House Pressure Washing Cost Calculator
Washing a house exterior typically costs $0.15–$0.40 per square foot — about $300–$800 for a 2,000 sq ft home. This calculator prices it three ways: by house size, by individual surface, or soft wash vs pressure side by side.
Roofs should be soft-washed, never pressure-washed — pressure strips shingle granules and voids warranties.
Estimates only. Local labor rates vary widely. Get 2–3 quotes before hiring.
How pressure washing pricing works
Pros price house washing per square foot of surface, usually $0.15–$0.40. The rate moves with three things: how dirty the surface is (mold and mildew add dwell time and chemical cost), how high the crew must reach (ladders and lift time), and the method — soft washing costs a bit more per foot than straight pressure because of the detergents involved.
Surface-by-surface pricing is fairer when you only need part of the property done. Concrete is cheapest per foot (fast, forgiving), wood decks cost more (slow passes, lower pressure), and roofs are soft-wash-only at the top of the range.
cost = area × $/sq ft rate (× condition %)
Related tools
Keep exploring: washing pairs naturally with a fresh coat — price it with the Exterior House Painting Cost Calculator — or clean the driveway first with help from the Concrete Driveway Cost Calculator.
House Pressure Washing Cost Calculator FAQ
How much does it cost to pressure wash a house?
Typically $0.15–$0.40 per square foot — about $300–$800 for a 2,000 sq ft home. Heavy mold, multi-story access, and delicate surfaces push toward the high end. Use the whole-house mode above for a range on your home.
How long does it take to pressure wash a house?
A pro crew usually finishes a 2,000 sq ft home in 2–4 hours including setup. DIY takes most of a day once you count equipment pickup, learning the wand, and cleanup.
Soft wash vs pressure washing — which is better?
Soft wash uses low pressure plus cleaning solution; pressure washing uses high-pressure water alone. Soft wash is safer for siding, roofs, and old wood, and it kills mold at the root so it stays clean longer. Pressure is fine for concrete and brick. The compare mode above prices both.
Can pressure washing damage vinyl siding?
Yes, if done wrong — high pressure up close cracks vinyl, forces water behind panels, and strips paint. Pros use a wide fan tip, keep the wand 12+ inches back, and angle downward. When in doubt, soft wash.
How often should I wash my house exterior?
Every 1–2 years in most climates; yearly in humid or heavily shaded areas where algae and mildew grow fast. Driveways and walkways usually need it more often than siding.
Is it cheaper to DIY pressure washing?
Renting a washer runs $75–$150 per day plus detergent and your time — usually $100–$200 all in for a house. A pro charges $300–$800 but brings commercial equipment, insurance, and experience. DIY makes sense for driveways; siding is where pros earn their fee.
Does pressure washing increase home value?
It boosts curb appeal, which appraisers and buyers notice — realtors often cite it among the highest-ROI pre-sale chores. It will not fix underlying damage, but a clean exterior photographs and shows far better.