How Much to Charge For Pressure Washing
How Much to Charge For Pressure Washing
How much should I charge for pressure washing?
Determining how much to charge for pressure washing can be challenging. You need to cover your costs, make a profit, and remain competitive. In this guide, we'll cover typical pricing methods and break down the factors that influence pressure washing prices to help you determine the optimal rates for your business.
| Fee structure | Typical price range |
|---|---|
| Minimum price | $150 – $400 |
| Per hour | $50 – $350+ |
| Per square foot | $0.10 – $1.00 |
| Per linear foot | $1 – $6 |
| Flat rate | $200 – $600 |
Minimum price
Before diving into specific pricing models, it's crucial to establish a minimum price. This is the lowest amount you're willing to accept for any job, regardless of size.
Why have a minimum? A minimum job price ensures you're always covering your basic operating expenses (fuel, travel time, wear and tear on equipment) and compensating yourself for your time.
How to calculate it: Factor in your hourly operating costs, the estimated time for the smallest possible job, and your desired profit margin. Depending on your experience and location, a typical minimum can range anywhere from $150 to $400.
Per hour
Charging by the hour is straightforward and simple to calculate and understand. However, hourly pricing may make it challenging to estimate a job's total cost up front, potentially leading to customer dissatisfaction if the job takes longer than expected.
Typical hourly rate: $50 to $160 per hour is a common starting range, but this varies based on location, experience, and the complexity of the work, with some pros charging $350 per hour or more.
When to use it: Pricing per hour is best suited for jobs where the square footage isn't a good indicator of the work involved, such as intricate patio designs or heavily soiled surfaces requiring extra attention.
Some professionals charge varying hourly rates based on the surface they are cleaning, with one standard rate for flatwork, another rate for siding, another for roofs, and so on.
Per square foot
Pricing per square foot is most often used for large, relatively uniform surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and siding. This pricing method is common in the pressure washing industry, with professional rates ranging from $0.10 to $1.00 per square foot, depending on the location, surface, dirt level, and accessibility.
| Location | Typical price per square foot |
|---|---|
| Home exterior | $0.15 – $0.50 |
| Gutters | $0.20 – $0.60 |
| Deck | $0.30 – $0.80 |
| Driveway | $0.10 – $0.40 |
| Roof | $0.40 – $1.00 |
A per-square-foot pricing structureprovides a clear, predictable cost for the customer, but is less suitable for jobs with varying degrees of dirt or intricate designs. When possible, it's always best to assess the job site before quoting a price.
Important note about per-square-foot pricing:
For home exterior pressure washing, some pros calculate the price based on the square footage of the surface area being cleaned. However, others charge based on the home's square footage which they can find online using programs like Google Earth. Always make sure your customer knows which method you use so there are no surprises.
Per linear foot
Charging per linear foot is a popular pricing method to use when cleaning fences, gutters, and long, narrow surfaces. A typical rate for this pricing method can range from $1 to $6 per linear foot, measuring the total length of the surface to be cleaned, and then multiplying by the per-linear-foot rate.
Important factors to consider when pricing a job per linear foot:
Height: Taller fences or gutters are more difficult and time-consuming.
Material: Certain materials require special cleaning techniques.
Obstacles: Obstacles, such as shrubbery in front of fences, increase the price.
Flat rate
Some professionals shift to flat rate pricing once they've done several jobs and have a general idea of how long each job typically takes. The table below shows typical price ranges for specific jobs. However, every job still brings a unique set of challenges, so charging flat rates is sometimes a risk.
| Location | Average flat rate price |
|---|---|
| Home exterior | $200 – $600+ per story |
| Gutters | $150 – $200+ |
| Deck or patio | $200 – $500+ |
| Driveway | $150 – $350+ |
| Roof | $500 – $800+ |
How much to charge for power washing
While often used interchangeably, power washing is different from pressure washing. Power washing uses heated water or steam, which often necessitates different pricing. Power washing can be more effective for certain stains.
