Pressure washing has become the solution of choice for property owners looking to boost their curb appeal and maintain their investment. It gets rid of stubborn stains, grease stains and deep grime on exterior surfaces leaving them looking brand new. But the cost of pressure washing has people wondering why it’s more expensive than regular cleaning. From the cost of industrial grade equipment to the need for professionals, several factors go into the cost of pressure washing services.
In this article we’ll go over the cost of pressure cleaning service, the factors that go into the pricing and why hiring professionals is worth it for both residential and commercial properties.
Pressure Washing Cost Breakdown
Equipment and Quality
- Professional pressure washing companies invest in high end pressure washers which can cost thousands of dollars. These industrial grade machines are built to handle tough jobs, have adjustable pressure and can do hot water pressure washing for deep cleaning.
- Equipment also needs maintenance, repairs, replacement of parts like nozzles and pumps and operational costs like fuel or electricity.
- Specialized tools like surface cleaners, rotary wands and eco friendly cleaning solutions add to the cost of equipment.
Labor and Safety Training
- A big chunk of the cost is labor expertise. Professionals are trained extensively to use the powerful equipment and ensure the operator and property safety.
- Pressure washing involves handling high pressure water streams which can cause injury or damage if mishandled. That’s why companies hire skilled technicians who can handle delicate surfaces like wood siding while still cleaning tough areas like concrete driveways.
Cleaning Agents and Solutions
- Depending on the surface, professionals may use specialized abrasive chemicals or safe chemicals. For example soft washing is best for vinyl siding or roofs to avoid damage.
- Eco friendly solutions that comply with environmental regulations add to the cost.
Key Factors
Property Size and Complexity
- Square footage matters. A 2,000 sqft house, 3,000 sqft house, or multi-story homes take more time, labor and equipment.
- Taller homes (2 story, 3 story) may require scaffolding or lifts which adds to the cost.
Surface and Stain Level
- Different surfaces (concrete driveways, patios, decks, roof cleaning) require different techniques. Deep stains (oil stains, grease stains) often require pre-treatment which adds to the cost.
- Wood siding or painted areas may require soft washing which uses lower water pressure and special cleaning agents to avoid damage.
Accessibility Issues
- Hard to reach areas (2nd story roofs, confined spaces) require special equipment like scissor lifts or extended wands. The complexity of these jobs adds to the overall pressure washing project cost.
- Commercial properties (warehouses, office buildings) may have unique challenges which require larger equipment and more labor.
Location and Seasonal Demand
- Prices vary by location. Areas with high demand for pressure washing or limited competition have higher prices.
- Remote properties may have travel charges which adds to the cost.
Is Professional Pressure Washing Worth the Cost?
Long Term Results and Value
- Professional pressure washing companies provide high quality pressure washing that extends the life of your property’s surfaces. By removing mold, mildew and grime you prevent long term damage that leads to costly repairs.
- Benefits of regular pressure washing include curb appeal and increased property value for homeowners looking to sell.
Safety and Expertise
- DIY pressure washing may seem cheap but can lead to accidents, injuries or accidental damage to property. Professionals ensure safety through training and insurance so you don’t have to worry.
Customized and Quick Services
- Professionals use advanced pressure washing techniques to handle different surfaces and stains, offer customized solutions for house washing, driveway cleaning and more.
- Hiring experts saves you valuable time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while they handle the heavy lifting.
Common Add-Ons and Extra Costs
- Gutter Cleaning: Bundled with roof maintenance, extra cost.
- Patio and Outdoor Furniture Cleaning: Additional services to clean patio furniture or outdoor areas.
- Graffiti Removal: Specialized equipment and chemicals required.
- Stain Pre-Treatment: Heavily stained areas require pre-treatment, extra cost.
How to Save Money
- Wash regularly to prevent grime buildup and less intense cleaning.
- Get quotes from multiple pressure washing companies to compare prices.
- Bundle services like house wash with driveway clean for package deals.
Conclusion
The cost of pressure washing is the cost of industrial grade equipment, labor expertise and specialized cleaning solutions. Although the upfront cost may seem high, the long term benefits of increased property value, safety and long lasting results makes it worth it. Whether you need to clean a 2,000 sqft house, a concrete driveway or a commercial building, hiring professional pressure washers means efficient, effective and safe cleaning every time.
FAQ
How much to pressure wash a house?
$200 to $600 for a 2,000 sqft house depending on surface and stain level.
Is power washing the same as pressure washing?
Similar, but power washing uses hot water, good for tough stains, pressure washing uses high pressure water.
Can pressure washing damage surfaces?
Yes, if not done properly high pressure water streams can damage wood surfaces. That’s why hiring professionals is key.
What’s the difference between soft washing and pressure washing?
Soft washing uses low pressure and safe chemicals for roofs and siding, pressure washing for tough surfaces like concrete.
Why pressure washing for commercial properties?
Regular pressure washing for commercial properties looks good, attracts clients and prevents damage, saves money in the long run.
