Why You Should Never Pressure Wash Your Siding (And What to Do Instead)
After 15 seasons in the field, we've seen just about everything: oxidation damage, water trapped behind siding, and vinyl or paint ruined by too much pressure. If there's one thing we wish every homeowner in the Lehigh Valley, Northampton County, and western New Jersey knew, it's this:
Your siding should never be pressure washed.
We get it. People use the term "pressure washing" for just about everything. But when it comes to your home's exterior, more pressure doesn't mean a better clean. It means more risk.
What Can Go Wrong with Pressure Washing Siding?
Most siding simply isn't built to handle high-pressure water. We've seen it lead to:
- Cracked or warped panels
- Water forced behind siding, which can cause mold or rot
- Oxidation marks that don't show up until the surface dries
- Stripped paint or protective coatings
- Voided warranties due to improper cleaning methods
In fact, many manufacturers (including James Hardie and CertainTeed specifically) recommend low-pressure or soft washing methods. If too much pressure is used, you may end up responsible for expensive repairs not covered by warranty.
Soft washing is the professional standard for safe, effective siding cleaning.
Real Example: What Oxidation Damage Looks Like
The photos below show oxidation on siding, appearing as chalky, uneven markings across the surface. This type of damage is especially common on older vinyl and can become much more visible after cleaning, particularly if too much pressure is used. It's a clear example of why soft washing is the safer choice for siding.
Oxidation showing as patchy, chalky markings across the siding.
Another angle showing the irregular oxidation pattern on the surface.
So What Should You Do Instead?
Soft washing is a completely different approach from pressure washing—and it's the method we use on every home.
- A professional-grade cleaning solution is applied to break down dirt, algae, and mildew at the root
- We rinse everything using low-pressure water and soft wash equipment
- No harsh force, no damage, just a deep, even clean that lasts
Soft washing is safe for:
- Vinyl siding
- Stucco and Dryvit
- Painted wood
- Aluminum and composite surfaces
If you're looking for house washing in the Lehigh Valley or western New Jersey, soft washing is the only method we recommend for siding.
A Longer-Lasting Clean
If you've washed your house before, hats off to you! We know it's a big job, and you've probably had to repeat it the next year. That's because pressure washing only removes what you can see. It doesn't kill the underlying growth.
Soft washing treats the root of the problem, which means your home stays cleaner, longer. And that saves you time and money in the long run.
Why It Matters Who You Hire
There are many exterior cleaning companies serving the Lehigh Valley and western New Jersey, and techniques can vary. That's why it's important to work with a team that uses methods recommended by siding manufacturers and understands how to treat your home safely.
At Pressure Brothers, we use the soft washing process because it's the safest, most effective way to clean siding. We also carry the level of insurance coverage you'd expect from a contractor working on your home, so you can feel confident that your property is protected. And if anything needs follow-up, we'll be there to take care of it.
We've spent 15 seasons refining our approach and earning the trust of homeowners throughout Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Phillipsburg, and surrounding communities.
Ready for a Safer, Smarter Clean?
If your siding looks dull, streaky, or just overdue for attention, we'd be happy to take a look. We've been providing soft washing in Easton, PA and surrounding areas for over 15 seasons and take pride in delivering results that speak for themselves.
đź“ž Call us at (610) 417-7335 or get your free estimate here!
No damage. No shortcuts. Just a house you can feel proud of again.
Proudly Serving the Lehigh Valley and Beyond
Pressure Brothers provides soft washing, siding cleaning, and full exterior house washing services throughout eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey. We proudly serve homeowners in Easton, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Forks Township, Palmer Township, Northampton County, Phillipsburg, Stewartsville, Warren County, and surrounding areas. Whether you need vinyl siding cleaning, oxidation removal, or a safer alternative to pressure washing, we deliver long-lasting, professional results across the Lehigh Valley.
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