Pricing: Power washing generally commands a higher price than standard pressure washing due to the added equipment and fuel costs. Expect to add 20% to 40% to your standard pressure washing rates.
When to use it: Ideal for removing grease, oil stains, and other stubborn grime.
What impacts how much to charge for pressure washing?
Several external factors can influence your pricing strategy:
Experience & reputation: A well-established business with a good track record and positive customer reviews online can charge premium rates. As a new business, you may need to charge lower prices to attract initial customers.
Location & climate:
Northern states with long, harsh winters have a much shorter pressure washing season, which often means higher demand and higher pricing.
Areas with high levels of humidity and mold growth that make pressure washing more labor intensive may support higher prices.
Market: Rates often vary significantly by region in the pressure washing industry. Analyze your competitors' pricing to understand the local market.
A heavily saturated market may mean you need to charge less to land the jobs.
Find ways to stand out from the competition, such as superior service or eco-friendly practices, to justify higher prices.
Travel: Factor in the cost of your travel time, especially for long distances, as well as the price of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and vehicle insurance. Consider defining a specific service area and charging an extra per-mile trip charge for jobs outside of that area.
Dirt Level: Heavily soiled surfaces require more time, effort, and cleaning solutions, justifying a higher price.
Repairs: Note any pre-existing damage to the surface before cleaning (documenting with photos and communicating the issues to the customer) and adjust pricing accordingly. Factor in the cost of materials and labor for minor repairs if applicable, such as replacing loose siding.
Prep required: Account for the time and materials needed to protect plants, furniture, and other delicate items. Explain the need for these precautions to the customer.
Rush services: Consider charging a higher rate for jobs that customers need done quickly.
Bundle pricing: If you do more than pressure washing, offer discounts for customers who bundle multiple services (e.g., window cleaning, concrete sealing, gutter cleaning). This enhances customer satisfaction while increasing your total project cost and profit.
Materials and overhead costs
A key step in nailing down how much you need to charge to make a profit is determining how much it costs you to do the job. Accurately tracking your expenses is essential for profitable pricing. Some important costs to consider include:
Equipment & job supplies: More efficient equipment requires a larger upfront investment but allows for faster job completion. Be sure to factor in not only the cost of equipment but also the cost of maintenance, repairs, fuel, cleaning solutions, and any other necessary job supplies.
Water source: Many pros use the customer's water supply. If you plan to bring your own, factor the cost into your pricing—not just the water cost, but also your cost to transport it to the job site.
Water recovery: Consider the cost of equipment and disposal for water recovery, if required by local regulations.
Other overhead: A company with multiple employees typically has more overhead costs than a "one-person show". But even a self-employed professional with no employees will have at least some of these additional monthly expenses:
Vehicle payment
Insurance payments (car & business)
Internet and phone
Website hosting & maintenance
Marketing
Office rent & expenses
Utilities
Business tax
Employee labor costs, including taxes & benefits
Cleaning solutions for pressure washing can be hard on vehicle and trailer components. Investing in stainless fittings where possible can help prevent premature rust and corrosion, reducing your maintenance and lengthening the time between equipment replacement costs.
Surface material
Different materials require different cleaning techniques and pressures, so some professionals price based on the material once they've done enough jobs to determine how long each one takes to clean.
Concrete: Most durable and easiest to clean, resulting in lower prices
Wood: Requires lower pressure to avoid damage, increasing the time and care needed
Vinyl Siding: Can be prone to damage if too much pressure is applied
Brick: Can be porous and require special cleaning solutions
Stucco: Delicate and requires a soft washing approach
Asphalt Shingles: Should only be cleaned with soft washing to prevent damage
Pressure washing vs. soft washing
Soft washing typically demands a higher price point than pressure washing due to the cost of the cleaning solutions and the specialized equipment required. It can also take longer to perform than pressure washing. Be sure to factor in your extra labor and the specialized materials when you bid.
Soft washing is the industry standard for cleaning roofs, siding, and other delicate surfaces that could be damaged by high-pressure washing.
