POWER/PRESSURE WASHING VS. SOFT WASHING?

*

POWER/PRESSURE WASHING VS. SOFT WASHING? *

Soft washing

a low-pressure exterior cleaning method that uses a biodegradable cleaning solution (often bleach-based) and surfactants, applied with a low-pressure pump, to kill and remove organic growth like mold, mildew, and algae, providing a longer-lasting clean than high-pressure washing, especially on delicate surfaces like roofs, siding, and painted areas.  

How it works

  1. Protect delicate areas: Plants and other sensitive spots are covered. 

  2. Apply solution: A mix of water, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), and a surfactant is sprayed on the surface using a low-pressure system. 

  3. Dwell time: The solution sits for 10-15 minutes to kill and break down organic matter. 

  4. Rinse: The surface is rinsed with low pressure (often a garden hose or low-pressure tip). 

  5. Watch this short video to help explain the difference: What is Soft Washing?

Common Topics

  • Choosing Equipment: Hot vs. Cold water units, systems vs. standalone washers.

  • Cleaning Solutions: Using detergents, even common ones like Dawn, but properly diluted.

  • Maintenance: How pressure washing fits into routine building maintenance.

  • Common Mistakes: Forcing water into walls, chipping paint, damaging surfaces. 

PRICE OF PRESSURE/SOFT WASHING

Power washing prices generally range from $250 to $500+ for a house, averaging around $0.20 to $0.50 per square foot, with smaller jobs like driveways costing $100–$200, and larger projects or delicate surfaces like wood decks costing more, often $100–$300+ per project, depending heavily on your location, surface type, and the job's complexity (dirtiness, height). 

Typical Costs by Surface

  • House Exterior: $300 - $600 for a 2,000 sq ft home; $0.20 - $0.50 per sq ft.

  • Driveway/Sidewalk (Concrete): $100 - $200 for a standard driveway, or $0.25 - $0.40 per sq ft.

  • Deck/Patio: $100 - $300, sometimes more for delicate wood (around $0.40 - $0.80/sq ft).

  • Roof Cleaning (Soft Washing): $250 - $600+. 

Factors Influencing Price

  • Square Footage: Larger areas often lower the per-square-foot rate.

  • Surface Material: Vinyl is cheaper; wood, painted surfaces, or delicate materials cost more.

  • Dirt/Stains: Heavy mold, mildew, oil, or rust will increase costs.

  • Height & Accessibility: Multi-story homes or hard-to-reach areas add labor time and cost.

  • Location: Urban areas generally have higher rates. 

Pricing Models

  • Per Square Foot: Common for large areas ($0.10 - $0.80/sq ft).

  • Per Hour: $100 - $200/hour for general work, up to $300/hour for rust/oil removal.

  • Flat Rate: A fixed price for the entire job.