Soft washing vs pressure washing: what's the difference?

Different surfaces need different techniques. That's why I use two completely different methods depending on what I'm cleaning — high-pressure for the tough stuff, gentle soft washing for everything else.

Pressure washing — the workhorse

High-pressure water (typically 2,500–3,500 PSI through a rotary nozzle) blasts dirt off hard, durable surfaces. Perfect for block paving, concrete driveways, paving slabs and tarmac.

Soft washing — the gentle giant

Soft washing uses low pressure (about the same as a garden hose) combined with a biocide chemical that kills algae, moss and lichen at the root. Surfaces are left visibly clean and stay that way for far longer than pressure washing alone.

When to use which

• Render & K-Rend walls — soft wash only (high pressure cracks the finish)
• Roof tiles — soft wash only (pressure washing strips the protective coating)
• Block paving driveways — pressure wash, then re-sand the joints
• Patios & flagstones — pressure wash, optional sealing afterwards
• Decking — low pressure with a fan nozzle
• Cladding & fences — soft wash

The right tool for the job — every time.

Not sure what yours needs?

Send me a photo via WhatsApp or the quote form and I'll tell you straight which method I'd use and what it'd cost.