Pressure Cleaning vs Pressure Washing: What’s the Difference?

If your home or business is looking grungy on the outside, it’s probably time for a cleaning. You might be wondering whether you need pressure cleaning or pressure washing. You may have even heard the term “power washing” as well. 

Do they all mean the same thing? No, however, GWS Pressure Cleaning offers these services to help you restore a refreshed appearance to your residential or commercial exterior. In this blog post, we explain the differences between these terms and when you may need pressure cleaning services. 

What Is Pressure Cleaning?

Pressure cleaning is a method of cleaning exterior surfaces with highly pressurized water to get rid of buildup from mold, mildew, dirt, grime, oil, and other stubborn stains. It is used on concrete, brick, and siding materials. Water is pumped through a motorized pressure washing machine through a nozzle with enough force to effectively deep clean hard exterior surfaces. 

What Is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing is just another term for pressure cleaning. These terms can be used interchangeably, though pressure washing is most commonly mistaken for power washing, which is different. 

What About Power Washing?

Power washing also uses highly pressurized water, like pressure cleaning or pressure washing; however, it uses hot water. Power washing is best for very tough stains, such as grease or grime that is deeply embedded into surfaces.

What’s the Difference Between Pressure Cleaning, Pressure Washing, and Power Washing?

The biggest difference between these exterior cleaning methods is the temperature of the water used for cleaning. Power washing utilizes hot water, while pressure cleaning or pressure washing uses cold water. Here is a deeper look at these cleaning methods for residential and commercial properties:

Pressure Cleaning or Pressure Washing

Pressure cleaning uses water that is not heated, relying solely on the force of highly-pressurized water to remove dirt, grime, and other debris. It can be used on a wide array of exterior surfaces, such as decks, roofs, siding, and windows. Since some areas and materials are more sensitive, it is best to know the correct PSI to set the pressure washing machine to avoid causing damage. 

Power Washing

With power washing, hot water is used, making it a more suitable method for any hard, durable surface areas that can withstand high water pressure and heat. The hot water is best for breaking down tough stains or stuck-on material like grease, oil, or heavily soiled areas covered in mold, mildew, and dirt. 

Power washing is more heavy duty, making it the best choice for tougher jobs while pressure or power washing with cold water can be used for a broader spectrum of cleaning exterior surfaces. 

When Do You Need Pressure Cleaning or Power Washing?

Ideally, you should not wait until surfaces become dark and stained to have them cleaned. If you notice dirt, grime, mold, mildew, algae, or other stains on the exterior of your property, it’s time to get this job done. 

If you have a wooden deck, painted surface, siding, or anything composed of soft stone, pressure cleaning will be best. The heat from power washing can damage these surfaces. You may also want to have your exterior pressure cleaned if you are having it repainted. This can help the new paint adhere by removing the buildup of dirt. 

Power washing may need to be scheduled if you’ve encountered thick layers of grime, oil, or other substances on tougher surfaces, such as your concrete driveway, garage floor, or walkways. The hot water is also helpful for sanitizing the area when removing mold, mildew, and bacteria. While pressure cleaning can usually clear things up, some stubborn stains might need more work and hot water can get deep enough to draw embedded stains out. 

Power and Pressure Washing Benefits

Both pressure cleaning and power washing provide several benefits for homeowners and business owners alike. 

Boosted Curb Appeal

Remove years of grunge from the exterior, and your home will look brand new. Businesses will attract more customers with a pristine appearance, while homeowners can enjoy the potential of increased property values. 

Preventing Expensive Damage and Repairs

While your exterior may just look dirty, it likely has mold, algae, mildew, and other organic materials caked on it. These things can lead to decay and rot wood, or cause moisture intrusion, which can impact the longevity of siding, roofing, and other important features.

Improving Health and Safety

Pollen can build up on exterior surfaces, causing additional suffering to those who are sensitive to these allergens. Removing them creates a healthier living environment. It also keeps everyone safer. On walkways, driveways, decks, and patios, organic growth can become incredibly slippery, making it a huge hazard, especially for businesses that need to take extra precautions in maintaining their premises. 

Maintenance Tips for Homeowners to Maintain Their Surfaces After Pressure Cleaning Services

Whether pressure washing or power washing, you’ll want to maintain that fresh, clean look for your home for as long as possible. Applying a protective sealant to certain surfaces, such as your driveway or deck, can protect them from future stains and make it easier to keep them clean. 

Additionally, rinsing these exterior portions every week or so with a garden hose will keep dirt and other particles from clinging to the surface and turning into unsightly stains. If you spill anything on your garage floor, patio, deck, or driveway, clean it up right away as letting it sit tends to result in a permanent stain. 

Above all, don’t let too much time pass before having your surfaces pressure cleaned or power-washed. Once a year is generally advised, though more frequent cleanings may be needed if you live near the water. 

The Advantages of Choosing GWS Pressure Cleaning Professional Services

Anyone can rent a pressure cleaning machine, but only professionals can ensure that the job is done safely and right. Pressure washers can cause serious injuries when used incorrectly, and they can also cause damage to your property if you don’t use the right setting. GWS Pressure Cleaning has all the right equipment, eco-friendly cleaning solutions, and expert technicians to put your mind at ease. Contact us today to get an instant quote on our pressure cleaning services.