Soft Washing Vs. Pressure Washing: Which Is Best?
If you want to improve your property’s curb appeal, you’ve likely encountered the terms “soft washing” and “pressure washing.” This post explains the differences between these two surface cleaning methods and when to use each one.
Soft Washing
First, let’s discuss what a soft wash is. Soft washing is a powerful cleaning method (some would argue a superior method) that uses a low-pressure pump system to spray a specialized biodegradable cleaning solution mixed with water. This solution safely removes mildew, bacteria, algae, and other organic stains from roofs and other surfaces around your property.
Unlike pressure washing, which uses high-pressure water that can damage delicate surfaces like roof shingles, stucco, and vinyl siding, soft washing employs a gentle yet powerful low-pressure spray combined with specialized cleaning solutions.
Most soft washing professionals use sodium hypochlorite as their go-to cleaning solution, while others use sodium percarbonate. In both cases, they adjust the strength of the solution based on the amount of organic matter that needs treatment.
This method not only removes dirt, algae, moss, and other contaminants but also kills their root causes, preventing rapid return. Soft washing extends the lifespan of your surfaces, enhances curb appeal, and protects your investment.
Many believe that this is the smart and responsible choice for homeowners who care about their property’s health and appearance, especially when it comes to roof soft washing.
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is a more well-known process for cleaning surfaces because it has been around longer. It involves the use of a pressure washer, a machine equipped with a high-powered motor or engine that powers a pump, which increases the water pressure from a regular hose to a much higher level.
The high pressure created from this motor blasts away stains, grime, algae, and various other organic and non-organic growth. Pressure washing can effectively clean many different types of surfaces. However, due to the high pressure, pressure washing can potentially damage delicate surfaces like roof shingles, stucco, and certain types of siding.
Related: How To Clean Siding
Therefore, it’s important to use the appropriate pressure setting and nozzle for the specific surface being cleaned, and caution to avoid causing unnecessary damage.
That said, pressure washing is effective and is a very high-demand method for cleaning exterior surfaces, but it is not always the best. This method does have place when it comes to exterior cleaning services.
Soft Washing Vs. Pressure Washing
Below is a helpful breakdown of when you should consider using one method over the other. Ultimately though, the cleaning method you use comes down to preference, what you’re cleaning, and your appetite for risk.
Without further ado, here’s your guide:
the Soft Wash Vs. Pressure Washing

Final Thoughts
In the end, both washing methods are highly effectively. Soft washing is the go-to method for roof cleaning, house washing, and fence cleaning, while pressure washing is invaluable when it comes to cleaning driveways, concrete, and grimy hard surfaces.
In some cases, you may even want to use both methods on a surface for extra clean results. It ultimately comes down to what you the customer wants.
That said, here at Tough Task Pro, we specialize in soft washing as our exterior cleaning choice, but we’re not opposed to pressure washing when the job calls for it. So, if you’re looking to learn more about the soft washing, house washing, or roof cleaning services we offer throughout the San Antonio metro area, just click the button below or contact us at 210-201-2112, and we’ll be happy to help.