Pressure Washing vs Power Washing
The average cost of pressure washing ranges from $0.30 to $0.80 per sq.ft., depending on the level of grime and dirt buildup and the area being washed. You could pay a premium of up to $2 per sq.ft. to pressure wash certain materials like composite and asphalt roofing. However, most materials and costs fall within the range mentioned above.
On the other hand, power washing costs between $0.35 and $0.70 per sq.ft. When you decide to wash your home, you can choose between pressure washing and power washing. While they sound similar, these are two different cleaning methods, and each has specific equipment, processes, and prices to consider. The table and subsections below discuss the differences between pressure washing and power washing, including what each offers, the pros and cons, and the average cost for each service expressed per square foot.
| Cleaning Method | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Labor Included) |
|---|
| Pressure Washing | $0.30 - $0.80 |
| Power Washing | $0.35 - $0.70 |
Pressure Washing Cost
The average cost of pressure washing is slightly cheaper. Most people spend $0.30 per sq.ft. on simple to moderate jobs up to $0.80 per sq.ft. on heavy-duty jobs. The cost depends on the amount of grime, dirt, or algae to remove. It uses unheated water under pressure, fed through a pressurizing motor powered by either electricity or gas. The electricity and water may or may not be sourced from your home, depending on the company that you use. It generally involves detergent to help facilitate the cleaning process, although non-chemical cleaners can be requested for areas near plants or children.
Power Washing Cost
Power washing, which costs $0.35 to $0.70 per sq.ft., is similar but uses heated water to clean. This can be advantageous for certain types of grime or dirt and can help remove more dirt in a shorter amount of time. It is usually not recommended for siding. Power washing is best used on surfaces like concrete that will not be damaged by heat and pressure. Heated power washing is a little more expensive because of the heat required and the equipment used for the job. It may or may not be the right choice for your needs, so you will want to ask your service provider what is best.
Pressure Washing Cost per Hour
The companies that set pressure washing cost per hour rates charge $50 to $150 per hour for professional pressure washing services. This depends on the type of job being done and any additional considerations (extra dirt or a four-story house, for example) that could add a premium charge. Typically, it takes at least two hours to pressure wash an entire house with more than 1,000 square feet. Most jobs average between two and four hours. But this varies depending on the amount of grime the house has and the surface type being washed. Porous surfaces like concrete and very rough brick and stone surfaces can take longer to clean. Some complex jobs may take up to 8 hours to complete, depending on the different factors involved. Also, bear in mind that some companies have an hourly minimum, which means they will not charge for less than one full hour of work.
The average pressure washing cost per square foot is $0.30 to $0.80. However, many companies have minimums. So if you have a small job, your costs may be higher than what your square footage may equal out to. It is very common to have minimum costs between $100 and $350. If you have a small house with some mild algae streaks, you may spend a minimum of $100, regardless of what the square foot costs work out to be. In addition, you may also pay about $2 per hour for the water used. You will see this cost reflected in your next water bill. Most companies hook up to your water supply to perform the pressure washing work.
Although several companies charge by the hour or the job, many still charge by the square foot to ensure that they can provide adequate cleaning and equipment for the job. Typically, you will find that rates get cheaper as the square footage increases and that not all companies will have the same rates. If you are pressure washing a fence or linear surface, you will have to ask about the variance in pricing. This is also why many companies set flat rates for certain services that are commonly used.
| House Size | Average Costs (Labor Included) |
|---|
| 900 sq.ft. | $270 - $720 |
| 1,000 sq.ft. | $300 - $800 |
| 1,250 sq.ft. | $375 - $1,000 |
| 1,500 sq.ft. | $450 - $1,200 |
| 1,750 sq.ft. | $525 - $1,400 |
| 2,000 sq.ft. | $600 - $1,600 |
| 2,500 sq.ft. | $750 - $2,000 |
| 3,000 sq.ft. | $900 - $2,400 |
Cost to Pressure Wash a House by Number of Stories
The average cost to pressure wash a house is $300 to $600, but the price can vary depending on the number of stories. Typically, houses with more stories will be more expensive, both because they have more square footage that needs to be cleaned and because the higher floors will sometimes require additional safety equipment, scaffolding, ladders, and other tools. In addition to taking more time, it also incurs an additional risk for the laborers, so it is often charged at a premium. One-story homes typically range in size from 900 to 1,200 sq.ft. Two-story homes are typically 1,500 to 2,000 sq.ft. For those with three-story homes, the pressure washing cost covers 2,500 to 3,000 sq.ft. In the table below, you will see a breakdown of the average cost to power wash a one-, two-, and three-story house, respectively.
