and stubborn stains.
Advantages of Soft Washing
What’s the deal with soft washing your home? It offers several benefits, including the following:
- It effectively removes mold, mildew, and moss.
- Soft washing is environmentally friendly, thanks to biodegradable cleaning agents.
- It’s gentle on surfaces. This makes it ideal for Denver homes with delicate roofing or siding materials. It especially comes in handy if you have an older or more weathered home.
Advantages of Pressure Washing
Why should you choose pressure washing? It’s faster and more effective on tougher stains.
You can use it on hard surfaces like concrete or stone. This makes it perfect for cleaning driveways and brick exteriors in Denver homes and commercial properties.
Which Areas of Your Denver Property Should You Soft Wash and Pressure Wash?
Now that you understand the difference between soft washing and pressure washing in Denver, let’s see the areas suited for each method.
You should soft wash the following areas to avoid damage from high pressure:
- Roofs, especially asphalt shingles and tile
- House siding, whether vinyl, wood, or stucco
- Windows
- Wood and vinyl fences
Here are the best areas for pressure washing in your home:
- Concrete driveways
- Stone pathways
- Brick patios
- Decks and outdoor furniture with hard materials
Pressure washing goes beyond making these surfaces look their best. It helps extend their lifespan. This saves you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Tips for Maintaining Exterior Surfaces After Soft Washing or Pressure Washing
Have you just had your Denver home soft-washed or pressure-washed? How do you keep it clean and looking brand new until the next professional wash? Here are a few tips.
Regular Inspections
Inspect your home’s exterior at least once every month. Check for dirt, mold, mildew, stains, or other signs that might need attention. Identifying these issues early allows you to tackle them before they become more difficult to remove.
Spot Cleaning
Address localized dirt and small stains as soon as you notice them. Have water, a soft-bristled brush, and gentle detergent on hand for this task.
Don’t use abrasive cleaners or abrasive chemicals. You don’t want to damage the surface or remove the protective coating applied during pressure or soft washing.
Use Protective Treatments
Apply a sealant or other protective coating after cleaning your exterior surfaces. This helps reduce future build-up. Your property will remain clean for longer.
Gutter and Downspout Maintenance
Keep your gutters and downspouts free of debris. Clogged gutters often trap moisture against the walls. This, in turn, causes mold growth, stains, and structural damage.
Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
Denver’s semi-arid, high-desert climate characterized by heavy snowfalls, scorching sun, and dust storms can quickly turn your home’s exterior into a gunky mess. Make a habit of washing your siding, fence, and other outdoor areas at least once a year to maintain their original appearance and prevent long-term damage.
Why Choose Professional Exterior Cleaning Services in Denver?
DIY exterior cleaning sounds like a more cost-effective approach. Sadly, you risk damaging your surfaces or injuring yourself without the proper skills or equipment.
You’re better off hiring a qualified professional. This is especially true for larger properties or hard-to-reach areas.
Professionals have specialized equipment and knowledge to do the job safely and effectively. They often follow eco-friendly practices like sensible soft wash detergent application. This ensures compliance with local Denver regulations for water usage and chemical disposal.
Making the Right Choice for Your Denver Property
Choosing the right exterior cleaning method is essential for safety and quality results. Several factors need to be considered when choosing between soft washing and pressure washing. These include the surface type, dirt level, and specific Denver climate conditions.
An experienced professional can help you pick the best method. You can trust Platinum Pressure Washing for all your exterior cleaning needs in Denver.
Call 303-931-7300 to learn more about Platinum Pressure Washing services and get a free quote today!
