Hiring a pressure washing company might seem straightforward — you just want the grime gone, right? But if you don’t ask the right questions up front, you could end up with unexpected costs, damage to your property, or results that fall short of what you expected. 🤔💦
To avoid surprises and ensure a job well done, it’s essential to know what questions to ask before booking a pressure washing service. In this article, we’ll cover the must-ask questions, why they matter, and how to spot red flags that could cost you time and money. ✅🧽
🧠 Why Asking Questions Matters
Pressure washing equipment in the wrong hands can damage siding, strip paint, kill plants, or leave streaks across your windows. Even among professionals, techniques and experience vary.
The right questions help you:
- Gauge a company’s experience 🧠
- Understand what’s included in the price 💰
- Protect your home and landscaping 🏡
- Avoid damage or hidden fees ⚠️
- Get results you’ll actually be happy with 😄
🛠️ 1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This should be the first question you ask. If the company isn’t licensed (where applicable) or doesn’t carry insurance, you’re at risk. Pressure washing involves water, ladders, and high-pressure equipment — a recipe for accidents.
Ask for proof of:
- General liability insurance (to cover property damage)
- Workers’ compensation (to protect against injury claims)
- Business license or registration
🚩 Red Flag: They hesitate or “don’t need insurance for small jobs.” That’s a big no.
🔧 2. What Surfaces Do You Specialize In?
Some companies are great with house siding but lack experience with wood decks, stone, or roofs. Others may be more focused on commercial properties than residential.
Ask what they regularly clean:
- Siding (vinyl, stucco, brick)
- Driveways and walkways
- Decks and fences
- Gutters and roofs
- Windows and patio furniture
Matching their specialties to your needs ensures better results. 🎯
💦 3. Do You Use Pressure Washing or Soft Washing?
This matters more than most homeowners realize.
- Pressure washing: High PSI (2,000–4,000), used for hard surfaces like concrete
- Soft washing: Low PSI + detergents, safer for siding, wood, and roofs
Ask them to explain their methods. If they insist on using high pressure on all surfaces — especially delicate ones like wood or stucco — be cautious. Soft washing is often safer and more effective for residential work. 🧼
🧼 4. What Cleaning Solutions Do You Use?
Ask whether their detergents are:
- Eco-friendly and biodegradable 🌿
- Safe for pets and plants 🐾
- Rinsed off after use
- Strong enough to kill mold, mildew, and algae
It’s also smart to ask if they’ll protect your landscaping or cover electrical outlets before spraying. ✅🌺🔌
🧾 5. What’s Included in Your Price?
Get a detailed breakdown of what’s included in the quote:
- Square footage or type of service covered
- Pre-treatment or detergent costs
- Setup or travel fees
- Post-wash treatments (like sealing or staining)
- Time estimate
Always ask for a written estimate. Verbal pricing can lead to “misunderstandings” later. 📄
🧍 6. Will You Be Doing the Work or Subcontracting?
You want to know who will actually be on your property. Some larger companies subcontract or use temporary labor.
It’s fine if multiple techs are on the team — just ask:
- Will they be trained and insured?
- Can I meet the lead technician?
- Are background checks done?
🏠 For peace of mind, it’s best to know who will be on your property.
📸 7. Do You Have Before-and-After Photos or Reviews?
Reputable companies are proud to show off their work. Ask for:
- A photo gallery of past projects
- Online reviews or testimonials
- Business references (especially for big jobs)
This helps you see the quality of their work and how they treat customers. 📷🗣️
⏱️ 8. How Long Will the Job Take?
Time depends on the size of the area and the level of buildup. Ask for an estimate so you can plan your day.
Typical timeframes:
- Small driveway: 30–45 minutes
- Full house siding: 2–3 hours
- Roof and gutter combo: Half-day
If the timeline sounds too short, it could be rushed. Too long? They may not have the right equipment. ⏳
💵 9. Do You Guarantee Your Work?
A guarantee shows confidence and professionalism. Ask if they’ll:
- Come back for free if you’re not satisfied
- Offer a refund or touch-up
- Explain what is and isn’t covered by the guarantee
🧾 Tip: Get this guarantee in writing if possible.
🚩 10. What Should I Do to Prepare?
A pro should tell you exactly what they need before they arrive:
- Should you move furniture?
- Close windows?
- Keep pets indoors?
- Turn off outdoor lights or water features?
Their readiness to communicate clearly says a lot about how they’ll treat your property. 📋
🧽 Bonus: Ask for a Maintenance Plan
If you’re happy with their work, ask about setting up annual or seasonal cleanings. Some companies offer discounts for repeat customers or pre-scheduled services.
You might also bundle services like gutter cleaning, roof washing, and deck staining for savings. 💰📆
🧼 Final Thoughts
Don’t assume all pressure washing companies are alike — they’re not. The best results come from hiring a pro who understands your home’s materials, uses the right techniques, and takes pride in their work. 👷♂️💦
By asking these key questions, you’ll avoid costly mistakes, protect your home, and enjoy a truly clean exterior that shines for months to come. 🏡✨
