Overview
Pressure washing removes dirt, mildew and some stains from concrete. Surface cleaners give even results.
Oil and rust stains may need special treatments.
How it typically works
- Surface clean. Rotary cleaners even the finish.
- The provider does a walk-around. They check for loose siding, open vents and fragile areas first.
- Water access is needed. Most providers connect to an outdoor spigot.
- Expect plant protection. Good providers pre-wet or cover plants when using cleaning solutions.
- Describe the surfaces. Concrete, siding, wood and roofs each need different pressure and cleaning solutions.
- Pre-treat stains. Degreasers help.
- Rinse and optional seal.
Before you decide
- Etching risk. Too much pressure can etch concrete.
- Sealing protects. Sealer helps resist stains.
- Paint and coatings can lift. Washing can reveal paint that was already failing.
- High pressure can damage surfaces. Siding, wood and roofs usually call for soft washing.
- Stains vary. Oil, rust and organic stains need different treatments, and some may not fully lift.
- Runoff rules exist. Some cities restrict washing water into storm drains.
What to have ready
- Any HOA, landlord or property manager rules that apply.
- Rough measurements or quantities, if they matter for the job.
- Your timeline, and whether anything is urgent.
- A short description of the job and where it is on the property.
- Photos, if you have them; they help a provider understand the job faster.
Warning signs
- Requests for large cash deposits before any work is scheduled.
- Unwilling to share proof of insurance or a license where one is required.
- No local address or references you can check.
- Suggesting you skip a required permit to save money.
- No written estimate, or an estimate with vague scope.
Questions to ask a provider
- What cleaning solutions do you use, and are they safe for plants and pets?
- Are you insured if a surface or window is damaged?
- Do you offer sealing after cleaning?
- Do you use soft washing for siding and roofs?
- Is the price per square foot or a flat rate?
- How do you handle runoff?
Frequently asked
- Will pressure washing remove oil stains?
- It can lighten them, often with degreaser, but may not remove them fully.
- Should I seal after washing?
- Many do to protect the surface.
- How often should I pressure wash?
- Many homeowners clean driveways and siding once a year, but shade, trees and climate can change that.
Related topics
- Commercial Pressure Washing: Storefronts, lots and dumpster pads.
- House Soft Washing: Low-pressure cleaning for siding.
- Roof Cleaning: Removing algae and moss from roofs.