Why Not Do It Yourself
Homeowners might be tempted to do their own pressure washing or soft washing, but in many cases, hiring a professional is the safer, more cost-effective, and more effective choice. Here’s why:
1. You Can Easily Damage Surfaces
- Too much pressure can:
- Strip paint
- Etch concrete
- Destroy wood or siding
- Tear up sealants or caulking
- Soft washing requires the correct chemical mix — misapplication can kill plants or discolor surfaces.
Example: One wrong nozzle or PSI setting can permanently damage vinyl siding or leave “zebra striping” on your roof or truck.
2. Improper Chemical Use Is Dangerous
- Soft washing involves bleach-based or detergent solutions.
- DIYers often over-apply or use the wrong ratios, leading to:
- Corrosion of metal or boat surfaces
- Toxic runoff into soil and drains
- Damage to landscaping or water features
- Professionals are trained in safe mixing and environmental protection.
3. Safety Risks Are High
- Slippery surfaces, ladders, hoses, and high-pressure spray can cause:
- Falls or electrical shock (if working near outlets or panels)
- Injuries to skin or eyes
- Professionals wear PPE (gloves, goggles, harnesses) and follow OSHA safety practices.
4. Most DIY Setups Lack Proper Equipment
- Residential-grade washers don’t compare to professional-grade rigs.
- Professionals have:
- Surface cleaners for even pressure on concrete
- Soft-wash systems with low-pressure pumps and custom nozzles
- The result is deeper cleaning without streaks or damage.
5. It’s Not as Cheap as You Think
- Renting or buying pressure washing equipment + cleaning agents can cost hundreds.
- DIY often leads to:
- Redoing the job
- Hiring a pro anyway to fix issues
- Repairs from accidental damage
Professionals often charge less than the cost of doing it wrong.
6. Results Are Noticeably Better
- Pros know:
- The correct techniques for each surface (house siding vs. brick vs. boats)
- How to reach tricky areas like roof edges or under trailers
- How to clean without leaving residue or stripes
- They use pre- and post-treatments
- for mold, algae, oil stains, or oxidation — DIYs usually skip these steps.
7. Trucks, Boats, and Commercial Equipment Require Expertise
- Marine coatings, aluminum siding, and painted rigs all have different tolerances.
- The wrong method can strip wax, ruin decals, or void warranties.
- Pros often use deionized water, foam cannons, or fleet-safe degreasers.
Summary: Why Homeowners Should Hire a Pro
- Risk: What Could Go Wrong
- Damage: Paint stripping, etched concrete, ruined windows
- Safety: Slips, electrical shock, chemical burns
- Cost: Equipment + chemicals + time + repairs = $$$
- Appearance: Streaks, uneven cleaning, missed spots
- Special Materials: Boats, trucks, metal and glass need tailored care
Bottom line: Pressure washing and soft washing look easy, but doing it wrong can cost far more than hiring a pro. The right technician protects your property and delivers safer, better results. Give yourself more time with your family by letting Dove's Soft Wash do a professional and excellent job for you at affordable pricing.
