Difference between Pressure Washing and Power Washing

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as witnessing layers of dirt disappear. You can be assured that professional pressure washing delivers remarkable results. When it comes to tackling stubborn grime, regular cleaning falls short, making pressure washing or power washing the go-to solutions—but what’s the difference between them?

What is the Difference between Power Washing and Pressure Washing?

What sets power washing apart from pressure washing is the temperature difference between the water and the pounds per square inch (PSI). Power washing uses hot water and high pressure to effectively remove grime and clean surfaces, which sets it apart from pressure washing, which uses unheated water.

What is Power Washing?

Power washing involves using hot water along with high-pressure blasts, setting it apart. It’s important to note that professional-grade power washers, which are heavier-duty machines, should not be acquired without proper training due to their potential danger.

Water Temperature:

Up to 311°F
Pounds per Square Inch (PSI):

1,500 to 4,400+ PSI

Best Application Surfaces:

Walkways, Concrete

 

What is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing offers a highly effective solution for cleaning various home surfaces without heating water, unlike power washers. However, it’s crucial to note that the pressure can still be dangerously high, and it’s best to practice safety precautions when using a pressure washer.

Water Temperature:

Up to 140°F

Pounds per Square Inch (PSI):

1,500 to 4,400+ PSI

Best Application Surfaces:

Stone, Driveways

 

The main distinction between pressure washing and power washing boils down to one thing – the heat.

What is Better Power Washing or Pressure Washing?

After understanding the difference between power washing and pressure washing, you may wonder which one is better. The answer is that it depends on your specific requirements and preferences. For an effective home cleaner with minimal risk of damage, choose pressure washing. It ensures thorough cleaning without compromising surfaces.

When it comes to bigger jobs, power washing becomes the better choice because it cleans faster and more efficiently. The warm water makes it easier to shake off dirt and even assists in getting rid of weeds and the like.

What are the Signs that It’s Time for Exterior Cleaning?

There are noticeable and less obvious signals indicating it’s time to focus on your home’s exterior. Enhancing your home’s look is one reason to opt for pressure washing, but professionals should be called in when there are other subtle signs beyond surface appearance.
Here are some signs that show it’s time for exterior cleaning:

  • Stains on Your Roof: Seeing streaks or discoloration on your roof is more than just a cosmetic problem – it’s an eyesore. If left unchecked, algae can cause serious damage, and fixing that damage can be much more expensive than regular professional roof cleaning.
  • Energy Bills Increased: Sometimes, the dirt on your home’s exterior can affect temperature regulation. This makes your furnace, heat pump, or gas fireplace work harder, leading to higher energy bills.
  • Overflowing Gutters: Neglecting gutter cleaning is common, but it’s crucial. When gutters are clogged and overflowing, water can’t drain, leading to potential damage to your roof and home. Regular gutter cleaning, along with pressure cleaning, prevents these issues from worsening.
  • Molds and Mildew: Not only do they look bad, but mold and mildew can also weaken your home’s structure and pose health risks, especially black mold. It’s crucial to bring in professional help to handle mold issues. Professional roof cleaning not only removes mold but also helps prevent its return using detergents and bleach.

Conclusion

To sum up, the satisfaction of seeing dirt vanish is a guaranteed result of effective professional pressure washing. One important factor that distinguishes power washing from pressure washing is the use of heated water in power washing. For your home, pressure washing stands out as a safer and better choice, ensuring thorough cleaning without compromising surfaces. If you need professional help, especially with bigger jobs that have specific requirements, you can contact Window Hero to get a free estimate.

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