Whether you’re running a power washing business or considering hiring one, one question always comes up: “How much should it cost?” 🧼💸
Pricing power washing jobs isn’t just about throwing out a number. It’s about understanding:
- What the job entails 🧽
- The surface area and type of grime 💦
- Market rates in your area 📍
- Your business overhead 🛠️
- And — most importantly — how to be profitable without overcharging
In this article, we’ll break down how to price power washing services fairly and smartly — so you can grow your business sustainably while providing value that keeps customers coming back. 📈✅
📊 Factors That Affect Power Washing Pricing
Before quoting a job, consider the variables that affect your costs and time investment.
1. 🧱 Type of Surface
Different surfaces require different techniques and care.
| Surface Type | Avg. Price Range (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|
| Driveways | $0.15 – $0.30 |
| House siding (soft wash) | $0.30 – $0.80 |
| Roof cleaning | $0.20 – $0.70 |
| Decks & patios | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Fences | $0.15 – $0.40 |
2. 📏 Square Footage
Most jobs are priced by square foot. Larger areas typically mean lower per-foot cost due to scale — but only if the surface is easy to clean.
3. 💦 Type and Severity of Grime
Mildew, algae, oil stains, gum, or paint require different chemicals, dwell time, and pressure settings.
More grime = more labor and materials.
4. 🧪 Chemicals and Equipment Used
Soft washing requires detergents, surfactants, and algaecides. These materials cost money and affect your pricing.
Commercial jobs may also need:
- Hot water equipment
- Specialized surface cleaners
- Extra hoses or water tanks
🧠 The Golden Rule: Know Your Costs
Before setting prices, know your true cost of doing business. This includes:
- Fuel
- Equipment maintenance
- Cleaning agents
- Insurance
- Vehicle wear-and-tear
- Marketing and admin costs
- Labor (even if it’s just you for now)
💡 A job that takes 3 hours and earns $300 sounds great — until you realize it cost $120 in fuel, labor, and supplies.
✅ Use this formula to start:
(Time + Materials + Overhead + Profit Margin) = Final Price
Don’t guess. Track every expense and revisit your pricing often.
🧮 Flat Rate vs. Per Square Foot Pricing
Each has its place.
✅ Per Square Foot
Ideal for standard surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and siding. It’s easy for customers to understand and scale.
✅ Flat Rate
Works better for:
- Small jobs under 500 sq. ft.
- Bundled services (house + deck + fence)
- Gutter or patio furniture cleaning
Set minimum charges ($100–$150) to cover your time for even small jobs.
💬 Realistic Pricing Scenarios
Here’s what you might charge for average-sized areas:
| Service | Avg. Size | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single-car driveway | 300–400 sq. ft. | $50–$120 |
| Home exterior (1,500 sq. ft.) | Whole house | $250–$500 |
| Deck (300 sq. ft.) | Light mold | $75–$150 |
| Roof (1,500 sq. ft.) | Soft wash | $300–$600 |
| Fence (100 linear ft.) | Wood or vinyl | $100–$250 |
🎯 Prices vary by region, competition, and whether you’re serving residential or commercial clients.
💰 Don’t Underprice: Why Cheap Isn’t Smart
While it’s tempting to undercut competitors when starting out, low pricing often leads to burnout.
Problems with underpricing:
- You train customers to expect discounts
- Your profit margins vanish
- You can’t afford better equipment
- You overwork and under-deliver
📉 This can hurt your brand and your sanity.
Instead, focus on the value you provide:
- Professional equipment
- Insured and licensed work
- Safer, longer-lasting results
- Time savings for the homeowner
People don’t just pay for water — they pay for your experience and peace of mind. 💼
💼 Offer Packages and Add-Ons
Upsell services with bundled deals that boost revenue without adding tons of time.
Example Package:
- House siding soft wash: $299
- Add driveway cleaning: +$75
- Add patio + furniture: +$50
Total: $424 (vs. $299 base)
✨ Bundles encourage higher spending and better results for the client.
Also consider:
- Gutter cleaning
- Concrete sealing
- Fence or shed washing
- Pool deck cleaning
📆 Use Seasonal Pricing Wisely
Offer discounts or “early bird” deals during slow months to fill your calendar, such as:
- Spring exterior tune-ups
- Fall mold prevention specials
- Referral discounts in winter
Just be sure your seasonal pricing still meets your profit targets. ❄️🌷☀️🍂
📲 Use Estimate Tools and Templates
Make quoting easier and more professional with:
- Online estimate forms on your website
- Jobber, Housecall Pro, or other CRM tools
- A digital or printed pricing guide
🧾 Bonus: Offer a free quote — it builds trust and helps you close more deals.
🙋♂️ What About Commercial Jobs?
Commercial work typically pays more but involves:
- After-hours service
- Liability insurance
- Safety protocols
- Site walkthroughs
Set higher rates, charge for estimates if necessary, and include contract terms.
📈 Commercial contracts can stabilize your income — just don’t shortchange yourself by underbidding.
🧽 Final Thoughts
Power washing pricing is both an art and a science. The key is to:
- Know your worth
- Understand your market
- Provide undeniable value
- Always cover your costs (and then some)
When you price smartly, you not only stay profitable — you build a trusted, professional brand that keeps customers coming back again and again. 💰💧💼
