Find a Pressure Washing Contractor near you
The average rating for Bark Pressure Washing Contractors is 4.76, based on 57,689 reviews
5/5
based on 57,689 reviews
Does the exterior of your home need refreshing? Dig into the costs of pressure washing your home and set your budget with this handy price guide.
Pressure washing your house can transform the appearance of your property, renewing its shine like a gentle exfoliation of unwanted grime. However, budgeting for this service can be quite daunting, with costs varying significantly based on the size of your home, the local market, and additional factors. Curious about the numbers behind this cleanliness overhaul? Here's everything you need to know about the costs of pressure washing your house.
Remember, this guide will help you understand how you're charged, but for the most accurate price compare local pressure washing contractors for free quotes.
Before we plunge into the costs, it's important to understand what you're paying for. Pressure washing involves using a high-pressure water spray to clean dirt, grime, dust, mold, and other pollutants from surfaces. The force of the water can be adjusted based on the material being cleaned to ensure the process is both effective and safe.
Aside from aesthetic appeal, pressure washing can also prolong the life of your sidings, driveways, and other exterior components. Regular cleaning helps prevent rot and decay of deck and fence materials, removes dust that can cause paint to kick or mottle, and can help eliminate molds and fungi.
For most homeowners, understanding the average cost of a wash is the first step in finding the right local professional.
| House size | Average price | Lower end | Higher end |
| One floor/bungalow | $460 | $120 | $800 |
| Two floors | $925 | $350 | $1,500 |
| Three floors | $1,300 | $600 | $2,000 |
Overall, at a very broad average, the cost of pressure washing the exterior of your home will be $450. However, bear in mind that this is a national average which doesn't take into account your location or the size of your home, both of which make vast differences.
Let's look further into the cost of scrubbing your exterior. It can range from $120 to $800 for a single-story home, $350 to $1,500 for a two-story home, and $600 to $2,000 for a three-story home. These figures are based on data from homeowners who have recently had their houses pressure washed.
Remember, it's not just the exterior of your home that can be pressure washed - it's your driveway, decking, fence, and other items too. Here's a guide to all the costs of general pressure washing.
The primary cost in this service is determined by the labor hours necessary to complete the job, which can be calculated by project size, time, or square footage.
Project size: Many professionals will charge based on the size of your home. Expect to pay between $350 and $1,500 for a two-storey home.
Hourly rates: A professional typically charges between $50 to $100 per hour.
Square footage: As a rule of thumb, expect to pay at least $0.10 per square foot, rising to $0.80 - or even more - in areas with a higher cost of living.
On top of labor, there are other costs such as equipment rental, cleaning solutions, and any repairs or preparatory work needed.
Check with your professional if pressure washing is right for your home, as different house materials require specific cleaning methods:
Wood siding is typically cleaned with a soft wash technique using low-pressure water and cleaning solutions.
Stucco cleaning can be tricky and is best handled by professionals to avoid damage; soft washing is often used.
Brick homes may need a soft wash to protect mortar joints and address issues like efflorescence.
Vinyl siding usually requires power washing, but care must be taken to prevent water from getting behind the siding to avoid mold and wood rot.
To further break down the cost, we need to look at the different components involved in this home improvement task.
The bulk of your bill will come from the labor required. The actual time spent on the job will influence this figure the most, and it can depend on factors like accessibility of the surfaces being cleaned and the type and extent of debris present.
If your home hasn't been cleaned in a while, chances are there may be some issues to address before washing. In some cases, you may need to fix parts of your exterior or conduct additional mold remediation, which can create unexpected costs.
The size of your home is the primary factor in the cost of pressure washing. The second largest cost factor is the need for any repairs or preparatory work. Other influential factors include the height of your home, the type of surface, the condition of the surfaces, and any accessibility issues.
Larger homes simply take more time to clean, hence the higher costs. More square footage means more surfaces — and more surfaces mean more effort.
Taller buildings and complex designs can require more time due to the need for additional cleaning settings and safety measures. Brick and concrete generally take longer to clean than vinyl or aluminum siding, and may also necessitate stronger cleaning solutions.
