Understanding Driveway Pressure Washing Cost in Seattle| Your 2023 Guide
Introduction
Maintaining a clean and well-kept driveway is crucial for maintaining aesthetic appeal and resale value of a property, and the longevity and functionality of the driveway. On top of that, a damaged driveway can create issues for other aspects of the property. This can include:
Invasive plant growth that can affect hardscapes, siding, and the foundation itself.
Pedestrian and vehicle hazards because of slippery surfaces.
Additional legal risk, due to not complying with existing code and violating tenant rights.
One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through consistently maintaining the driveway by pressure washing. However, the cost can vary significantly depending on several factors. This guide aims to dissect the various elements influencing your driveway pressure washing cost, offering insights to homeowners and property managers looking to either hire a professional or take the DIY route.
I. The Factors Influencing Driveway Pressure Washing Cost:
A. Size of the Driveway:
The size of your driveway is one of the primary factors affecting the cost of pressure washing. Larger driveways typically require more time, water, and cleaning solutions, thus increasing the cost. This can be a huge determining factor when considering whether it’s worth taking care of yourself, or hiring a professional to do the job for you. Especially if it’s your first time pressure washing!
B. The Condition of the Driveway:
A driveway laden with stubborn stains, moss, or algae will require more intensive cleaning, impacting the overall price. Many pressure washing machines in stores like Home Depot, Harbor Freight, or Lowes may not have the “juice” required to take care of stubborn stains either, so hiring a pro could be your best option.
C. Type of Material:
Different driveway materials like asphalt, concrete, or pavers may require unique cleaning techniques or solutions, which can influence the cost. Some materials may require a lower pressure wash to avoid damage, while others can withstand a more robust cleaning. Even low pressure machines can damage your driveway if you’re not careful, or using the proper angle while washing.
D. Local Labor Costs:
Your geographic location can also play a part in the cost due to varying local labor rates. Some regions may have higher labor costs which can increase the price of professional pressure washing services. Larger pressure washing companies may charge higher rates and have less price transparency, while individual contractors may have more affordable rates and room for negotiation.
E. Frequency of Cleaning:
Regular maintenance can reduce the long-term costs as less labor and resources are needed to maintain a clean driveway compared to a neglected one. Usually, there is a higher fee for the first time your driveway is pressure washed, while subsequent, regularly scheduled cleanings can be at a lower rate.
F. Environmental Considerations:
Eco-friendly cleaning solutions might come at a premium but are worth considering for environmentally conscious homeowners. The choice between standard and eco-friendly solutions can affect the cost. It’s important to also consider what chemicals may be used in the cleaning solutions in case tenants or residents may have allergies etc.
II. Comparing Driveway Pressure Washing Costs:
A. Professional Service vs DIY:
Hiring a professional pressure washing service can be more expensive upfront compared to a DIY approach. However, professionals have the expertise and equipment to do the job efficiently and effectively. On the other hand, DIY can be more time-consuming and may not provide the same level of cleanliness. DIYers may also inadvertently damage property due to their novice skills, while a professional is insured and can provide a warranty. There’s also the opportunity cost of a DIYer having to give up time AND money to clean a driveway, when they could be spending time with family and friends, making money, or both!
B. Regional Price Differences:
As mentioned earlier, the cost of pressure washing services can vary significantly from one region to another due to different labor rates and operational costs. You may be able to find someone who is willing to pressure wash for less if you expand the scope of your search to neighboring cities and towns where labor rates are lower! For example, if you live in South Seattle, it may be worth looking for pressure washers based in Tukwila, or Des Moines.
III. Tips to Reduce Driveway Pressure Washing Cost:
Our number one recommendation to compare costs and find the best deal is to ask pressure washing providers for their cost per square foot.
At Tom’s One Stop Pressure Washing, we believe in 100% price transparency, which is why we have our own pressure washing calculator you can use to accurately estimate your driveway pressure washing cost!
A. Regular Maintenance:
Regular cleaning can prevent the buildup of grime and stains, making future pressure washing quicker and less expensive. It will also help to prevent damage, which can be the difference between a regular cleaning and having to replace an entire driveway!
B. Bundling Services:
Some pressure washing companies offer a variety of home maintenance services, including roof cleaning, which can be bundled together to save on overall costs. This can be especially valuable in areas that have four seasons or heavy rainfall like the Pacific Northwest, where an entire property requires regular exterior maintenance.
C. Shopping Around:
Just like with any search for a contractor, make sure to get several quotes from pressure washers large and small. Some great places to find a variety of options include:
Your Google Maps or Apple Maps app to find pressure washers in a convenient map format, with reviews from their Google Business or Yelp profile.
Angi or Thumbtack for more customized pressure washing filters, like what type of material your driveway is made of, what your availability is, etc.
Facebook neighborhood groups or the Nextdoor app for recommendations from your neighbors
Friends and family
IV. Case Studies: Real-world Driveway Pressure Washing Cost Examples:
On average, pressure washing costs usually range from $180 - $240 nationally, not factoring in unique variables like amount of staining and what cleaning solutions are needed.
At Tom’s One Stop Pressure Washing, we have experience with a variety of hardscapes, including driveways, patios, and more. We typically charge $0.35 per square foot for pressure washing. Visit our contact page to use our handy pressure washing calculator to get a quote you can trust!
In the meantime, here are some before and after pictures of pressure washing projects we’ve been involved in, so you can see the difference we can make at your property!
Conclusion:
Understanding the various factors affecting your driveway pressure washing cost can help you make the most informed decision. As the old saying goes, “knowledge = power.”
Whether you opt for a professional service or decide to tackle the task yourself, being knowledgeable about what influences the cost will help you manage your budget effectively. As always, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you have, and we will point you in the right direction, even if it means you choosing to work with someone else (preferably not the case!). Check out our testimonials page if you’re curious about what others are saying about us!