Pricing Strategies
You’ll spend an average of $0.40 per square foot for a professional power washer. Most pros simply charge a flat rate of $90 to $200 on average. If you’re certain an hourly rate will work best for you, consider charging between $25 and $100 per hour. A square-foot pricing model works best for pressure washing multiple surfaces, with a recommended charge between $0.10 and $0.50 per square foot. Use a flat rate pricing strategy, as customers appreciate knowing exactly how much they will spend.
Earning Potential
The average salary for pressure washers is $44,520 per year, equivalent to $21.40 per hour. However, the top 10% of pressure washers can earn as much as $62,393 per year or around $30 per hour. A part-time pressure washing business can generate $54,000 per year in revenue. If you charge approximately $300 per house and power wash 5 houses a week, you’re making $1,500 in sales, which totals about $6,000/month.
Equipment and Services
Having the right equipment is key to delivering excellent services. Pressure washing services are in demand for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The average cost to pressure wash a 2,000 sq. ft. home is around $625 for two hours of labor.
Profitability and Tips
How profitable a pressure washing business can be varies, with earnings ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 in 2021. This sector can be quite profitable with the right approach.
Steps and Start-Up Costs
Here are the 12 steps to start a pressure washing business:
- Find the Right Location
- Create a Business Plan
- Register Your Business
- Get Necessary Licenses and Permits
- Purchase Equipment
- Get Insurance
- Develop Your Brand Identity
- Create a Website
- Market Your Business
- Set Your Rates
- Hire Employees
- Provide Great Service
To get started, you need equipment such as a pressure washer, marketing materials, insurance, a vehicle and trailer, and cleaning detergents and waxes. High profit margins and low start-up costs make this business accessible.
Business Considerations
Selecting the right business structure is crucial. Choosing between a sole proprietorship, an LLC, or a corporation affects liability and taxation. For jobs like pressure washing a car, businesses charge a flat rate of around $50 to $100, including "detailing."
Given the constant demand, running a pressure washing business offers more stability and freedom than traditional employment. Self-employed pressure washers have the freedom to choose their clients and travel distances to work sites.
Improve your skills by working for an existing business, gain experience, and understand what equipment is the best investment. To learn to use pressure washing equipment, you can start by practicing on your own property.