Is Your Deck Looking Ruff? Let's Talk Pressure Washing Costs!
Does your deck need a serious spa day after enduring muddy paws and dropped treats? Knowing the cost to get it sparkling clean is the first step. Let's break down what you can expect to pay per square foot for pressure washing your deck.
Understanding the Cost: Per Square Foot Breakdown
Typically, pressure washing a deck can range from $0.30 to $0.80 per square foot. However, this is a general range, and several factors can influence the final price.
Factors Influencing the Price
- Deck Size: This is the most obvious factor. Larger decks will naturally cost more to clean.
- Deck Condition: Heavily soiled decks with lots of mold, mildew, or algae buildup will require more time and effort to clean, increasing the price.
- Material: Different decking materials (wood, composite, etc.) may require different cleaning techniques and pressures, affecting the cost. Softer woods like cedar require lower pressure to avoid damage.
- Accessibility: Is your deck easy to access? If it's on the second story or has limited access, the cleaning crew may charge more due to the extra effort and equipment needed.
- Location: Prices vary geographically. Urban areas tend to have higher labor costs than rural areas.
- Professional vs. DIY: Renting a pressure washer and doing it yourself is cheaper upfront, but consider the time investment, risk of damage (especially with pets and landscaping nearby!), and cleaning solutions you'll need to purchase.
- Extra Services: Some companies offer additional services like staining or sealing the deck after cleaning, which will add to the total cost.
Example Scenarios:
- Small, basic deck (100 sq ft): Expect to pay around $30 - $80.
- Medium deck with moderate staining (300 sq ft): Likely to be in the range of $90 - $240.
- Large, heavily soiled deck (500 sq ft): Could cost $150 - $400 or more.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | DIY Pressure Washing | Professional Pressure Washing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Time | More time investment | Less time investment |
| Effort | Requires physical effort | Less physical effort |
| Skill | Requires some skill to avoid damage | Professional expertise and experience |
| Equipment | Need to rent or purchase equipment | Equipment provided |
| Safety | Responsibility for your own safety | Insured and trained professionals |
| Results | Potentially inconsistent results | Consistent, high-quality results |
Tips for Saving Money on Deck Cleaning
- Get multiple quotes: Contact several pressure washing companies and compare their prices and services.
- Consider off-season cleaning: You may find better deals during the off-season (fall or winter in some climates).
- Do some prep work yourself: Remove furniture, potted plants, and debris from the deck before the cleaning crew arrives.
- Bundle services: If you're also planning to stain or seal your deck, ask if the company offers a bundled discount.
- Maintain your deck regularly: Regular sweeping and cleaning can prevent heavy buildup, reducing the need for aggressive pressure washing.
Extra Tip for Pet Owners
Be sure to keep your furry friends indoors or safely away from the deck during the pressure washing process. The high-pressure spray can be harmful, and cleaning solutions may be irritating to their paws and skin.