| Number of Stories | Average Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|
| 1 Story | $72 - $1,000 |
| 2 Stories | $120 - $1,600 |
| 3 Stories | $200 - $2,800 |
Cost to Pressure Wash a House by Material
The average cost to pressure wash a house based on the material being cleaned ranges from $0.30 to $2.00 per sq.ft. The cost of this service varies greatly. The high-end cost covers pressure washing a roof or a composite deck. Both come at a premium cost because of the work involved. Different materials require different processes and levels of pressure for effective cleaning. Several materials can be found on the exterior of a home. Concrete is usually found in steps, patios, and driveways. Also, brick can be found in those areas and in the primary construction of the house. Vinyl siding, stone, and stucco are other materials for the exterior of the home. You may also have wood siding, wood decking, or wooden steps. Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material on most homes. If you have composite siding or decking, that incurs a premium cost. The table below shows a breakdown of the different materials, the suggested PSI for cleaning, and the average cost of cleaning per square foot.
| Material | Suggested PSI | Cleaning Cost per Sq.Ft. (Labor Included) |
|---|
| Concrete | 3,000 - 3,500 | $0.30 - $0.33 |
| Vinyl | 2,500 - 3,000 | $0.30 - $0.40 |
| Wood | 1,000 - 1,500 | $0.30 - $0.50 |
| Brick/Masonry | 500 - 1,500 | $0.31 - $0.37 |
| Stucco | 1,200 - 1,500 | $0.33 - $0.45 |
| Stone | 2,500 - 3,000 | $0.35 - $0.75 |
| Asphalt | 1,000 - 1,500 | $0.50 - $1.00 |
| Composite | 2,500 - 3,000 | $0.50 - $2.00 |
Pressure Washing Cost by Location
The average cost changes depending on the part of the house being pressure washed, ranging from $50 to $700. The exterior siding is only one area that you may want pressure washed on your property. It can also be used on various other areas of your home and yard to help get them clean. Many cleaning companies require a minimum charge of $100, so you might consider cleaning multiple areas at one time or adding these areas when your home is being pressure washed to save some money. The table and subsections below will discuss the different areas that are commonly cleaned, including the important considerations, pros and cons, and relevant materials to avoid.
| Location | Average Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|
| Patio | $50 - $75 |
| Porch | $100 - $150 |
| Deck | $100 - $200 |
| Garage Floor | $100 - $200 |
| Fence | $125 - $235 |
| Driveway | $180 - $240 |
| Gutters | $200 - $400 |
| Siding | $300 - $600 |
| Roof | $450 - $700 |
Pressure Wash Patio Cost
The average cost to pressure wash a patio that measures 50 square feet is about $50 to $75. This assumes the patio is made of concrete or similar durable material and can be completed using standard pressure washing equipment. Patios with grout, fine details, or delicate materials may require a premium charge for specialty cleaning or may not be able to be pressure washed at all. Be sure to talk to a service provider about your patio space and what cleaning method would be best. If pressure washing is a solution, it can provide a great opportunity to refresh the space without a full renovation.
Porch Pressure Wash Cost
Pressure washing a 300 square foot porch will cost $100 to $150. The exact cost depends on the material of the porch, with a premium added for materials like brick or wood that might require a different washing approach. If furniture must be moved off the porch or other concerns need to be addressed in preparation, this could add to the cost. You may also be able to save on this service by having multiple areas pressure washed at the same time, such as the porch and the driveway.
Pressure Wash Deck Cost
The average cost to pressure wash a deck is about $100 to $200, depending on the size of the deck and its material. Softer woods require a low-pressure wash. Any materials near plants or areas where pets or children play might not be a good idea to clean with chemicals. It will be important to consider the cleaning method and the materials or cleaning ingredients used to ensure that they are safe for use on your deck surface and will not cause damage. Treated lumber may have special considerations, as well, so check with your washing service for the best results.
