How Much Does It Cost to Pressure Wash a House?
Dirt, grime, and algae buildup can discolor your home and lower your curb appeal. Not only that, but if you have porous siding, such as wood, it can lead to serious damage over time. People who are looking for a way to freshen up their home’s exterior will find that house pressure washing helps remove all of this buildup and keeps the home looking better for the long term. Hiring professional pressure washers guarantees that you get the best results, avoid any potential issues, and add instant value to your home while boosting its appearance.
The average cost to pressure wash a house ranges from $450 to $800, with most people spending around $625 for two hours of labor to pressure wash a 2,000 sq.ft. home, which includes the cost of all labor, equipment usage, and other materials. On the low end, you could spend as little as $270 for a simple pressure washing job on a 900 square foot house. On the high end, some people spend as much as $1,000 for specialty pressure washing of a 2,500 sq.ft. brick home that takes three hours to complete.
Cost to Pressure Wash House
| House Pressure Washing Cost | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $625 |
| Average range | $450-$800 |
| Minimum cost | $270 |
| Maximum cost | $1,000 |
In this guide
Pressure Washing Cost Per Square Foot
Pressure Washing Cost Per Hour
Cost to Pressure Wash House by Number of Stories
Pressure Washing Cost by Location
Labor Cost to Pressure Wash a House
Pros and Cons of Power Washing a House
Alternative to Pressure Washer
Soft Wash vs Pressure Wash
Electric vs Gas Pressure Washer
Are Pressure Washers Dangerous?
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Additional Considerations
FAQs
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Pressure Washing Cost by Project Range
Pressure Washing vs Power Washing
When you decide that you want to have your home washed, you have various options to choose from, including the option between pressure washing and power washing. While they sound similar, these are two different cleaning methods, and each has its own equipment, process, and prices to consider. The table and subsections below will discuss the differences between pressure washing and power washing, including what each offers, the pros and cons, and the average cost for cleaning a 1,500 to 2,000 square foot house.
| Cleaning Method | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
|---|---|
| Pressure Washing | $450 - $800 |
| Power Washing | $500 - $825 |
Pressure Washing Cost
The average cost of pressure washing is slightly cheaper, with most people spending $450 to $800 on the service for a 1,500 to 2,000 square foot house. Pressure washing 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 a bit more at about $500 to $825 per service, 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 Square Foot
The average pressure washing cost per square foot is $0.30 to $0.40. 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.
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. 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.
Cost to Pressure Wash House by Number of Stories
The average cost to pressure wash a house is $270 to $1,200 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. 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 and Materials) |
|---|---|
| 1 (900 - 1,200 sq.ft.) | $270 - $480 |
| 2 (1,500 - 2,000 sq.ft.) | $450 - $800 |
| 3 (2,500 - 3,000 sq.ft.) | $750 - $1,200 |
Pressure Washing Cost by Location
The average cost of pressure washing is $50 to $700 depending on the part of the house being pressure washed. The exterior siding is only one area that you may want pressure washed on your property. Pressure washing can also be used on various other areas of your home and yard to help get them clean. Some cleaning companies require a minimum charge, 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 | Cleaning Cost (Materials and Labor) |
|---|---|
| Patio | $50 - $75 |
| Concrete Pad | $50 - $75 |
| Porch | $100 - $150 |
| Deck | $100 - $200 |
| Garage Floor | $100 - $200 |
| Fence | $125 - $235 |
| Gutters | $150 - $225 |
| Driveway | $180 - $240 |
| 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.
Concrete Pressure Washing Prices
The average price to pressure wash a concrete pad that measures 50 square feet is $50 to $75. The total cost depends on the type of equipment and cleaning solutions used, such as choosing pressure washing or power washing with heated water, which may cost a little more. Concrete is one of the most common surfaces to have pressure washed, so you should not have trouble finding a company that can perform a reliable service at an affordable rate. However, be sure that if your concrete is a specialty material or has delicate details, you use a soft wash or low-pressure wash to avoid causing damage.
Pressure Wash Porch
Pressure washing a 300 square foot 3 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 pressure washing service for the best results.
Pressure Wash 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 soft wood that requires 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.
Cost to Pressure Wash Gutters
The average cost to pressure wash gutters is $150 to $225, 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. Pressure washing is a great way to ensure there are no clogs, buildup, or debris once you remove all loose leaves and other material. A pressure washer can be used to clean gutters if done properly. This should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to avoid damage.
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.
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. It will typically cost more than pressure 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.
Labor Cost to Pressure Wash a House
The average cost to pressure wash a house for labor only is $560 to $595, which makes up about 90 to 95% of the total average cost of $625 for pressure washing, with the other 5 to 10% reserved for materials. This is assuming the house is approximately 2,000 square feet and requires standard washing. Every company has its own pricing structure. Some companies charge by the hour while others charge by the square foot, linear foot, or as a flat fee-per-service rate, such as $75 to pressure wash your small patio. Most companies charge hourly, and several require a two-hour minimum for service. If your house is smaller than average, you should contact a company that charges by the footage, which is generally $0.30 to $0.40 per square foot. The price you pay may be higher or lower based on your siding or extreme cleaning needs.
Pros and Cons of Power Washing a House
Pressure washing 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 to pressure washing a house. 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 for pressure washing.
Alternative 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
Soft washing is technically a form of pressure washing and is often one of the pressure washing 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 pressure washer tip is usually replaced with one that widens the spray, which helps to drop the pressure and provide the wider cleansing that offers a softer touch for surfaces like cedar, asphalt shingles, and other materials that would get damaged by the high pressure of a standard wash.
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.
Are Pressure Washers Dangerous?
Many people wonder about the danger of pressure washers. There are several things to consider. For starters, pressure washers are available for rent at most big box stores for around $50 a day, 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. Pressure 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 pressure washing. You can unwittingly damage your property, which will end up costing far more than paying professionals to pressure wash your home. 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.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Cost to Repaint House Exterior
The average cost to repaint the house exterior is $3,500 to $7,000. 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 $75 to $450 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. Pressure washing 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 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. Pressure washing 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 pressure wash a house. 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, pressure washers 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 pressure washing your own home, 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 pressure washing 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 pressure washing 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, pressure washing 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 pressure washing. 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.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to pressure wash a 1,500 square foot house?
It costs approximately $450 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 $450 to $800, 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.
- 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.
- 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 much does it cost to pressure wash the exterior of a house in my city?
Cost to pressure wash the exterior of a house varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
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