Older homes or homes in areas with high pollution will have more build-up, leading to longer cleaning times and, sometimes, the need for special cleaning agents or methods.
Where you live in the US will affect how much is costs to pressure wash your house. Below are some examples of large cities and the average costs of cleaning the exterior of your home - but remember, these are rough prices, and the best way to find out how much budget you need is to get free quotes from local professionals.
| City | Average | Lower end | Higher end |
| New York City | $380 | $250 | $550 |
| Chicago | $350 | $250 | $350 |
| Portland | $400 | $230 | $600 |
| Dallas | $280 | $160 | $400 |
| Kansas City | $340 | $200 | $450 |
| Sacramento | $310 | $170 | $440 |
| Phoenix | $205 | $120 | $290 |
While often used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two. Power washing uses hot water to more effectively eliminate tougher dirt and grime, while pressure washing is typically done with ambient-temperature water. This can affect the cost, as power washing might be a bit pricier due to the more robust and often more costly equipment and additional environmental considerations.
Power washing is great for tougher jobs but can be overkill for some surfaces, leading to damage. The additional cost has to be weighed against the benefits and the condition of your home's exterior.
Understanding when to schedule a pressure washing can affect your long-term maintenance costs. A general rule of thumb is to pressure wash once a year, or sooner if you notice significant staining. This regular maintenance might reduce the need for more involved and expensive cleaning efforts down the line.
Many homeowners choose to pressure wash in the spring or fall, periods when you can enjoy the aesthetic benefits of the cleaning for longer.
There are several strategies to cut down on the costs of pressure washing, without sacrificing the quality of the service.
If you're already paying for window cleaning or gutter maintenance, try to get a bundle deal with your provider.
You can scrape off loose or peeling paint and remove light debris from your siding before the professionals come, reducing the hours they'll have to spend cleaning.
Ensuring your home receives annual or biannual cleanings can prevent the buildup of stubborn grime that's more expensive to remove.
If you're considering pressure washing your house yourself, it's important to do it right to avoid damage to your property or injury to yourself.
Pressure washing equipment rental can range from $100 to $200 per day, with cleaning solutions, protective gear, and other materials adding to your total. You will need a pressure washer, protective eyewear, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Be sure to read the equipment manual before starting to understand how to operate it safely.
Cover electrical outlets and any delicate plants or surfaces. Apply a detergent or wet down the area before you start to speed up the cleaning process.
Start from the bottom up to prevent streaking. Keep a consistent distance from the surface, usually around 8 to 10 inches, and move in a smooth, even motion.
Rinse off any remaining detergent, and ensure all areas have dried completely before assessing whether a second pass is necessary.
Deciding whether to take this task on yourself or to pay for a professional service comes down to a few considerations.
The biggest pro for DIY is the cost savings, with the major con being the time commitment. Professional services guarantee a job well done in a timely manner but come with a higher price tag.
If safety is a concern or if you are unsure about the correct settings and procedures, it's best to hire a professional who will ensure the job is completed safely and to a high standard.
In the hands of an untrained user or set to too high a pressure for the material, pressure washing can lead to structural damage. However, when done right, it's a safe and effective cleaning method.
Regular inspections and maintenance, and a quick rinse with a garden hose from time to time, can help maintain the clean look for longer.
Pressure washing is generally safe for most exterior surfaces. However, be aware of the material and structure of the surface, and always test a small area first.
Roof pressure washing is a different service performed by professionals specifically trained for roof safety and with equipment designed to handle delicate roof materials.
In conclusion, pressure washing can be a highly effective method for restoring your home's exterior and maintaining its value. By understanding the key factors influencing the cost, homeowners can make informed decisions about this essential maintenance task. Whether you choose to save money with a DIY attempt or invest in the expertise of a professional, a well-timed pressure wash could be just what your house needs to shine bright like new.
The average rating for Bark Pressure Washing Contractors is 4.76, based on 57,689 reviews
5/5
based on 57,689 reviews
