When it comes to exterior cleaning, many homeowners in Cornwall assume there’s only one solution — pressure washing. In reality, using the wrong cleaning method can cause serious and expensive damage to your property.
In Cornwall’s coastal climate, choosing between soft washing and pressure washing is critical. Each method has a specific purpose, and knowing which one is right for your home can protect surfaces, improve results, and save you money long term.
At Jet Power Pressure Washing, we specialise in both techniques and tailor every clean to the property — not the other way around.
This guide explains the difference, the benefits of each method, and what works best for Cornwall homes.
Why Cornwall Homes Need the Right Cleaning Method
Cornwall properties face challenges that homes in many other parts of the UK simply don’t:
- Salt-laden sea air
- High moisture levels
- Frequent rainfall
- Fast algae, moss, and lichen growth
- Limited drying time
These conditions accelerate exterior contamination and make incorrect cleaning methods far more risky.
Using excessive pressure on the wrong surface can:
- Etch render
- Strip paint
- Damage pointing
- Force water behind walls
That’s why understanding the difference between soft washing and pressure washing matters.
What Is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing (also known as jet washing) uses high-pressure water to physically remove dirt, algae, and grime from hard surfaces.
Best surfaces for pressure washing:
- Driveways
- Patios
- Paths
- Block paving
- Concrete and stone
When done professionally, pressure washing is extremely effective — but only on surfaces designed to handle high pressure.
Benefits of Pressure Washing in Cornwall
- Instantly removes heavy dirt and algae
- Restores original surface colour
- Improves safety on slippery areas
- Boosts kerb appeal quickly
Pressure washing is ideal for hard landscaping, which is heavily affected by Cornwall’s damp conditions.
When Pressure Washing Is NOT Suitable
Pressure washing should never be used on:
- Rendered walls
- Painted surfaces
- Roof tiles
- Delicate masonry
- Timber cladding
Unfortunately, this is where many DIY attempts and inexperienced contractors cause damage.
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a low-pressure cleaning method that uses specialist cleaning solutions to safely remove organic growth.
Instead of blasting dirt away, soft washing:
- Kills algae, moss, and lichen at the root
- Breaks down staining gently
- Prevents rapid regrowth
- Protects delicate surfaces
It’s the preferred method for most house exteriors in Cornwall.
Best surfaces for soft washing:
- Rendered walls
- Painted exteriors
- Brickwork
- Stonework
- Roof tiles
Soft washing is particularly effective on coastal properties, where algae and lichen grow aggressively.
Soft Washing vs Pressure Washing: Key Differences
| Feature | Soft Washing | Pressure Washing |
|---|---|---|
| Water pressure | Very low | High |
| Cleaning method | Chemical treatment | Physical force |
| Best for | Delicate surfaces | Hard surfaces |
| Risk of damage | Very low | High if misused |
| Longevity of results | Longer-lasting | Shorter if no treatment |
For most Cornwall homes, both methods are used together — just on different surfaces.
Why Soft Washing Is Often Best for Cornwall Homes
Cornwall’s climate makes soft washing particularly valuable.
Soft washing:
- Prevents algae returning quickly
- Reduces moisture retention
- Protects render and paint
- Extends surface lifespan
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that blasting walls with pressure often makes algae return faster, as spores are not fully removed.
Soft washing eliminates the root cause.
Pressure Washing Still Has an Important Role
While soft washing is ideal for walls and delicate surfaces, pressure washing remains essential for:
- Driveways exposed to traffic grime
- Patios affected by algae and food spills
- Slippery paths and steps
At Jet Power Pressure Washing, pressure is carefully adjusted for each surface to ensure maximum cleaning without damage.
The Dangers of Using the Wrong Method
Using the wrong cleaning technique can lead to:
- Permanent surface damage
- Water ingress behind render
- Stripped paint or coatings
- Cracked pointing
- Costly repairs
If a contractor claims they “pressure wash everything,” that’s a red flag — especially in Cornwall.
Professional exterior cleaning is about method selection, not just power.
DIY vs Professional Exterior Cleaning
DIY pressure washers are often marketed as easy solutions, but they come with real risks.
Common DIY issues include:
- Uneven streaking
- Etched surfaces
- Damaged joints
- Incomplete algae removal
Professional cleaners understand:
- Correct pressure levels
- Surface compatibility
- Chemical treatments
- Cornwall-specific conditions
That expertise makes all the difference.
How Jet Power Pressure Washing Chooses the Right Method
Every property we clean is assessed individually.
We look at:
- Surface material
- Level of contamination
- Exposure to coastal conditions
- Age and condition of the property
From there, we decide whether soft washing, pressure washing, or a combination of both will deliver the best long-term result.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach — and that’s exactly how it should be.
How Often Should Exterior Cleaning Be Done in Cornwall?
For most Cornwall homes, we recommend:
- Soft washing walls: Every 1–2 years
- Pressure washing driveways & patios: Once or twice per year
- Window cleaning: Every 4–8 weeks
- Roofline & gutters: Annually
Regular maintenance reduces costs and prevents surface deterioration.
Why Choose Jet Power Pressure Washing?
Jet Power Pressure Washing is a trusted local specialist in soft washing and pressure washing in Cornwall.
Homeowners choose us because we offer:
- Local coastal climate expertise
- Correct cleaning methods for every surface
- Commercial-grade equipment
- Safe, insured services
- Honest advice — not shortcuts
Our goal is not just to clean your home, but to protect it.
Final Thoughts: The Right Method Makes All the Difference
In Cornwall’s coastal climate, exterior cleaning is about more than appearances. Choosing the right method protects your home, prevents damage, and delivers results that last.
Soft washing and pressure washing both have their place — but only when used correctly.
If you’re unsure what your home needs, professional advice can save you time, money, and unnecessary repairs.
Book Professional Exterior Cleaning in Cornwall
If you’re considering exterior cleaning and want it done properly and safely, Jet Power Pressure Washing is here to help.
👉 Get expert advice on soft washing vs pressure washing
👉 Protect your home from Cornwall’s coastal conditions
👉 Book a professional exterior clean with confidence
Contact Jet Power Pressure Washing today for a free, no-obligation quote and let us recommend the right solution for your home.
