Washworks Exterior Industry Terms & Definitions

Cleaning Methods & Techniques

• Soft Washing - A low-pressure cleaning method using water and cleaning solutions to remove dirt, mould, algae, and bacteria without damaging surfaces.

• High-Pressure Washing / Pressure Cleaning – Cleaning using high PSI water to remove heavy dirt and stains from hard surfaces like concrete and brick.

• Low-Pressure Rinse - A gentle rinse used after applying chemicals, common in soft washing.

• Downstreaming - Applying chemicals through a pressure washer at low pressure.

• Upstreaming - Injecting chemicals before the pump (less common due to equipment wear).

• Post-Treatment - Applying a solution after cleaning to inhibit regrowth of mould or algae.

• Pre-Treatment - Applying chemicals before washing to loosen dirt and organic growth.

• Surface-Specific Cleaning - Adjusting pressure, chemicals, and techniques to suit each surface type.

Equipment & Technical Terms

• PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) - Measurement of water pressure output.

• GPM (Gallons per Minute) - Measurement of water flow rate; higher GPM often cleans more effectively than higher PSI alone.

• Pressure Washer - Machine used for high-pressure cleaning.

• Soft Wash System - Dedicated system designed for low-pressure chemical application.

• Lance / Wand - The handheld tool used to direct water or chemicals.

• Nozzle / Tip - Attachment that controls spray angle and pressure (e.g. fan tip, turbo nozzle).

• Surface Cleaner - Rotary tool used for even cleaning of flat surfaces like concrete.

• Turbo Nozzle - Rotating high-pressure nozzle for stubborn grime on durable surfaces.

• Chemical Injector - Device that introduces cleaning solutions into the water stream.

Chemicals & Treatments

• Biodegradable Detergents - Environmentally friendly cleaning agents used in soft washing.

• Sodium Hypochlorite - Common active ingredient for killing mould and algae.

• Surfactants - Additives that help chemicals cling to surfaces and break down dirt.

• Algaecide - Chemical designed to kill algae.

• Mildewcide - Treatment that targets mildew growth.

• Neutralisation - Rinsing or balancing surfaces after chemical use.

• Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions - Products safe for plants, pets, and surrounding areas when used correctly.

Surface Types (Common in Quotes & Job Scopes)

• Rendered Walls

• Weatherboard / Timber Cladding

• Brickwork

• Concrete Driveways

• Pavers

• Roof Tiles (Concrete or Terracotta)

• Colorbond / Metal Roofing

• Fencing (Timber, Colorbond, PVC)

Safety & Professional Standards

• Pressure Regulation - Adjusting PSI to avoid surface damage.

• Risk Assessment - Identifying hazards before starting a job.

• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) - Gloves, eye protection, boots, etc.

• Chemical Dwell Time - The time a cleaning solution is left on a surface to work effectively.

• Overspray Control - Managing spray to protect nearby surfaces, plants, and windows.

• Runoff Management - Preventing chemicals or debris from entering drains or gardens.