Commercial vs. residential
Most professionals charge more for commercial properties, as they often require specialized equipment, longer hours, and higher insurance coverage. Residential work typically has lower overhead costs and simpler cleaning requirements. However, some pros drop the price per square foot for very large commercial jobs.
Pressure washing business FAQs
Is pressure washing a good business?
Demand for pressure washing services remains high across residential, commercial, and industrial markets, making it a steady income opportunity. With relatively low startup costs compared to other service businesses, many entrepreneurs find it profitable, especially if they pair pressure washing with related services like window cleaning or landscaping.
What do you need to start a pressure washing business?
At a minimum, you'll need a reliable pressure washer, safety gear, and a transportation method to start a pressure washing business. You may also need:
Business license
Water use permit
Environmental permit
Liability insurance
Commercial auto insurance
High-quality hoses and nozzles
Cleaning detergents and chemicals
Safety equipment to protect yourself (glasses, gloves, hearing protection)
How do you find customers for a pressure washing business?
Networking and online marketing are key to finding customers for a pressure washing business. Start by offering your services to friends, neighbors, and local real estate agents. Post before-and-after photos on social media, run local ads, and list your business on service marketplaces like HomeGuide.
Reviews and word-of-mouth referrals can also expand your customer base quickly. If someone offers a tip, consider asking them to keep the tip and write a positive review instead to help build your reputation.
How profitable is a pressure washing business?
Profit margins for a pressure washing business can be attractive because overhead costs are relatively low once you've purchased essential equipment. Growth potential often depends on your ability to scale operations by investing in additional gear or hiring staff to cover more jobs. Proper marketing, solid customer relations, and efficient operations drive profit.
Steps to pricing a pressure washing job
Setting the right price for a pressure washing job is key to attracting customers, staying competitive, and turning a profit. Whether you're just starting out or looking to boost your bottom line, accurately calculating rates will help you build trust with clients and avoid undercutting your own business.
A summary of the important steps to determine how much you should charge for pressure washing:
Research the competition: Find out what other pressure washing companies in your area are charging for similar projects.
Assess the job: Evaluate the size, surface material, dirt level, and accessibility of the area to be cleaned.
Calculate your costs: Factor in your labor time, materials, travel, and overhead costs. Consider the number of workers needed to finish on schedule.
Determine your pricing model: Choose the pricing model that best suits the job (e.g., per square foot, hourly).
Add your profit margin: Aim for a profit margin of 20% to 40%.
Present your quote: Provide the customer with a clear, detailed quote that outlines the scope of work, pricing, and payment terms.
When to adjust your pricing
Pricing isn't static; it should be reviewed and adjusted periodically. Use the table below as a guideline for when to modify your pricing:
| Increase prices when: | |
| Selling a lot | Booking 100% of the bids you make indicates your prices may be too low, and you can likely increase them without losing customers. |
| Overhead increases | Rising costs of fuel, insurance, or materials necessitate a price increase |
| Value changes | As you gain experience, invest in better equipment, and build a strong reputation, you can justify higher prices. |
| Reduce prices when: | |
| Not selling enough | Booking less than 40% of your bids suggests your prices are too high or that you need to improve your marketing efforts. |
| Return customers | Offer discounts to reward loyal customers and encourage repeat business. |
| High-volume | Lowering the price per square foot on very large jobs (such as commercial work or a multiple building contract) may help land the job and acquire a regular customer. |
Additional tips for pricing success
Here are some additional guidelines to generate consistently happy customers and help grow your pressure washing business:
Be transparent: Clearly communicate your pricing and scope of work to the customer.
Put it in writing: Always provide a written quote to avoid misunderstandings and have the customer sign it before you start the job.
Be flexible: Be willing to negotiate prices, especially for large or repeat jobs.
Provide excellent service: Exceed customer expectations to build a strong reputation and generate referrals.
Invest in marketing: Promote your business through online advertising, social media, and local partnerships.
Track your results: Monitor your income, expenses, and customer feedback to refine your pricing strategy.
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.