How to Price Pressure Washing Jobs: The Complete 2026 Guide

Pricing pressure washing jobs is one of the biggest challenges for new and experienced washers alike. Price too high and you lose the job. Price too low and you are working for free. This guide will show you exactly how to price every type of job for maximum profit.

The Two Main Pricing Methods

There are two primary ways to price pressure washing jobs: per square foot and per hour. Each has its place, and the best washers know when to use which method.

1. Per Square Foot Pricing

This is the most common and recommended method for residential work. It is transparent for customers and ensures you get paid fairly for larger jobs.

2. Hourly Pricing

Hourly pricing works best for commercial contracts, fleet washing, and jobs where square footage is hard to measure. Most washers charge between $75 and $150 per hour depending on their market and equipment.

Pricing Specific Services

Driveway Cleaning

Driveways are the bread and butter of most pressure washing businesses. They are relatively quick, easy to measure, and customers understand the value.

• Standard concrete: $0.15 to $0.25 per square foot
• Pavers or stamped concrete: Add 25% to 50% more
• Heavy oil stains: Add $25 to $50 for pre-treatment

Example: A 1,000 square foot driveway at $0.20 per square foot equals $200. If it has heavy staining, quote $225 to $250.

House Washing

House washing requires more skill and the right chemicals (soft wash method). Price based on total square footage of the exterior walls.

• Single story: $0.25 to $0.35 per square foot
• Two story: $0.35 to $0.50 per square foot
• Three story or difficult access: Add 25% or more

Roof Cleaning

Roof cleaning is one of the most profitable services but also carries the most risk. Price accordingly.

• Asphalt shingles: $0.30 to $0.50 per square foot
• Tile roofs: $0.50 to $0.75 per square foot
• Metal roofs: $0.40 to $0.60 per square foot
• Steep pitch (over 6/12): Add 25% to 50% for safety

Factors That Affect Pricing

Your base rates should be adjusted based on these factors:

• Your market: Prices in Los Angeles differ from rural Texas
• Difficulty of access: Steep hills, narrow gates, long hose runs
• Condition of surface: Heavy algae or staining takes longer
• Your experience: Veterans can charge premium rates
• Time of year: Peak season allows higher pricing

How to Measure Square Footage Fast

The fastest way to measure properties without visiting them is using satellite imagery. Tools like SprayFlow's Satellite Scout let you draw polygons on Google Maps to calculate exact square footage in seconds.

Final Tips for Pricing Success

1. Know your costs: Calculate your hourly operating cost (truck, equipment, chemicals, insurance) before setting prices.
2. Set a minimum: Never take a job for less than $150 to $200. Your time is valuable.
3. Quote fast: The first washer to respond usually gets the job. Use satellite measurement to quote instantly.
4. Be confident: If you price fairly and do quality work, customers will pay your rates.
5. Raise prices yearly: Your costs go up every year. Your prices should too.

Pricing pressure washing jobs does not have to be complicated. Start with the rates in this guide, adjust for your market, and track your results. Over time, you will dial in the perfect pricing for your business.