Your driveway is covered in oil stains. Your siding has green algae growing on it. Your deck looks dingy and weathered. You need professional pressure washing, but where do you find reliable services near you? And how much should you expect to pay?
Professional pressure washing does more than improve appearance—it removes harmful mold and mildew, prevents permanent staining, extends the life of surfaces, and dramatically increases curb appeal. But with different methods, pressure levels, and pricing structures, finding the right pressure washer can be overwhelming.
This comprehensive guide shows you everything you need to know about pressure washing services. You'll learn what different services cost, which surfaces can be pressure washed, the difference between pressure washing and soft washing, and where to find quality local professionals who won't overcharge you.
💦 Types of Pressure Washing Services & Costs
🏠 House Washing
$200-500
Clean exterior siding, removing dirt, mold, and algae.
- Per sq ft: $0.15-0.40
- Single-story: $150-300
- Two-story: $250-500
- Three-story: $400-800
- Method: Soft washing recommended
🚗 Driveway Cleaning
$100-250
Remove oil stains, tire marks, and dirt from driveways.
- Per sq ft: $0.10-0.30
- Single car (200 sq ft): $75-150
- Double car (400 sq ft): $100-250
- Large (600+ sq ft): $150-350
- Includes: Degreasing, sealing extra
🪵 Deck & Patio Cleaning
$150-350
Clean and restore wood or composite decks and patios.
- Per sq ft: $0.25-0.50
- Small deck (200 sq ft): $100-200
- Medium deck (400 sq ft): $150-300
- Large deck (600+ sq ft): $200-450
- Sealing: $150-400 extra
🚧 Concrete Cleaning
$100-300
Clean walkways, patios, and concrete surfaces.
- Per sq ft: $0.08-0.25
- Walkway: $50-150
- Patio: $100-300
- Garage floor: $75-200
- Method: High-pressure washing
🏡 Fence Cleaning
$150-400
Remove dirt, mold, and weathering from fences.
- Per linear foot: $1-3
- Wood fence (100 ft): $150-300
- Vinyl fence (100 ft): $100-250
- Both sides: 50% more
- Staining: $300-800 extra
🏠 Roof Washing
$300-600
Remove algae, moss, and stains from roofs.
- Per sq ft: $0.20-0.50
- Average roof: $300-600
- Large roof: $500-1,000
- Method: Soft washing only
- Note: Extends roof life
🌊 Soft Washing
$200-500
Low-pressure cleaning with specialized solutions.
- Best for: Siding, roofs, delicate surfaces
- Pressure: 500 PSI or less
- Solutions: Kills mold/algae
- Safer: Won't damage surfaces
- Longer lasting: Results last longer
🧱 Brick & Stone Cleaning
$150-400
Clean brick, stone, and masonry surfaces.
- Per sq ft: $0.15-0.35
- Brick house: $200-500
- Stone patio: $150-350
- Retaining wall: $100-300
- Method: Medium pressure
💰 Understanding Pressure Washing Costs
Average Pricing by Project Type
| Surface/Project | Size/Area | Average Cost | Per Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| House Exterior (Single-Story) | 1,000-1,500 sq ft | $150-300 | $0.15-0.20 |
| House Exterior (Two-Story) | 1,500-2,500 sq ft | $250-500 | $0.15-0.20 |
| Driveway (Double Car) | 400-600 sq ft | $100-250 | $0.10-0.30 |
| Deck (Medium) | 300-500 sq ft | $150-300 | $0.25-0.50 |
| Fence (Wood, 100 ft) | 600 sq ft | $150-300 | $1-3 per linear ft |
| Roof | 1,500-2,500 sq ft | $300-600 | $0.20-0.50 |
| Patio/Walkway | 200-400 sq ft | $75-200 | $0.15-0.35 |
Factors That Affect Pressure Washing Cost
- Square footage: Larger areas cost more
- Surface type: Delicate surfaces require soft washing (more expensive)
- Condition: Heavy buildup takes longer
- Accessibility: Hard-to-reach areas cost 25-50% more
- Height: Multi-story homes require special equipment
- Stain severity: Oil stains need degreasing ($50-150 extra)
- Additional services: Sealing, staining, gutter cleaning
- Location: Urban areas cost 20-40% more
- Season: Spring/summer peak season may cost more
- Frequency: Regular customers often get discounts
💡 What's Typically Included vs. Extra
Usually Included:
- Pre-treatment of surfaces
- High-pressure or soft washing
- Cleaning specified areas
- Basic stain removal
- Post-cleaning rinse
Usually Extra Cost:
- Deck/fence sealing or staining
- Driveway sealing
- Heavy degreasing for oil stains
- Gutter cleaning
- Window cleaning
- Rush/same-day service
🔄 Pressure Washing vs. Power Washing vs. Soft Washing
Understanding the Differences
| Method | Pressure | Temperature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure Washing | 1500-4000 PSI | Cold water | Driveways, concrete, decks, fences |
| Power Washing | 1500-4000 PSI | HOT water | Oil/grease stains, commercial cleaning |
| Soft Washing | 500 PSI or less | Cold water + chemicals | Siding, roofs, delicate surfaces |
⚠️ Surfaces That Should NOT Be Pressure Washed
- Asphalt shingles: Use soft washing only (high pressure damages shingles)
- Old/damaged siding: Can force water behind siding
- Windows: High pressure can break seals
- Painted surfaces (old paint): Can strip paint
- Wood (high pressure): Can gouge and splinter wood
- Electrical panels/meters: Water damage risk
- Air conditioning units: Can damage fins
- Delicate landscaping: High pressure kills plants
📅 How Often Should You Pressure Wash?
