Pressure washing looks simple to price until a “quick driveway” eats half a day. Start from time and chemical cost per job type, then derive the per-square-foot rate.
Every job includes travel, unloading, hose runs, and pack-up. Count that time. Add chemicals (sodium hypochlorite, surfactant), fuel, and equipment wear, then add overhead and profit.
With $45/hour pay, 15% overhead, 20% margin, and $5 setup per job:
| Job | Hours | Chem & fuel | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driveway, up to 600 sq ft | 1.25 | $8 | $100 |
| House wash, single story | 2.5 | $18 | $195 |
| Deck or patio | 2 | $12 | $155 |
| Minimum service charge | 1 | $3 | $80 |
Divide each job price by its typical size. A $100 driveway of 600 square feet works out to about $0.17 per square foot. Keep per-foot rates per surface type, because soft-washing siding and roofs takes longer and uses more chemical than flat concrete.
Small jobs still cost you travel and setup. A minimum charge, here about $80, keeps a single sidewalk from losing money.
Two-story homes and roofs need ladders, more time, and more insurance exposure. Add a surcharge or price them as separate line items.
Use the free pressure washing calculator to price every service from your costs and make a professional price list in minutes.
Open the pressure washing price list maker