How Much Does Pressure Washing Cost?

Pressure Washing vs. Power Washing

The only difference between power and pressure washing is heat. Power washing uses heat to create "wet steam," while pressure washing uses cold water. Otherwise, the machines and methods are identical. They use the same force of water and the same optional cleaners.

Pressure Washing Costs and Rates

You’ll spend an average of $0.40 per square foot for a professional power washer or anywhere from $25 to $100 per hour, depending on the size and type of the job and the equipment needed. However, most pros simply charge a flat rate of $90 to $200, on average.

You can buy or rent pressure washers and use them to clean almost anything outside. They work by pressurizing water from a garden hose and forcing it out of a spray wand. Homeowners can get an electric or gas pressure washer for occasional use.

Per Hour

Pressure washing ranges from $50 to $100 per hour per crew member. For example, you might pay $300 per hour for a crew of three, but the job will take a third of the time it would take a single worker.

Per Square Foot

Pressure washing costs $0.10 to $0.50 per square foot. However, you’ll tend to pay less per square foot for larger projects. You can expect a minimum cost of around $100 to cover equipment, licensing, insurance, travel, and other fixed overhead costs.

Average Cost to Pressure Wash a House

You’ll pay anywhere from $150 to $2,500 to pressure wash a home, depending on how many stories it has. Your location, too, plays a significant role in determining the price. 

Siding

You’ll pay anywhere from $150 to $1,400 to power wash most siding projects. However, if you’re doing the entire home, you might spend up to $2,500. Professionals use very low pressure for siding; high-pressure washing can severely damage most types of siding.

Roof

You’ll spend $0.50 to $1 per square foot to pressure or power wash a roof. Pressure or power washing roofs tends to be more expensive per square foot, since it takes more setup time and is harder to reach. The average cost to clean a roof is $440.

Driveway

It’ll cost you anywhere from $100 to $500 to pressure wash a driveway. If you want to wash your sidewalks at the same time, it could cost an additional $50 to $100. Expect to pay between $0.20 to $0.40 per square foot for most outdoor concrete surfaces, including pools, patios, and walkways.

Deck or Patio

Power washing a deck costs an average of $250 to $400. Professionals usually use power or pressure washers with less pressure to clean a deck, since it can be damaged by higher pressure washers.

Gutters

You’ll spend $50 to $300 to power wash gutters, or $0.50 to $1.50 per linear foot. Standard gutter cleaning costs $120 to $225.

Fencing

It typically costs between $150 and $300 to power wash most fences. Wood fences may cost extra since they take more time.

Garage Floor

It costs between $100 and $200 to pressure or power wash a garage floor. The cost may be higher if the floor is significantly stained, moldy, or greasy.

Whole House Pressure Washing Price List by Location

Residential vs. Commercial Building Pressure Washing Prices

You’ll pay anywhere from $0.10 to $1 per square foot for commercial pressure washing, while residential costs about $0.50 per square foot. Commercial pressure washing can be more expensive, since it often involves hard-to-reach spots on tall buildings and difficult roofs.

Electric vs. Gas Washers for House Exteriors

There’s very little difference in price between gas or electric power and pressure washers. They both cost between $100 and $3,000. Large residential and commercial washers range anywhere from $2,500 to $15,000. Corded electric washers are less portable since they need to be plugged in, while gas and cordless/battery-powered washers can go anywhere.

DIY Cleaning vs. Hiring Pressure Washing Services

While you can buy high-powered power and pressure washers at local home improvement stores, companies have the knowledge and experience of working safely with these products. Consider the pros and cons of renting power washers versus hiring a service. Professionals know how to target your home’s exterior, decks, patios, and driveways without damaging your home.

Pressure or Power Washer Rental Prices

It costs $35 to $175 per day to rent a power or pressure washer.

How Much Does a Pressure or Power Washer Cost?

Residential pressure or power washers cost from $100 to $1,000. If you own a boat, RV, or something that requires frequent washing, investing in a power washer could be the more affordable option. However, for occasional jobs, hiring a pro tends to cost far less.

DIY Hazards

If you do decide to pressure or power wash yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind. These include:

• Looking for damage in the machine-like cracked hoses, broken seals, or rust on the nozzle.

• Reading the safety instructions.

• Wearing safety goggles or a face shield.

• (If you are) using cleaning solutions, pre-water and, if possible, cover foliage.

• Not standing too close when spraying the area.

• Choosing the right nozzle. 40-degree nozzles are best for siding and decks, while a 0-degree nozzle is good for removing mud and stains on driveways.