Recommended Frequency
| Surface | Frequency | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| House Exterior | Every 1-2 years | Spring (before summer) |
| Driveway | 1-2 times per year | Spring & fall |
| Deck/Patio | Annually | Spring (before sealing) |
| Fence | Every 1-2 years | Spring (before staining) |
| Roof | Every 2-3 years | Spring or fall |
| Walkways | 1-2 times per year | Spring & fall |
Signs You Need Pressure Washing Now
- Green algae or mold growing on siding or deck
- Black streaks on roof (algae stains)
- Oil stains on driveway
- Dirt buildup making surfaces look dingy
- Slippery surfaces from algae (safety hazard)
- Preparing to paint or stain surfaces
- Preparing to sell your home
- After winter to remove salt and grime
🔍 How to Find Reliable Pressure Washers Near You
💡 Why Local Platforms Save You Money
On zero-fee platforms like GigNGo, you connect directly with local pressure washers without middleman markups:
- No platform fees: Washers don't pay 15-30% commission, so they charge less
- Direct communication: Discuss your needs and get accurate quotes
- Local professionals: Find experienced washers in your neighborhood
- Real reviews: See feedback from actual local customers
- Build relationships: Find reliable washers for annual maintenance
- Transparent pricing: See what you're paying upfront
- Better for washers: They keep 100% of earnings, so they're more motivated
- Flexible scheduling: Easier to arrange convenient times
Average savings: 30-50% compared to national chains, while washers earn more. Everyone wins.
Qualities of Reliable Pressure Washers:
- Good reviews from multiple customers (10+ reviews)
- Before/after photos showing their work
- Professional equipment (commercial-grade washer)
- Insurance and bonding
- Knowledge of proper PSI for different surfaces
- Offers both pressure washing and soft washing
- Clear pricing with no hidden fees
- Willing to provide references
- Explains their process and methods
- Offers free estimates
- Punctual and professional
- Uses eco-friendly cleaning solutions
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pressure washing cost?
Pressure washing costs $0.08-0.35 per square foot or $175-450 for average homes. Pricing factors: surface type, square footage, condition, accessibility, and location. Driveway: $100-250. House exterior: $200-500. Deck: $150-350. Patio: $100-300. Fence: $150-400. Additional services: gutter cleaning, roof washing, sealing. On local platforms like GigNGo, find pressure washers 30-50% cheaper than national chains.
What's the difference between pressure washing and power washing?
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water at normal temperature (1500-4000 PSI). Power washing uses high-pressure HOT water. Both are effective for cleaning. Pressure washing: better for most residential needs, less expensive, effective for driveways, decks, siding. Power washing: better for oil/grease stains, commercial applications, heavy-duty cleaning. For most homeowners, standard pressure washing is sufficient. The terms are often used interchangeably.
How often should I pressure wash my house?
Most homes need pressure washing every 1-2 years. Recommendations: House exterior: annually (spring), Driveway/walkways: 1-2 times per year, Deck/patio: annually (before sealing), Fence: every 1-2 years, Roof: every 2-3 years (soft washing). Factors affecting frequency: climate, nearby trees, pollution, mold/mildew growth, and high-traffic areas. Regular pressure washing prevents permanent staining and extends surface life.
Can pressure washing damage my home?
Yes, if done incorrectly. Damage risks: stripping paint, gouging wood, breaking window seals, forcing water behind siding, damaging roof shingles, killing plants, and etching concrete. Prevention: hire experienced professionals, use proper PSI for each surface, use soft washing for delicate surfaces, avoid high pressure on old/damaged materials, and keep pressure washer moving. Professional pressure washers know correct techniques and pressure levels for each surface type. DIY pressure washing causes most damage.
