Power Washing: Fast, Effective Cleaning Tips for Your Home

Power washing, also called pressure washing, blasts stubborn grime off decks, driveways, walls and more. It’s cheaper than hiring a crew and works wonders on dirt, mildew, and old paint. All you need is the right sprayer, a bit of know‑how, and safety gear.

Before you start, pick a pump that delivers 2,500–3,000 psi for house siding and a higher 3,000–4,000 psi unit for concrete or brick. Use a 25‑ft wand for reach, and keep a nozzle attachment handy – a 25° tip for general cleaning, 15° for tougher spots, and a 0° for extreme buildup. Always wear goggles, gloves, and slip‑resistant shoes; the water hits hard and can cause injury.

How Long Does a House Pressure Wash Take?

The time depends on size, surface type, and how dirty it is. A typical two‑story home with a simple paint finish usually takes 30‑45 minutes. Add more stories, intricate trim, or heavy stains and you’re looking at an hour or more. Prep work – like covering plants, closing windows, and sweeping loose debris – can add another 15‑20 minutes.

Speed up the job by working from the top down, letting the water flow naturally over the walls. Keep the nozzle moving; staying in one spot can etch paint or wood. If you hit stubborn oil or gum, switch to a higher‑pressure tip for a few seconds, then back to a wider spread to avoid damage. Most homeowners finish the whole exterior in under an hour with a decent pump.

Can Power Washing Remove Mold?

Yes, power washing can clear early‑stage mold from exterior surfaces. The high‑pressure stream breaks up the fungal roots, while hot water (if your unit has a heater) kills the spores. For best results, mix a mild detergent – a quarter cup of dish soap in a bucket of water – and apply it with a low‑pressure spray first. Let it sit for five minutes, then switch to a 25° nozzle and blast the area.

After the wash, rinse thoroughly and let the surface dry completely. If mold keeps coming back, the issue is likely trapped moisture. Check for leaky gutters, poor ventilation, or shaded areas that stay damp. Fix those problems, then a quick annual pressure wash will keep mold at bay.

If you’re unsure about tackling mold yourself, a professional crew can add antimicrobial treatments that last longer. But for most driveways, patios and siding, a DIY wash does the trick and saves cash.

When deciding whether to DIY or hire pros, weigh the time, equipment cost and risk. Renting a quality pressure washer costs about £30‑£50 a day, plus fuel and cleaning solutions. A professional service charges £120‑£200 for a standard home, but they bring insurance, experience, and can spot hidden damage that amateurs might miss.

If you love the idea of turning power washing into a side hustle, start by mastering the basics on your own house. Track how long each job takes, what detergents you need, and how much fuel you use. That data will help you price services realistically. The biggest hurdles are upfront equipment cost (good pumps start at £500) and insurance. Many new owners underestimate marketing – a simple website, local flyers, and good reviews go a long way.

Bottom line: power washing is a powerful tool for a cleaner home, faster than you think. With the right gear, safety habits, and a bit of practice, you can tackle house exteriors, ditch mold, and even earn extra cash on the side.