What is the Difference Between Power Washing and Pressure Washing?

Chelsey Smith • April 7, 2025

When it comes to keeping your home or business looking its best, exterior cleaning is a must. At Clean Start Exteriors, we often hear customers ask: What’s the difference between power washing and pressure washing? While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are key distinctions that can impact the results of your cleaning project. Whether you're in need of Power Washing Hamilton or just curious about the best method for your property, this guide will break it down for you.

Pressure Washing: The Basics

Pressure washing involves using a high-pressure stream of water to blast away dirt, grime, mold, and other debris from surfaces like siding, driveways, or decks. The force of the water alone does the heavy lifting, making it an effective method for tackling stubborn buildup. At Clean Start Exteriors, we use top-of-the-line pressure washing equipment to ensure a thorough clean without damaging your property.


This method is ideal for hard surfaces that can withstand intense water pressure, such as concrete or brick. However, it’s worth noting that pressure washing typically uses cold water, which might not be enough for certain types of grime—like grease or oil stains.


Power Washing: Taking It Up a Notch

Power washing, on the other hand, takes things a step further by adding heat to the equation. Essentially, power washing is pressure washing with hot water. The combination of high pressure and heated water makes it especially effective for removing tough, stuck-on substances like grease, gum, or deeply embedded dirt. At Clean Start Exteriors, we recommend power washing for jobs that require a little extra muscle, such as cleaning commercial exteriors or heavily soiled surfaces.


If you’re searching for Power Washing in Hamilton, We might be the perfect solution for revitalizing your property, especially if it hasn’t been cleaned in a while. The heat helps sanitize surfaces too, making it a great choice for areas where hygiene is a priority.


Key Differences at a Glance

Water Temperature: Pressure washing uses cold water, while power washing uses heated water.

Cleaning Power: Power washing’s heat gives it an edge for greasy or oily messes, while pressure washing works well for general dirt and grime.

Applications: Pressure washing is gentler and better suited for residential surfaces like siding or fences, whereas power washing shines in heavy-duty or commercial settings.


Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between power washing and pressure washing depends on your specific needs. For most homeowners in Hamilton looking to refresh their exteriors, pressure washing might do the trick. But if you’re dealing with tougher stains or want a deeper clean, power washing could be the way to go. At Clean Start Exteriors, we’re experts in both methods and can help you decide what’s best for your property.


Why Choose Clean Start Exteriors?

When you need Power Washing, Clean Start Exteriors is your go-to team. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional results with a focus on customer satisfaction. Whether it’s power washing or pressure washing, we tailor our services to meet your needs, ensuring your home or business looks spotless and welcoming.


Ready to give your exterior a clean start? Contact Clean Start Exteriors today to schedule your service and see the difference for yourself!

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