Cost to Pressure Wash a Garage Floor
The cost to pressure wash a garage floor that measures 300 square feet averages $100 to $200. If you want to spruce up your garage or have the floor painted or otherwise treated, it might be a good idea to have it pressure washed first to remove all of the dirt and buildup. Some people also have their garage floor pressure washed before selling their home to increase its value. If your floor is made of a delicate surface, you may require a soft wash or alternative cleaning method. Your pressure washer can help you decide what is best.
Pressure Wash Fence Cost
It will cost $125 to $235 to pressure wash a fence, depending on the size. The fencing will typically be made of treated lumber or composite material. Porous or softwoods that require a soft wash may have a premium cost associated with it. If a fence is starting to look old and worn, but you don’t want to invest thousands of dollars in a replacement, a small investment in pressure washing could bring it back to life and add years to the timeline before it needs replacing in the future.
Pressure Wash Driveway Cost
The average pressure wash driveway cost is $180 to $240, depending on the size of the driveway space. You may spend more or less on this service if your driveway is longer or requires additional cleaning, has excessive buildup or dirt, or needs preparation first. Pressure washing a concrete or other hard surface driveway is a good way to keep it in good condition and prevent it from deteriorating too soon, requiring excessive repair or replacement. You may pay a premium to clean surfaces like brick or other specialty materials.
Cost to Pressure Wash Gutters
The average cost to pressure wash gutters is $200 to $400, depending on the linear feet of gutters that need to be cleaned. This varies depending on how many gutters you have and whether your home is one, two, or three stories high. Taller buildings incur higher charges because ladders are required, and a higher safety risk is present. Gutters should be cleaned at least once or twice a year. It is a great way to ensure there are no clogs, buildup, or debris once you remove all loose leaves and other material. It can be used to clean gutters if done properly. This should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to avoid damage.
Pressure Wash Siding Cost
The average cost to pressure wash siding is $300 to $600, depending on the size of the house. This varies depending on the siding material, the cleaning method used (pressure or hot water power washing, chemicals, etc.), and other factors. If your siding is made of wood or a softer material prone to damage, a soft or low-pressure wash might be a better idea. This could extend the time it takes and increase the cost of pressure washing instead of a standard high-pressure service.
Pressure Wash Roof Cost
The average cost to pressure wash a roof is $450 to $700, depending on the type of cleaning method, the size, and the surface of the roof in question. Roof pressure washing requires a specialty service and includes an additional risk because of the nature of the work. Many roofing materials should never be pressure washed because this can remove the protective layers on the material, leading to future leaks. It will typically cost more than washing the siding or other parts of the home. However, it can be a great way to remove debris and mildew from the roofing material so that it can last for many years longer than if it were left to build up over the years.
Pros and Cons
Pressure or power washing a house can be a great way to improve the home’s curb appeal and give it the appearance of more value. In fact, real estate professionals recommend pressure washing a home before listing it for sale or even getting an appraisal because of its impact. The home looks better. The siding and other cleaned materials will last longer because the dirt and grime buildup will not cause them to break down as quickly as if you didn’t get the pressure washing done.
There aren’t many disadvantages. If it isn’t done properly, it can damage the siding or the structure underneath, but that’s as simple as hiring the right people for the job. Power washing comes with a minimum charge. So, those who have smaller areas might not find the cost benefit to this service. However, you can combine services to save money and have more done at once. Aside from the risk of damage by untrained workers (including DIY jobs), there isn’t really much on the “cons” list.
Are Pressure Washers Dangerous?
Many people wonder about the danger of pressure washers. There are several things to consider. For starters, these machines are available for rent at most big box stores for around $50 to $100 a day, depending on the type and duty level of the machine, which can seem like a big savings if you have several areas to wash. And for many jobs, this may be a suitable alternative to hiring professionals. However, you need to be aware of a few concerns if you intend to DIY the job.
The first concern is the amount of pressure per area. The water pressure is what cleans the surface, but there is a delicate balance between using the right pressure and using so much that you cause damage. These washers can be adjusted to the exact pounds of pressure per square inch (PSI) required for the surface in question. Wood, vinyl, brick, and concrete each need different PSIs. Different levels of dirt or debris may require adjustments to the PSI. A professional can calculate this and ensure that your property is not damaged.