What is soft washing and when should I use it?
Soft washing uses low pressure (500 PSI or less) with specialized cleaning solutions to kill mold, algae, and bacteria. Use soft washing for: house siding, roofs, painted surfaces, wood (delicate), stucco, and any surface that could be damaged by high pressure. Benefits: safer for surfaces, longer-lasting results (kills organisms at root), no damage risk, and better for delicate materials. Cost: similar to pressure washing ($200-500). Most professionals offer both methods and will recommend the right one for your surfaces.
How long does pressure washing take?
Pressure washing takes 1-6 hours depending on project size. Driveway: 1-2 hours. House exterior (single-story): 2-3 hours. House exterior (two-story): 3-5 hours. Deck: 1-3 hours. Fence: 2-4 hours. Full property (house + driveway + deck): 4-8 hours. Factors affecting time: surface area, condition, accessibility, and services included. Most residential projects completed in one visit. Surfaces are ready to use immediately after drying (1-2 hours for most surfaces).
Should I pressure wash before painting or staining?
Yes, always pressure wash before painting or staining. Benefits: removes dirt and mildew, ensures proper paint adhesion, reveals surface damage needing repair, and provides clean surface for best results. Timing: pressure wash 2-3 days before painting (allows drying time), wait for complete drying (24-48 hours), inspect for damage after washing, and repair any issues before painting. Cost: $150-400 for most projects. Skipping this step leads to peeling paint and failed staining. Professional painters often require pressure washing first.
Is pressure washing eco-friendly?
Pressure washing can be eco-friendly with proper practices. Eco-friendly options: biodegradable cleaning solutions, water reclamation systems (some pros offer this), soft washing (uses less water), and proper chemical disposal. Environmental concerns: runoff into storm drains, chemical pollution, and high water usage (2-4 gallons per minute). Ask pressure washers about: eco-friendly solutions, water conservation practices, proper disposal methods, and certifications. Many local professionals prioritize environmental responsibility. Soft washing is generally more eco-friendly than high-pressure washing.
Can I pressure wash my own home?
You can, but professional pressure washing is recommended for most projects. DIY risks: surface damage from incorrect PSI, injury from ladder falls or pressure, incomplete cleaning, water damage to home interior, and equipment rental costs ($50-100/day). Professional benefits: proper equipment and training, insurance coverage, faster completion, better results, and knowledge of correct techniques. DIY appropriate for: small patios, driveways (if experienced), and low-risk surfaces. Hire professionals for: house siding, roofs, multi-story homes, delicate surfaces, and large projects. Cost difference often minimal when factoring in rental and time.
How do I find reliable pressure washers near me?
Find reliable pressure washers by: checking reviews on local platforms like GigNGo, looking for before/after photos of their work, verifying they have professional equipment and insurance, getting detailed written quotes from 3-5 washers, asking about their methods (pressure vs. soft washing), requesting references from past customers, and choosing local professionals with established presence. Avoid: extremely low prices, no insurance, vague about methods, or requiring full payment upfront. Local platforms connect you directly with vetted washers without middleman fees, saving 30-50%.
Find Pressure Washing Services Near You
Connect with experienced local pressure washers. Compare quotes, check reviews, and save 30-50% compared to national chains.
Find Pressure Washers✓ Free to post ✓ Local professionals ✓ Direct pricing ✓ Real reviews
🎬 Final Thoughts
Professional pressure washing is an investment in your home's appearance, protection, and value. By understanding the costs, knowing which method to use for each surface, and using local platforms to find quality services, you can keep your property looking pristine without overpaying.
✅ Quick Recap: Pressure Washing Services
Typical Costs:
- Per square foot: $0.08-0.35
- House exterior: $200-500
- Driveway: $100-250
- Deck: $150-350
- Save 30-50% using local platforms
Key Methods:
- Pressure washing for hard surfaces
- Soft washing for delicate surfaces
- Power washing for heavy grease/oil
- Annual maintenance recommended
Finding Reliable Washers:
- Check reviews and before/after photos
- Verify insurance and equipment
- Get 3-5 written quotes
- Use local platforms to save money
- Ensure they know proper PSI levels
Whether you need your house washed, driveway cleaned, or deck restored, finding the right local pressure washer makes all the difference. Take time to research, compare quotes, and choose professionals who do quality work at fair prices.
Ready to transform your property? Post your needs on GigNGo and connect with experienced local pressure washers who do quality work at fair prices.