Soft Washing vs Water Blasting in Christchurch – Which Exterior Cleaning Method is Best?
When it comes to exterior cleaning, not all surfaces — or cleaning methods — are created equal.
In Christchurch, where moss, mould, algae, and grime thrive thanks to our damp winters and coastal air, choosing the right approach can make all the difference.
At Metro Water Blasting Christchurch, we specialise in both soft washing and water blasting — and we know exactly which method delivers the best results while protecting your home, driveway, or commercial property.
If you’re wondering whether your exterior needs a soft wash or a water blast, this guide breaks it down for you.
What Is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a low-pressure cleaning method that uses biodegradable cleaning solutions to kill and lift organic material like moss, mould, and algae.
Instead of relying on sheer pressure, soft washing chemically treats and loosens grime, allowing it to be gently rinsed away with minimal water pressure.
✅ Ideal for delicate surfaces
✅ Extends the life of paint, coatings, and cladding
✅ Eco-friendly with controlled chemical application
What Is Water Blasting?
Water blasting (also known as high-pressure washing) uses powerful water jets to physically strip away dirt, grime, moss, and stains.
It’s highly effective for hard surfaces that can withstand intense pressure — like concrete driveways, brick paths, or industrial yards.
✅ Best for heavy grime and buildup on durable surfaces
✅ No need for chemical solutions (pure mechanical cleaning)
✅ Faster cleaning on hard materials
When to Choose Soft Washing in Christchurch
Soft washing is recommended for cleaning:
- House exteriors (weatherboard, plaster, Colorsteel, brick)
- Roofs (tile, iron, Colorsteel) — especially for moss treatment
- Decks (timber or composite)
- Fences (painted or raw timber)
- Patio covers, pergolas, and shade sails
- Windows, eaves, and soffits
Soft washing is gentle but highly effective — perfect for properties in Christchurch suburbs like Cashmere, Fendalton, and St Albans, where older homes and delicate materials are common.
Learn more about our safe soft washing services here.
When to Choose Water Blasting in Christchurch
Water blasting is best suited for:
- Concrete driveways and carparks
- Brick patios and paths
- Commercial building yards and entrances
- Paved areas and tiled courtyards
- Sports courts and playgrounds
In areas like Hornby, Rolleston, and Wigram, where newer builds and commercial lots dominate, high-pressure cleaning safely removes heavy grime and algae.
Book your concrete or driveway cleaning service here.
Risks of Choosing the Wrong Method
| Wrong Method | Risk |
|---|---|
| High-pressure on delicate surfaces | Cracks, splintering, paint stripping |
| Soft washing on heavy grime | Incomplete removal, patchy results |
| DIY high-pressure use | Water intrusion into cladding, insulation damage |
That’s why professional assessment is crucial.
At Metro Water Blasting Christchurch, we inspect every surface first to determine the safest, most effective approach.
Our 3-Step Process to Pick the Right Cleaning Method
- Property Inspection: We assess surface type, age, paint/coating condition, and buildup severity.
- Recommended Cleaning Plan: We suggest soft wash or water blast — or sometimes a combination (soft wash first, then rinse with low pressure).
- Safe, Professional Execution: Our team uses commercial-grade equipment with pressure control systems to protect your property.
Real Client Story: Soft Wash vs Water Blast in Riccarton
A homeowner in Riccarton contacted us for a full exterior clean before selling their 1970s weatherboard home.
They thought they needed water blasting — but our inspection revealed that high pressure could damage the aging weatherboard paint.
We performed a full soft wash instead.
The house looked fresh, bright, and ready for sale without a single chip or splinter — and it sold above asking price within three weeks.
Christchurch Suburbs We Service
We provide soft washing and water blasting services across:
- Central Christchurch – Riccarton, Sydenham, Addington
- North Christchurch – St Albans, Papanui, Belfast
- West Christchurch – Hornby, Ilam, Avonhead
- South Christchurch – Spreydon, Cashmere, Hoon Hay
- East Christchurch – Linwood, Aranui, New Brighton
- Greater Canterbury – Rolleston, Rangiora, Kaiapoi
No matter where you are, we have the expertise to choose the right method for your property.
📞 Call 0800 997 997 to book your soft washing or water blasting service in Christchurch, or
💻 Request a free quote through Metro Water Blasting Christchurch.
Clean smarter, protect better — with Christchurch’s trusted exterior cleaning experts.