When you gaze upon your home’s exterior, do you notice a build-up of dirt, grime or unsightly stains? These unsavoury marks can accumulate over time, detracting from your home’s curb appeal and overall aesthetic. If your once-clean siding, deck or driveway has lost its gleam, it may indicate that it’s time to consider a pressure washer service.
By utilizing a concentrated stream of water at high pressure, pressure washing can effectively remove mould and mildew, eliminating their presence and restoring your home to a safer and more hygienic environment.
What is Pressure Washing and What are the Different Types?
Looking at power wash vs pressure wash and even soft wash might be confusing. Power washing uses high-pressure water spray to remove dirt, grime, mould, mildew and other impurities from various surfaces. It is a versatile and efficient technique commonly employed for residential cleaning purposes. There are different types of power washing techniques that you could use, each tailored to specific cleaning needs. Learn how power washing works with the three main types:

Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is a versatile technique commonly used for all sectors, from residential to agriculture. It offers a powerful solution for dirt and grime removal. These organisms thrive in moist environments and can cause discoloration and deterioration of surfaces. The high-pressure water spray helps to kill the spores, preventing regrowth and improving the overall cleanliness and appearance of the surface.
When using a pressure washer, choose the appropriate nozzle or attachment based on the surface and the level of cleaning required. Different nozzles produce different spray patterns, such as a narrow, concentrated stream for tough stains or a wider fan-like spray for larger surface areas.
Soft Washing
Soft washing is a gentle and low-pressure wash technique that uses a combination of specialized cleaning solutions and a mild water spray to safely and effectively clean delicate surfaces. Soft washing is gentle to prevent damage to sensitive materials.
A specially formulated cleaning solution combines biodegradable detergents, bleach, hydrogen peroxide and water. The pressure washing detergent is carefully chosen based on the type of surface and the specific contaminants present, such as mould, mildew, algae or moss.
The low-pressure and gentle nature of soft washing can be used on roofs, exterior walls, painted surfaces, vinyl siding, wood decks and more. Soft washing is particularly beneficial for surfaces where high-pressure water could cause harm or compromise the integrity of the material.

Surface Cleaning Washing
A pressure washer surface cleaner is a powerful tool designed for efficient and even cleaning of large flat surfaces. It typically consists of a circular enclosure with rotating nozzles that distribute water pressure evenly across the surface. This tool is attached to a pressure washer and is particularly effective for large, flat areas.
Benefits of Using a Surface Cleaner Attachment
- Efficiency: Cleans large areas quickly compared to standard pressure washing nozzles.
- Uniform Cleaning: Provides consistent cleaning results without leaving streaks or lines, often seen with regular nozzles.
- Reduced Splash Back: The enclosed design minimizes water and debris splashing back at the operator.
- Versatility: Suitable for various surfaces, including concrete, pavers, tiles, and other flat surfaces.
- Less Strain on the Operator: Easier to use over large areas, reducing physical strain and fatigue.
What Outdoor Spaces Can Power Washing Transform?
Power washing can significantly enhance the appearance and cleanliness of different outdoor surfaces. Some of the outdoor spaces where you can use high-pressure wash to transform the space include:
- Driveways and walkways: Power washing can effectively remove tough stains and restore the vibrancy of your concrete, asphalt or stone surfaces.
- Decks and patios: Exposure to the elements can cause these surfaces to accumulate dirt and algae. Power washing can revitalize your deck or patio by removing these unsightly elements and restoring their natural beauty.
- Siding and exterior walls: The exterior of your home can accumulate dirt, dust, cobwebs, mould and mildew over time. These contaminants can lead to deterioration if left untreated. Power washing can effectively remove these unwanted substances.
- Fences and gates: Fences and gates can suffer from dirt build-up, grime, algae growth and even peeling paint. It can also prepare the surface for repainting or staining, helping to prolong the life of your fences and gates and maintaining their visual appeal.
- Outdoor furniture and play equipment: Power washing can easily remove dirt, cobwebs and other debris from these items, restoring their cleanliness and making them ready for outdoor enjoyment.

How High-Pressure Jets Blast Away Dirt, Grime & More
The high-pressure force generated by these jets can be powerful, providing a thorough and efficient cleaning of unwanted substances.
Each of these substances can effectively be tackled by the jets:
- Mould: Mould is a fungus that thrives in damp and humid environments. It appears as black or greenish patches and can be detrimental to the appearance and health of surfaces.
- Mildew: Another type of fungus that resembles a powdery or downy growth on surfaces. You often find it in areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms or damp basements.
- Algae: A small, plant-like organism that thrives in moist and shaded areas. They typically appear as green or brownish growth on surfaces such as decks, patios, roofs and sidewalks.
- Grime: A combination of dirt, grease and other substances accumulating on surfaces over time. It can give surfaces a sticky or grimy feel and diminish their appearance.
- Moss: A small, non-vascular plant that appears as a green, fuzzy growth on surfaces such as roofs, sidewalks and stones.
- Lichens on Roofs: Lichens are a combination of fungi and algae that form a symbiotic relationship. They often appear as patches or growths on roofs, particularly in areas with high humidity.
- Gloeocapsa Magma: Gloeocapsa magma is a type of bacteria that contributes to the black streaks or stains often seen on roofs.
Adjusting Pressure and Techniques for Different Materials
Power washing is a cleaning method that can be tailored to different materials and surfaces by adjusting the water pressure, selecting appropriate detergents and employing specific techniques. When adjusting the pressure, it’s crucial to start with a lower setting and gradually increase if necessary while always prioritizing preserving the material’s integrity. Incorporate safe power washing techniques to prevent damage.
- Maintain distance: Keep a safe distance between the nozzle and the surface being cleaned. Start with a greater distance and gradually move closer to assess the impact of the water stream and prevent unnecessary damage.
- The angle of the spray: Hold the nozzle at a 45-degree angle to the surface, directing the water stream in a downward motion.
- Even and overlapping strokes: Use even and overlapping strokes to ensure thorough and consistent cleaning. It helps prevent streaking and ensures that all areas receive adequate cleaning.
- Test on an inconspicuous area: Before power washing the entire surface, test the power washer on an inconspicuous area to assess the impact.
- Avoid direct pressure on joints or seams: Be cautious when power washing surfaces with joints, seams or caulking, such as windows or doors. Instead, use a lower pressure or a different cleaning method in those areas.
Bring Perfect Power Wash in to Do the Job
Power Wash Solutions has the expertise and attention to detail to ensure that every part of your home, from the walls to the gutters, receives a thorough and gentle cleaning. Take advantage of our convenient scheduling, competitive pricing and transparent invoicing process.
Breathe a little easier with a cleaner, healthier home.
[…] the humid-induced mould in coastal areas or the dust and debris in the Midlands, tailoring pressure washing to the local climate ensures that homes and buildings are clean, well-maintained, and protected […]
[…] mutter that you looking for something that has a low pressure option for solar panels, but a high pressure option for the roof. You explain that you not too keen […]
[…] Pressure Washing for Precision: After the detergent had taken effect, we began pressure washing around the edges of the driveway and courtyard. This step was essential for creating a crisp, clean […]
[…] all pressure washers are created equal. For most home projects, a light to medium-duty pressure washer should do the trick. These are perfect for cleaning decks, patios, and siding without the fear of […]
[…] equipment used in high pressure washing includes a pressure washer machine which pumps water and expels it through a high-pressure hose and nozzle. The pressure of the water […]