What softwashing does
Softwashing applies a cleaning solution at low pressure. The solution does the hard work, treating algae, lichen and organic staining at the source, and is then rinsed gently or left to keep working. Because there is no high-pressure jet, it is far gentler on painted render, dash, fascias and other surfaces that could be damaged by force.
What pressure washing does
Pressure washing uses a powerful jet of water to physically remove dirt, moss and grime. It is fast and effective on hard, durable surfaces. The trade-off is that the force can damage softer or painted surfaces, wash out jointing and pointing, and remove only the visible growth, leaving roots behind.
Which surfaces suit which method
It is worth remembering that one property can include several different surfaces. A typical house might have rendered walls, uPVC fascias, a block paved driveway, a slab patio and natural stone steps. Using one method for all of them rarely gets the best result. Part of our job when quoting is to look at each surface in turn and recommend the method that will clean it well without causing damage, and to explain that recommendation clearly in writing.
As a rule of thumb, delicate or painted vertical surfaces suit softwashing, while hard ground surfaces suit pressure washing. Some jobs use both, for example softwashing the walls and pressure washing the driveway on the same visit.
- ✓Render and pebble dash: softwash
- ✓Fascias, soffits and the outside of gutters: softwash
- ✓Red or green staining on walls: softwash
- ✓Block paving and concrete driveways: usually pressure wash
- ✓Paths, steps and slab patios: pressure wash, adjusted to the surface
- ✓Delicate natural stone: often softwash
How long results last
Because softwashing treats the growth itself rather than just stripping the surface, results on walls tend to stay clean for longer than a rinse with a pressure washer. On driveways, regrowth depends largely on shade, drainage and how much traffic the surface gets. Re-sanding block paving after cleaning helps reduce weeds in the joints.
And for roofs?
For roofs our main method is neither: we use the air-pole system to remove moss without walking on tiles. Softwashing can be useful for staining on some roof surfaces, and pressure washing is used only where it is genuinely needed on a specific area. Our guide comparing air roof cleaning with pressure washing explains why.
Not sure which you need?
You do not have to work it out yourself. Send us photos of the areas you want cleaned and we will recommend the right method for each one on a free written quote.
Frequently asked questions
Is softwashing safe for render?
Yes. It uses low pressure, so it is much gentler than a pressure washer on render and paint.
Can pressure washing damage my driveway?
It can wash out jointing sand and damage softer surfaces if used carelessly, so we adjust it to the surface and re-sand where quoted.
Can you do both on the same visit?
Yes. Many jobs combine softwashing walls with pressure washing ground surfaces.
Which is better for red staining on walls?
Softwashing, because it treats the algae that causes the staining.