The next issue is the material. Most roofs should not be pressure washed, for example, because it can damage them. You may not be aware of which areas to avoid when doing your own washing. You can unwittingly damage your property, which will end up costing far more than paying professionals to do it. On the same note, you have to consider the nozzle. Pressure washers have several to choose from, the narrower the spray—the more concentrated the force. You may not realize how powerful some nozzles can be and how much damage they can cause.
Alternatives to Pressure Washer
If you do not want to use a machine-powered wash to clean the surfaces in and around your home, you may decide that you will hand wash them. It will typically take longer and require a lot more effort to do the same job when you opt to wash by hand. Hand-washing your siding, for example, would require ladders or scaffolding, while a pressure washer might be able to reach well above the ground without any additional assistance. This is an important consideration.
However, there are times when hand washing should be used. If you have delicate materials that could be damaged from the pressure, such as an asphalt roof, hand washing is the better option. In the same regard, if you have a very small area that needs to be cleaned, it might be too complex or costly to deal with a pressure washer when you could easily wash it by hand with the items you have around the home. It could also be a much more cost-effective option to avoid paying a minimum charge for a small job when you call the pros.
Soft Wash vs Pressure Wash
While you will spend an average of $300 to $600 on pressure washing, you may spend $375 to $525 on soft washing or $0.25 to $0.35 per sq.ft. Soft washing is technically a form of pressure washing and is often one of the alternatives for those delicate surfaces where a different approach is needed. Soft washing refers to any washing done with a hose or pressure washing equipment set to less than 500 PSI to clean and/or rinse the surface. In addition to lowering the PSI, the machine tip is usually replaced with one that widens the spray. This drops the pressure and widens the water stream for a softer touch on surfaces like cedar, asphalt shingles, and other materials that would get damaged by the high pressure of a standard wash. The table below shows a comparison of the average costs.
| Method | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Labor Included) |
|---|
| Soft Wash | $0.25 - $0.35 |
| Pressure Wash | $0.30 - $0.80 |
Electric vs Gas Pressure Washer
Pressure washers come in two varieties, determined by what is used to power them—electricity and gas. Both produce the same amount of pressure necessary to clean your home, are roughly the same size, and similar in how they operate. The biggest difference is how they are powered. If you contract with a company that uses electric equipment, you will need to have a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet for them to use. Companies using gas fill the units on site or shortly before they arrive. You might pay a little more for gas, but you also have to pay for the electricity that’s used, so it’s going to balance out.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Cost to Repaint House Exterior
The average cost to repaint the house exterior is $3,750 to $9,750. After pressure washing the house, you may decide that it is a good idea to repaint the entire structure. Some people will also have pressure washing done before painting, removing some of the loose paint and speeding up the painting process. If you decide to repaint your home’s exterior, the cost will be in addition to what you pay for pressure washing and will vary depending on the type of siding you have, the type of paint and methods used, and how much square footage needs painting.
Cost to Clean Windows
The cost to clean windows is $190 to $460 and is often a service that people choose to have done at the same time as pressure washing. When the siding is clean and looks new, the dirt and grime buildup on the windows will be even more obvious. It is typically for the siding only. Having the windows cleaned professionally will incur an additional charge. However, it can be a great way to enhance your home and bring in more natural light.
Cost to Reseal a Driveway
The cost to reseal a driveway is $355 to $600. If you have an asphalt driveway, it is a good time to consider resealing when it is freshly pressure washed. This would guarantee that it is free of dirt and debris and ready for sealing. Once the surface dries, it can be professionally resealed by an asphalt or paving company. The exact cost you pay for this service depends on how big your driveway is, what type of materials you choose, and how the company charges for the job (by the hour, square footage, etc.)
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Maintenance. Maintain your house and exterior areas by pressure washing them annually to remove any stains, mold, or mildew. Doing it once a year helps your home and surfaces last longer while maintaining their appearance. While this is commonly done in the spring, there is no right or wrong time to do it. As long as you invest in the services to have it done correctly, it can be a great investment in maintaining your home.
- DIY. You can rent a pressure washer and attempt to do the work yourself. However, they can be dangerous because they are under such high pressure. This can be risky for your home and surfaces and your personal safety. If you do decide to try doing it yourself, be sure to use extreme caution and set the pressure appropriately so that you do not cause any damage to your property or injury to yourself.
