When it comes to protecting and maintaining the exterior of your home, choosing the right cleaning method matters more than most people realize. Homeowners often assume power washing works on everything — but depending on the type of siding you have, using the wrong washing method can lead to cracks, moisture damage, or even complete siding failure.
At Clean Start Exteriors, one of the most common questions we get is:
“Should I soft wash or power wash my siding?”
Today, we’re breaking down the differences so you can make the safest and smartest choice for your home — especially if you’re looking for trusted power washing in Hamilton.
What Is Power Washing?
Power washing uses high-pressure water, typically 2,000–3,000 PSI or more, to blast away:
- Dirt buildup
- Mold
- Algae
- Grease
- Stains on concrete and stone
It’s the best method for hard, durable surfaces like:
✔ Driveways
✔ Concrete patios
✔ Brick
✔ Pavers
✔ Pool decks
✔ Some stone surfaces
But NOT siding—at least not most siding.
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing uses low-pressure water (similar to a garden hose) combined with safe, biodegradable cleaning solutions to gently break down organic buildup.
It’s ideal for delicate surfaces like:
✔ Vinyl siding
✔ Wood siding
✔ Stucco
✔ Roof shingles
✔ Deck rails
✔ Painted surfaces
Soft washing doesn’t rely on pressure. Instead, the cleaning solution does the work, making it the safest approach for the majority of home exteriors.
Why Most Siding Should Never Be High-Pressure Washed
High-pressure water can easily:
- Force water behind your siding
- Break vinyl or crack older materials
- Strip paint
- Damage window seals
- Void warranties
- Create moisture pockets that lead to mold growth
These damages can cost hundreds or even thousands to repair.
This is why professional companies like Clean Start Exteriors choose the method based on your specific exterior — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Signs Your Siding Needs Soft Washing
You may notice:
- Green algae streaks
- Black mold spots
- Dirt film
- Spiderwebs and insects
- Chalky siding
- Dull, faded appearance
Soft washing revives siding safely and restores curb appeal without risking surface damage.
When Power Washing Is the Right Choice
Power washing is perfect for areas where stubborn grime won’t budge—typically strong surfaces that can handle high pressure, including:
- Concrete driveways
- Retaining walls
- Sidewalks
- Garage floors
- Brick patios
If the job involves siding, though, soft washing is almost always the better option.
Why Choose Clean Start Exteriors for Power Washing in Hamilton?
Our team doesn’t just spray water and hope for the best. We:
- Inspect your home’s materials
- Identify the safest method (soft or power)
- Use specialty cleaning formulas
- Protect landscaping and surrounding areas
- Rinse thoroughly for a spotless finish
With Clean Start Exteriors, your siding is cleaned the right way, not the risky way.
The Bottom Line
If you want to protect your siding, increase curb appeal, and avoid expensive damage, knowing the difference between soft washing and power washing is essential.
For safe, professional power washing in Hamilton, Clean Start Exteriors has you covered with proven methods tailored to your home.
