If you’re planning to power wash your property, one of the first things you probably want to know is: How long will it take? Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a pro, understanding the time commitment can help you schedule the job more efficiently and manage expectations.
Let’s take a look at how long it really takes to power wash a house, driveway, or deck—and what factors can speed things up (or slow them down). 💦
🏠 Power Washing a House
Power washing an entire house is a big task. The total time depends on:
- Size of the home (1-story vs. 2-story)
- Type of siding (vinyl, brick, stucco)
- Level of dirt or mildew
- Access and obstructions (landscaping, furniture, etc.)
- DIY or professional service
🔢 Average time estimates:
- Small, one-story house (under 1,200 sq ft): 1.5–2 hours
- Medium, two-story home (1,200–2,500 sq ft): 2–4 hours
- Large home (2,500+ sq ft): 4–6 hours or more
If you’re renting a power washer for the first time, it may take longer due to setup, learning curves, or trial-and-error with nozzles and settings.
💡 Tip: Apply detergent first and let it soak for 10–15 minutes before rinsing—this helps break down grime faster.
🛣️ Power Washing a Driveway
Driveways are typically easier and faster than house exteriors, but still require attention to detail. Things that affect the time include:
- Size of the driveway
- Stain level (oil, tire marks, mildew)
- Surface type (concrete, asphalt, pavers)
- Pre-treatment or chemical use
🔢 Average time estimates:
- Single-car driveway (300–400 sq ft): 30–45 minutes
- Double-car driveway (600–800 sq ft): 1–1.5 hours
- Large or long driveways (1,000+ sq ft): 2–3 hours
Using a surface cleaner attachment can significantly cut down cleaning time and deliver more consistent results.
🪵 Power Washing a Deck
Decks are more time-consuming due to their delicate material and detailed surfaces (railings, steps, corners). Wood also requires lower pressure, which takes longer to clean thoroughly.
🔢 Average time estimates:
- Small deck (100–200 sq ft): 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Medium deck (300–400 sq ft): 1.5–2 hours
- Large wraparound deck: 3+ hours
You’ll also want to factor in time for:
- Removing furniture and plants
- Applying wood-safe detergent
- Letting cleaner soak
- Using a low-pressure fan nozzle to avoid splintering
🪵 Pro tip: Always power wash along the grain of the wood for the best results.
🛠️ Other Time Considerations
- Setup & teardown: Plan for 15–30 minutes
- Chemical dwell time: Allow 10–15 minutes after applying detergent
- Refilling water or fuel: Add 10–20 minutes for gas models or limited water supply
- Drying time (for painting/sealing): Usually 24–48 hours post-cleaning
📝 Final Thoughts
Power washing jobs can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the size, surface, and your experience level. Taking your time, using the right tools, and prepping properly will ensure better results and fewer repeat passes.
Plan ahead, clear your schedule, and enjoy the satisfaction of watching dirt disappear. ⏳🧼✨