- Resale value. Pressure washing increases the curb appeal and resale value of your home. It would be a good idea to pressure wash your home before having it appraised or listing it on the market for sale. Some homes that may otherwise sit on the market because they look old or unkempt have sold quickly, and for a higher value in many cases, just from being pressure washed or power washed by a professional service. Talk to your realtor about this if you aren’t sure.
- Insurance. Professional pressure washing companies should be properly licensed and insured to do the work you need. Always make sure before you hire anyone that they have the necessary insurance to protect them from liability and to protect you in case they cause any damage to your home during the process. This will give you peace of mind and assure you that you are working with a reputable company.
- Chemicals. If you have any landscaping or plants near the area being pressure washed, you will want to make sure that only water is being used or that the detergents being used are safe for the plants and do not contain bleach or any other harmful chemicals. You may have to discuss this with your contractor, but a qualified service will know how to handle all kinds of jobs, including those with chemical concerns, and still get the best results.
- Estimates. Always make sure that you get at least three estimates for pressure washing services. This allows you to compare the rates and ensure that you are getting the best service for your needs. It will also help you check the reputation and the services offered and give you the peace of mind that you are creating a relationship with someone you can rely on in the future. After all, it is an ongoing maintenance need, so it helps to find someone you can work with for the long term.
- Permits. Check to make sure that your municipality does not require permits for pressure washing and other outdoor improvements. Although this is rare, some small neighborhoods, HOAs, and private communities may have stricter rules about it. They may require permits for the sake of the amount of water being used for the job. If you work with a reputable local company, of course, they should be able to check all of this for you and include it in your costs.
- Delicate surfaces. Pressure washers can etch surfaces like concrete, which means they can harm soft surfaces like cedar and other wood siding. There is also the risk of damage around windows, including to the seals or even broken panes, if care is not taken when cleaning around them. This is the reason that you will always want to trust the work to professionals. They understand how to adjust the pressure and nozzles appropriately and what types of detergents, power settings, and methods will work best on all materials without causing damage.
- Preparation. Depending on the area being pressure washed and the amount of dirt or debris, you may need to prepare your home for this service. Companies may request that you cover any vents or windows that aren’t properly sealed and remove any large debris or obvious damage so that it is not in their way. You will also want to move any furnishings, planters, or other items that could be in the way of the pressure washing.
- Time of year. Most companies recommend pressure washing between March and November, especially for those who live in climates with cold, damp winter months. Once freezing temperatures set in, pressure washing the exterior of the home or any of its components can lead to unnecessary damage because the water can freeze on or in the materials before it has a chance to dry.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to pressure wash a 1,500 square foot house?
It costs approximately between $120 to $1,200 to pressure wash a 1,500 square foot house depending on the level of dirt and cleaning method used.
- How much does it cost to power wash a two-story house?
The average cost to power wash a two-story house is $120 to $1,600, depending on the exact square footage, cleaning method, and level of dirt.
- Is power washing good for your house?
Generally speaking, power washing can be a good way to clean your house of debris and dirt buildup that can make it look dingy and old. When done correctly, it improves the appearance and adds value.
- How often should you pressure wash your house?
Professionals generally recommend pressure washing your house about once a year. Several variables could impact this, including the climate you live in and how much dirt and debris are in the air.
- What does pressure washing a house include?
Pressure washing a house typically includes a top-to-bottom cleaning of the siding and exterior windows. The windows and other elements may add to the cost of pressure washing if they are charged separately. However, some companies include it with their work.
- How much does pressure washing cost per hour?
Depending on the scope of the job, pressure washing could cost between $50 and $150 per hour.
- Is pressure washing bad for your house?
If done properly, pressure washing should not damage your siding. However, it should not be used on your roof.
- What time of year is best to pressure wash a house?
Many people choose to pressure wash their homes in the spring, but there is no single time better than another if your house is dirty. It is always best to do before putting a house on the market or having it valued, as well.
- Do pressure washing companies use your water?
This depends on the company. Some use your water, while others bring a tanker.
- Can you use vinegar in a pressure washer?
Yes, a mixture of three parts vinegar to seven parts water is often used to help kill mold or algae on your siding.
- How long does it take a house to dry after power washing?
Most homes will take 24 hours to 3 days to dry after pressure washing is completed. It is recommended to wait at least three to four days before painting the pressure-washed surfaces if the cleaning is a preparation step.
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