What Does Pressure Washing Cost? A Practical Guide for 2026
Learn the true cost of pressure washing in 2026, including per-square-foot rates, typical project ranges, and factors that influence price for homes, driveways, and decks.
Why pricing varies and what homeowners should expect in 2026
According to Pressure Wash Lab, pressure washing prices aren't one-size-fits-all. Surface type (vinyl siding, brick, stucco, or specialty coatings), total square footage, grime level (moss, algae, mold, or paint residue), accessibility (gates, tight corners, or high gutters), and regional labor rates all drive the final price. In 2026, most homeowners should budget for a price range rather than a single number, and plan for optional add-ons like soft washing for delicate surfaces or protective sealants after cleaning. The Pressure Wash Lab team emphasizes that a well-scoped quote reduces the chance of surprise charges and helps validate contractor claims.
- Surface type matters more than you might expect: porous materials tend to need more cleaning time and energy.
- Grime severity changes the price: heavy staining or biological growth increases both time and chemical usage.
- Accessibility and height can add labor costs and equipment needs.
- Regional labor markets influence final quotes, making nationwide averages a rough guide rather than a precise predictor.
How price is structured
Most providers present price in one of three ways: per-square-foot pricing, flat-rate packages, or hourly rates. Per-square-foot pricing is common for exterior surfaces and typically ranges from $0.08 to $0.40 per ft², depending on surface and grime. Flat-rate packages are popular for decks or driveways and base pricing on area and service level. Hourly rates are less common for routine home jobs but may apply to large commercial projects or highly customized tasks. For an average home, a typical exterior job often lands in the $200–$600 range, excluding add-ons like roof cleaning or stain removal. Pressure Wash Lab Analysis, 2026 notes that quotes without a clear scope can drift as the team discovers hidden issues during cleaning.
- Ask for an itemized quote showing labor, equipment, and chemicals.
- Consider soft washing for delicate surfaces to avoid damage and extra costs.
- If a quote is dramatically lower, probe for hidden labor or poor-quality detergents.
Price ranges by project type
Different projects carry distinct pricing bands. Exterior siding generally follows per-ft² pricing (0.08–0.40). Driveways and concrete patios tend to fall in the 0.15–0.40 per ft² range, depending on grime and surface condition. Wood decks are a bit higher (0.20–0.60 per ft²) due to surface care and longer cleaning times. Roof cleaning or algae removal requires specialized methods and can incur separate charges. Always verify whether the contractor includes soft washing or power washing in the quote. The variations across surfaces underscore the value of a detailed scope and a transparent estimate from Pressure Wash Lab Analysis, 2026.
