So, you’ve scheduled a professional power washing appointment — nice move! Your siding, driveway, or patio is about to get a major facelift. 💦✨
But now you’re wondering: Should you be home while they’re doing the work? 🤔
Some homeowners like to be present the whole time, while others prefer to leave a key or just let the crew work while they’re away. Truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but knowing the pros and cons of both options can help you decide what’s best for your home, schedule, and peace of mind.
Let’s explore whether staying home or stepping out is the smarter move. 🧽✅
🚪 Option 1: Being Home During the Service
✅ Pros
1. You Can Ask Questions in Real-Time
If you’re home, you can speak with the technician directly. Have a concern about water pressure on old paint? Want to make sure they hit the tricky corner behind the shed? Being present gives you the chance to communicate clearly and avoid assumptions.
2. You Can Provide Access to Locked Areas
Need the side gate unlocked? Storing hoses in the garage? You can easily open up anything the crew might need, without delays or reschedules. 🔑
3. Immediate Walkthrough When They’re Done
If you’re around, the crew can give you a quick walkaround after they finish. You can spot any missed spots or ask for touch-ups before they pack up. 👀
4. Peace of Mind
For some homeowners, just being there provides a sense of security. You can watch how carefully they handle plants, furniture, and your siding — or just feel better knowing your property is being respected. 🧘♂️
❌ Cons
1. Noise & Disruption
Power washing is LOUD. There’s the hum of the machine, the spray of water, and sometimes even shouting between crew members over the noise. If you work from home or have small kids or pets, it might get chaotic. 😵💫
2. You May Feel Like You’re in the Way
Let’s be honest: no one likes hovering. You might feel the urge to peek constantly or stay out of the way — and that can be uncomfortable for both you and the workers. 🙈
3. Limited Flexibility
If you need to run errands, pick up the kids, or take a meeting, being tied to the house for 2–4 hours can mess with your day.
🧳 Option 2: Letting the Crew Work While You’re Away
✅ Pros
1. Zero Disruption to Your Day
Go to work, run errands, or grab coffee with friends — all while your home gets a spa treatment. You come back and boom — it’s done. ☕🚗
2. Trust the Pros to Do Their Thing
Most reputable companies don’t need supervision. They know the drill, bring the right tools, and have systems in place to handle the job independently.
3. Avoid the Noise and Mess
There’s water spraying, mud loosening, debris flying — all part of the process. If you’re not home, you skip the sensory overload. 🎧
❌ Cons
1. Limited Communication if Issues Arise
If something unexpected happens (e.g., a loose shingle, a cracked seal, or a tricky stain that needs extra work), they might not be able to make quick decisions without you there. 📞
2. You Can’t Confirm Completion in Person
When you’re not around, it’s harder to ensure everything was done exactly as expected. You’ll need to rely on before-and-after photos or trust the final walkthrough notes.
3. Security Concerns
Even with reputable companies, some homeowners are nervous about letting strangers onto the property while they’re not home. If this is a concern, make sure the company is insured and has good online reviews. 🔐
🧠 Things to Consider Before Deciding
Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you choose whether to stay or step out:
- Will the crew need access to a hose hookup or locked gate?
- Is there any delicate landscaping or furniture that needs special attention?
- Do you want to review the job in person before payment?
- Are you working from home or needing a quiet space during that time?
- Do you feel comfortable letting workers operate while you’re away?
Answering these will often give you your answer. ✅
📲 Helpful Tips for Either Option
Whether you’re home or not, here are some best practices:
🔑 Leave clear instructions — Note any areas of concern, provide access if needed, and let them know how to contact you.
📷 Request before-and-after photos — This helps confirm the job was completed correctly.
🐶 Secure pets — Whether you’re home or not, keep animals indoors and away from the work area.
🌿 Move delicate items — Patio furniture, potted plants, or fragile décor should be relocated or covered.
📅 Confirm your appointment the day before — Especially if weather is iffy.
✅ Final Thoughts
Should you be home during a power washing service? It depends on your preferences, schedule, and comfort level.
If you enjoy being involved and want to give input on the spot, being home might be the right move. But if you trust your chosen pros and don’t want to deal with the noise or water spray, stepping out can be just as effective.
Either way, choosing a reliable, communicative, and professional company is what really makes the difference. Because when you hire the right people, you don’t have to babysit them — you can just enjoy the results. 🏡💦✨
