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North Texas homeowner guide

Pressure washing vs soft washing: which does your house need?

Pressure washing uses high-pressure water and is right for hard surfaces like concrete driveways, sidewalks and patios. Soft washing uses low pressure plus cleaning solutions and is the safe choice for siding, painted surfaces, stucco and roofs. Most homes need both, on different surfaces.

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Quick checks

Start here

  • 1

    Concrete: pressure wash

  • 2

    Siding and stucco: soft wash

  • 3

    Roof: soft wash only

  • 4

    Wood fences: low pressure

Written for DFW homes

Where pressure washing works

  • Concrete driveways, sidewalks and patios
  • Pool decks and garage floors
  • Brick paths, with care

Where soft washing is safer

  • Vinyl, fiber cement and painted siding
  • Stucco and stone veneer
  • Roofs, where high pressure can strip shingle granules
  • Painted or stained wood

North Texas stains to know about

Red clay, rust and oil stains on concrete often need a pre-treatment, not just more pressure. Mildew on shaded north-facing walls and spring pollen buildup are best handled with soft washing.

What to ask a pro

  • Which method will you use on each surface?
  • How will you protect plants, windows and outlets?
  • Do you carry liability insurance?
  • Is the price per surface or for the whole job?

FAQ

Common questions

Can pressure washing damage siding?

Yes. Too much pressure can force water behind siding, strip paint and etch surfaces. Soft washing avoids that.

Is soft washing more expensive?

It depends on the job. Pricing is usually by surface and square footage. See our DFW pressure washing cost guide.

How often should I wash my house in DFW?

Once a year is enough for most homes, often in spring after pollen season.

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Pressure Washing vs Soft Washing: Which Do You Need?