If you’ve never hired a professional power washing company before, you might be wondering what to expect. Is it noisy? How long will it take? Will the crew need access to the inside of your home? Do you need to be home the whole time?
Whether you’re having your driveway, siding, or roof cleaned, this article walks you through exactly what happens during a typical power washing appointment — so you can feel prepared and confident when the team arrives. ✅
📅 1. Pre-Visit Coordination
Most professional companies will confirm your appointment the day before — either by phone, email, or text. During this time, they might:
- Reconfirm the areas to be cleaned
- Let you know if weather will impact the job
- Remind you to move vehicles or patio furniture
- Clarify whether you need to be home or not
If you have pets, locked gates, or special instructions, this is a great time to communicate that as well. 🐶🔐
🚚 2. Arrival and Walkthrough
On the day of your appointment, the technician(s) will arrive on time with a truck or van full of equipment. Most will greet you, then do a quick walk-around to:
- Inspect the areas you’ve requested
- Point out any problem spots (mildew, rust stains, delicate paint)
- Confirm your expectations
- Review their process and safety precautions
This is your chance to ask questions, voice concerns, or request adjustments. A good company wants you to feel comfortable with the work before it begins.
🧼 3. Property Prep
Before starting, the crew will prep the space. This includes:
- Connecting hoses to your water spigot
- Covering plants and landscaping if chemicals will be used 🌱
- Taping over electrical outlets or light fixtures
- Setting up safety cones, ladders, or harnesses (if needed)
- Applying pre-treatment solutions (especially for mold/algae)
If you haven’t already moved furniture, toys, or decorations, the tech may do it for you — or ask you to handle it, depending on their policy.
💦 4. The Cleaning Process
This is where the magic happens. The team will use either pressure washing or soft washing, depending on the surface:
- High pressure (2,000–4,000 PSI) for concrete, pavers, brick
- Soft wash (low pressure with cleaning agents) for siding, roofing, wood
They’ll work in sections, applying water and solution evenly, often rinsing afterward to avoid streaking or residue. For larger jobs (like full-home washing), the process may take 2–4 hours. 🕒
Don’t be surprised by the noise — power washing equipment can be loud, similar to a lawnmower. Most crews wear ear protection, and you should consider closing windows during the cleaning.
📸 5. Quality Check and Cleanup
Once the job is complete, the technician will:
- Do a final inspection of all cleaned surfaces
- Rinse any leftover soap or debris
- Pack up equipment and move back any displaced items
- Blow off excess water from walkways and steps
- Take before-and-after photos if requested 📷
A good contractor will walk you around to inspect the results and make sure you’re satisfied before leaving.
💬 6. Payment and Post-Service Tips
Some companies take payment on the spot, while others send an invoice. Expect to receive:
- A written invoice or receipt
- Instructions for any aftercare (especially for sealed surfaces)
- A chance to provide feedback or leave a review 💬
Many companies offer discounts for recurring services or referrals — so be sure to ask!
🏠 What You Don’t Need to Worry About
- Being home all day: As long as exterior water and electricity are accessible, most crews can complete the job without entering your home.
- Bringing water: Crews typically use your water supply — though some commercial jobs may require them to bring their own tanks.
- Interior cleanup: All the work stays outdoors, though you may want to keep windows shut just in case.
✅ Final Thoughts
A professional power washing visit should be smooth, efficient, and surprisingly satisfying. Seeing years of grime melt away from your home is one of those small joys that makes a big difference. ✨
By knowing what to expect, preparing your space, and hiring the right team, you’ll get the most out of your investment — and a home that looks fresh, clean, and ready to shine. 💧🏡
