How to Start a Pressure Washing Business: Complete Guide

Pressure washing is one of the few service businesses you can start without a trade license or massive startup costs — but that doesn’t mean it’s easy money. Like any business, it takes planning, clear pricing, and the right gear to make it work. For many first-time entrepreneurs, it’s an entry point into the trades that’s both low-risk and relatively quick to launch. And with residential and commercial demand rising steadily, pressure washing can be a reliable income stream with room to grow if managed right.

According to IBISWorld, the exterior building cleaners industry — which includes pressure washing — is worth over $1.2 billion in the U.S. alone. And with more people investing in home improvement and property maintenance, there’s no shortage of demand for residential and commercial cleaning services.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• What it takes to start a pressure washing business.
• How to price your services, find loyal customers, and manage costs.
• Smart systems and strategies to keep things running smoothly.
• Real-world examples of pressure washing businesses that got it right.

What is a Pressure Washing Business?

A pressure washing business offers high-powered cleaning services using specialized equipment to remove dirt, mold, paint, and grime from surfaces like driveways, decks, roofs, and siding. Some contractors focus on residential homes, while others take on larger commercial property or industrial projects.

Pressure washing business is often seasonal (in colder climates), relatively affordable to start, and doesn’t require a lot of formal training or certifications to get going.

Why Start a Pressure Washing Business?

• Low startup costs: You can get started with a basic pressure washer, cleaning solution, and transportation.
• High demand: Homeowners, realtors, property managers, and business owners all need exterior cleaning.
• Quick jobs, fast turnover: Most residential jobs take a few hours, allowing for multiple bookings in a day.
• Scalable: As you grow, you can expand into fleet washing, graffiti removal, or large-scale commercial work.

Challenges of Running a Pressure Washing Business

Remember that it is not all clean surfaces and easy money. Be prepared for:

• Seasonality: Business slows down in winter unless you live in a warm climate.
• Physical labour: You’ll be on your feet, dealing with water, ladders, and sometimes hazardous surfaces.
• Customer acquisition: Like any service business, finding and retaining ideal customers takes effort. Ensure you have a business strategy that address customer pain points.
• Equipment maintenance: Your pressure washing equipment needs regular care to avoid downtime.

How to Start a Pressure Washing Business in 10 Steps

1. Learn How to Pressure Wash

Start with the basics: understand the pressure water industry (PSI), water flow, surface compatibility, safety, and when to use hot vs cold water. Consider shadowing a local pro or taking an online course to avoid beginner mistakes that can damage property — or injure you.

2. Learn About the Pressure Washing Industry and Your Competitors

Research what services other local pressure washing businesses offer. Some useful questions to research include:

• What do they charge? 
• What areas do they cover? 
• Where do they advertise? 

Understanding your local market gives you a competitive advantage and helps you identify gaps in the market.

3. Research and Plan Your Business

Before you buy your first power washer, map out your business goals, identify your ideal customers, and service area. Decide who is a potential client. Are you targeting homeowners, property managers, or small businesses?

Think about what types of jobs you’ll take on: driveways, roofs, fences, storefronts, or fleet vehicles.

4. Create a Business Plan and Strategy

Include an executive summary, service offerings, target market, pricing model, startup costs, and marketing plan. Your business plan doesn’t need to be fancy at first, but it should guide your early decisions.

5. Set Up Your Business Structure

Register your business and choose a legal structure: sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC). An LLC is often recommended for cleaning businesses to protect personal assets.

You’ll also need to:

• Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• Open a business bank account
• Order branded business cards and invoices

6. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Insurance

Check with your city or state for required business licenses. You may need a general business license or specific permits for environmental safety (especially for wastewater disposal).

Insurance is non-negotiable. At a minimum, you’ll want:

• General liability insurance
• Equipment coverage
• Workers’ comp if hiring employees

Need more help? See our full guide on business insurance for independent contractors.

7. Purchase Equipment and Supplies

Essential pressure washing equipment includes:

• Gas or electric power washer (start around $300–$600)
• Nozzles, hoses, and surface cleaners
• Water tanks (if working in areas without easy access)
• Eco-friendly cleaning solution
• Safety gear (gloves, boots, eye protection)

Startup costs typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on whether you’re going residential or commercial.

8. Outline Pricing and Service Packages

Structure your services clearly. Options might include:

• Basic driveway or deck wash
• House washing (siding, gutters, roof)
• Commercial storefront or fleet cleaning
• Add-ons like window washing or rust removal

Charge by square footage, hour, or flat rate depending on the job type. Be sure your pricing covers overhead, labor, travel, and profit margins.

9. Develop Effective Systems and Processes

From quoting jobs to collecting payment, consistent systems keep your business running efficiently. Use software or apps to:

• Schedule appointments
• Send quotes and invoices
• Track expenses
• Collect customer feedback

Start with our free Invoice Maker to look professional and get paid fast.

10. Create a Marketing Strategy

Your ideal customers won’t find you by accident. Get the word out with:

• A mobile-friendly website with contact info and before-and-after photos
• A Google Business Profile with service areas and customer reviews
• Flyers, business cards, and signs in high-traffic neighbourhoods
• Social media posts showing your results and expertise
• Partnerships with landscapers, roofers, or property managers

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Pressure Washing Business?

Startup costs can vary, but here’s a rough breakdown:

• Equipment and tools: $1,500–$4,000
• Business registration and licenses: $100–$500
• Insurance: $500–$1,500 annually
• Marketing materials: $200–$1,000
• Website and hosting: $100–$300 per year

Total estimated cost: $2,500–$7,000

Can a Pressure Washing Business Be Profitable?

Yes, and often surprisingly so. Jobs can range from $100 for a small driveway to over $1,000 for larger projects. Once your equipment is paid off, the majority of revenue is profit.

Typical hourly rates range from $50–$150 depending on location and job type. Upselling products and services, gaining repeat customers, and maintaining low overhead will boost your bottom line.

Tips for Managing a Pressure Washing Business Effectively

• Always confirm jobs with a written quote
• Arrive on time and in branded gear
• Offer referral discounts or seasonal promos
• Ask for online reviews after each job
• Track every job, payment, and expense

Starting a pressure washing business is one of the most accessible ways to break into the service industry. With smart planning, the right tools, and a focus on customer experience, it can be a profitable and rewarding venture