Cost to Power or Pressure Wash a House
| Typical Cost | $740 |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $570–$900 |
| Low End | $460 |
| High End | $1,000 |
Cost to Pressure Wash a House
It typically costs about $740 to pressure wash a house. While pressuring washing costs can range from about $570 to $900 for a whole house, extensive projects can cost upward of $1,000. It’s important to note that pressure and power washing are actually two different processes and have different prices. The total cost of your project will depend on whether you choose to pressure or power wash your house, the square footage involved, and labor costs in your area.
Table of Contents:- How much does it cost to pressure wash a house?
- What is the difference in cost between power and pressure washing?
- How much does power or pressure washing cost per square foot?
The difference between pressure and power washing is heat. While pressure washing involves spraying extremely forceful water at a surface to get rid of dirt and stains, power washing uses hot, high-pressure water to get rid of grime. Power washing is the more expensive method, but the one you choose should be based on the type of siding on your home. Not all materials can take the high heat and force of power washing, so you should consult a professional to determine which method you should use. Whichever method you choose, pressure or power washing is a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal. If your home’s exterior is looking a bit tired or dirty, pressure cleaning is a great way to make it look new again without painting.
Power and pressure washing are intensive processes that can be dangerous if you don’t take the necessary precautions. With such high-pressure water being sprayed at your house, it’s best to hire professional power washing services to do the job. Professionals from a power washing company will have the best machinery for the task and the expertise to properly clean your home without breaking windows or ruining your siding. If you’re weighing whether to hire a professional or not, keep in mind that pressure washing is relatively low-cost compared to other common home improvement projects. And if you do it yourself, you’ll still have to rent expensive equipment that may not be as good as a professional’s pressure washer. Renting a pressure-washing rig will typically add about $120 to $230 to your project cost, plus the time it takes you to do the job. All things considered, hiring a contractor is usually worth the extra expense.
Power washing is typically more expensive than pressure washing, as it’s a heavier-duty process. Because power washing uses hot water, it’s great at removing stuck-on substances beyond just dirt.
Still, the difference in price between these two methods should not determine which one you choose. As previously noted, the siding of your house and what it can withstand should guide you when choosing between the two methods. While most siding materials, like stucco, vinyl, wood, brick and metal, can withstand pressure washing, they might not all hold up against power washing. For example, the paint on vinyl siding can begin to peel after a power wash, and shingles may also be too delicate to withstand all of the heat and pressure. Wood typically holds up well under both processes, but mold is always a concern with both pressure and power washing. You’ll need to fix any loose siding before using a pressure or power washer, as water can get into cracks and crevices, allowing mold to grow.
If your home was built in the 1970s or earlier, you should also hire a lead inspector to check out your siding ahead of time. Any lead will need to be removed prior to pressure or power washing, so that it doesn’t drop into the ground by your house.
Concerned about lead in your exterior paint? Hire a professional to remove it
Contractors typically charge about $0.28 to $0.45 per square foot, meaning a 2,000 square foot house often costs about $570 to $900 to pressure wash. Again, power washing will typically be charged at a higher rate than pressure washing, but rates will vary for different companies. Some companies will charge a base amount for the first 500 square feet or so, and then a set rate afterward. It’s always a good idea to check with your contractor ahead of time to see what his or her rates are. You may also be able to get a discount if you’re doing a larger area.
Other Surfaces You Can Pressure Wash:- Driveways
- Patios
- Decks
Besides pressure washing the exterior of your home, you can also have your driveway, patio or deck pressure washed, which you can expect to come at a lower price. Concrete driveways or brick surfaces are very easy to pressure or power wash, and because driveways and patios are often smaller in size, this job won’t cost as much. Decks can be a bit more complicated to wash, especially if they are vinyl or wood. A contractor will have to be wary of getting water in cracks or crevices, and must be gentle with painted vinyl, so decks will usually cost a bit more per square foot.
Ready to get started? Find pressure washing professionals
Note: Costs are estimated at the U.S. national level. Variations depend on factors such as the quality of materials, type of products installed and labor costs. The typical range is assumed to be between the 20th and 80th percentiles. The high-end and low-end costs are the maximum and minimum, respectively. Costs assume that the homeowner manages the project and hires subcontractors as needed. They include a subcontractor markup of 10% for materials and labor. Costs can be higher if a general contractor is managing the project. All numbers are rounded.
Source: 2019 Houzz Remodel Costs Database