Soft washing uses low pressure and a cleaning solution, and suits painted walls, render, cladding, eaves and roofs. Pressure washing uses high-pressure water and suits hard surfaces like concrete, pavers and brick paths. Most homes need a mix of both.
What is soft washing?
Soft washing applies a cleaning solution at low pressure to break down mould, algae, cobwebs and grime, then rinses it away gently. Because it kills the growth rather than just blasting the surface, results usually last longer.
It is the right choice for painted weatherboard, render, cladding, eaves, gutters and most roofs.
What is pressure washing?
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water, often with a rotary surface cleaner, to lift dirt, oil, moss and staining from hard surfaces. It is ideal for concrete driveways, paths, pool surrounds, pavers and some brickwork.
Used on the wrong surface, high pressure can strip paint, etch render, force water behind cladding and damage roof tiles.
Which surfaces suit which method
- Painted walls, render, cladding: soft wash
- Eaves, gutters and fascias: soft wash
- Tile and Colorbond roofs: soft wash
- Concrete driveways and paths: pressure wash
- Pavers, pool surrounds, retaining walls: pressure wash (with care)
Protecting your garden
A good operator pre-wets plants, uses biodegradable detergents and rinses thoroughly afterwards, so gardens, lawns and pets are protected.
Common questions
How often should I wash my house?
As a general guide, every 12–24 months. Coastal homes and shaded walls may need it more often, and it is worth doing before selling or repainting.
Can I pressure wash my render?
High pressure can etch or damage render and paint. A soft wash is the safer way to clean rendered and painted walls.
Need help with house washing?
We service the Central Coast, Newcastle & Lake Macquarie and Sydney’s North Shore.