High-Pressure Cleaning – Frequently Asked Questions

Process & Safety (Protecting Your Property)

1. Will high-pressure cleaning damage my paint or timber?

Not when done correctly. This is the most common concern we hear, and rightly so—in inexperienced hands, a pressure washer can strip paint and damage wood. We use a technique called "Soft Washing" for delicate surfaces (like house facades, eaves, and timber). This relies on specialized cleaning solutions to lift the dirt, followed by a low-pressure rinse, rather than blasting it with high force.

2. What is the difference between "Pressure Washing" and "Soft Washing"?

It comes down to the force used.

• Pressure Washing: Uses high-velocity water to mechanically blast away grime. We use this on hard, durable surfaces like concrete driveways and paved pathways.

• Soft Washing: Uses a specialized eco-friendly cleaning solution to break down mold and dirt, followed by a gentle rinse (about the strength of a garden hose). We use this on house exteriors, roofs, and painted surfaces to ensure no damage occurs.

3. Will the cleaning chemicals harm my plants, lawn, or pets?

We take great care to protect your garden. We pre-wet all plants before applying any cleaning agents (so they don't absorb the chemical) and rinse them thoroughly afterward. However, as a precaution, we recommend keeping pets inside during the cleaning process and for a short time afterward until the surfaces are dry.

4. Can you clean delicate surfaces like sandstone or older brickwork?

Yes, but we treat them differently. Sandstone and old brick are porous and soft. blasting them can cause "pitting" (holes in the stone). We use specific lower-pressure settings and appropriate treatment agents to clean these surfaces effectively without eroding the stone itself.

5. Will water get inside my house under the doors or through windows?

We take every precaution to prevent this. We ask that you close and latch all windows and doors tightly before we arrive. During the job, we are mindful of the angle of spray around frames. If you have older seals that you are worried about, let us know, and we can place towels inside the threshold as a backup measure.

Stains & Results (Managing Expectations)

6. Can you remove old oil stains from my driveway?

We believe in being 100% honest with our clients: Old oil stains are incredibly difficult to remove completely because the oil soaks deep into the porous concrete. We use industrial-grade degreasers (if required) to lift as much as possible. We can usually significantly lighten the stain and make it far less visible, but we cannot promise it will vanish entirely if it has been there for a long time.

7. Will the black mold and green algae come back?

Eventually, yes—it is nature, after all. However, our cleaning process removes the spores that cause the regrowth. To keep your property looking its best, most clients book us for a "maintenance clean" once a year (or every 18 months), which is often quicker and cheaper than the initial deep clean.

8. Does pressure cleaning remove rust or bore water stains?

Standard pressure cleaning won't remove rust—it requires a chemical reaction. If you have rust marks or orange staining from bore water, please let us know in advance. We can apply a specialized rust-removal treatment to lift these stains, though deep-set rust may leave a permanent mark.

9. Will my driveway look "brand new" after cleaning?

It will look significantly better, brighter, and cleaner! However, pressure cleaning reveals the condition of the surface underneath the dirt. If the concrete has cracks or physical wear and tear, cleaning will make the surface clean, but it won't fix the physical damage.

Logistics & Preparation

11. Do I need to be home while you are cleaning?

Not necessarily. As long as we have clear access to an external water tap and the areas we need to clean, we can do the job while you are at work. We can send you "before and after" photos once we are finished so you can see the quality of the work.

12. Do I need to provide access to a water tap?

Yes. We require access to a standard external water tap. Our machines are designed to connect to your residential supply. If you have low water pressure, please let us know beforehand.

13. How much water does the process use? Is it wasteful?

Surprisingly, professional pressure cleaning is often more water-efficient than using a garden hose. Our commercial-grade machines use air and pressure to amplify the cleaning power, meaning we get the job done much faster and use less water overall than if you tried to scrub it yourself with a hose.

14. What do I need to do to prepare?

To help us get the best results:

• Please park cars on the street or away from the driveway.

• Remove pot plants, doormats, and outdoor furniture from the area to be cleaned.

• Ensure all windows and doors are tightly closed.

• Secure your pets inside.

15. How long does it take for the surface to dry?

On a sunny day, concrete usually dries within 1 to 2 hours. We recommend waiting until the surface is completely dry before parking your car on it or putting furniture back to avoid tracking dirt onto the clean surface.

Honest Pricing. Quality Results. Stop guessing and start cleaning. We provide transparent, upfront quotes with no hidden fees. Contact us today to discuss your project and find a solution that fits your budget.