When it comes to cleaning your home’s exterior, it’s easy to assume all washing services are the same — but there’s a big difference between soft washing and pressure washing. At Summit Professional Services, we offer both methods to help homeowners across Dartmouth, MA and the surrounding South Coast keep their homes clean, safe, and beautiful.
Understanding the difference can help you choose the right method for your home and avoid costly damage.
🧪 What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing uses low-pressure water (under 500 PSI) combined with eco-friendly cleaning agents to remove mold, algae, dirt, and mildew. It’s designed for delicate or porous surfaces where high pressure might cause harm.
Best for:
- Vinyl and wood siding
- Roof shingles (especially asphalt)
- Painted surfaces
- Stucco and Dryvit
- Decks and fences
Benefits of Soft Washing:
- Prevents surface damage
- Kills organic growth at the root
- Extends the life of your exterior materials
- Ideal for homes near the coast (like Dartmouth and Somerset!)
🔧 What Is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing uses high-powered water spray (1,300–3,000 PSI or more) to blast away grime, grease, loose paint, and built-up dirt. It’s best for harder surfaces that can withstand direct force.
Best for:
- Concrete driveways
- Brick and stone patios
- Sidewalks and retaining walls
- Pool areas
- Commercial exterior hardscapes
Benefits of Pressure Washing:
- Removes years of buildup quickly
- Ideal for prepping surfaces before sealing or painting
- Leaves driveways and patios looking brand new
⚠️ When to Avoid Pressure Washing
Many homeowners unknowingly damage their homes by using pressure washing where soft washing is safer. High pressure on siding or roof shingles can:
- Strip paint or stain
- Crack or dent vinyl
- Dislodge shingles or flashing
- Force water behind walls, leading to mold or rot
That’s why Summit’s trained technicians assess each surface before recommending a method — ensuring your home is cleaned safely and effectively.
📍 Local Insight: South Coast Massachusetts Service Areas
In coastal towns like Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fall River, Somerset, and Taunton, soft washing is often the smarter choice due to:
- Salt air buildup from the ocean and harbor areas
- Seasonal pollen, mold, and algae growth
- Older or historic homes with sensitive siding and roofing
- Shaded areas with consistent moisture and mildew
Our team at Summit is based right here in the South Coast region, so we understand the unique environmental factors that affect local homes. Whether you’re in Bliss Corner, Russells Mills, or along Route 6, we’ll recommend the safest and most effective exterior cleaning method for your property.
🔁 Which Should You Choose?
| Surface | Method | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Roof (Asphalt) | Soft Wash | Prevents granule loss and moisture damage |
| Vinyl Siding | Soft Wash | Safe, streak-free results |
| Brick Patio | Pressure Wash | High pressure removes grime between joints |
| Wood Deck | Soft Wash (usually) | Gentle enough to protect soft wood |
Not sure what’s right for your home? We’re happy to inspect your property and recommend the right solution.
❓ FAQs About Soft & Pressure Washing
Can I pressure wash my roof?
Not safely. Roofs should always be soft washed to avoid dislodging shingles or causing leaks.
Does soft washing really work?
Yes — especially for algae, mildew, and mold. The biodegradable cleaners break down organic buildup at its source.
Is one more expensive than the other?
It depends on the surface and size. Soft washing can sometimes be more labor-intensive, but it’s worth it for delicate areas.
📞 Get Expert Exterior Cleaning Help in Dartmouth & Surrounding Areas
At Summit Professional Services, we proudly serve homeowners in Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fall River, Somerset, and Taunton, MA. Whether you’re refreshing your roof, siding, or patio, our soft and pressure washing solutions are tailored to local conditions and built to last.
👉 Request your free quote today or call 774-319-6373 to schedule your service.
