Do you want to power wash your fence but are unsure how much it costs? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Pressure washing is a great cleaning technique for fences. It can effectively remove surface dirt and debris, grime, and algae buildup. It helps restore your fence to its original glory by renewing its appearance. It can even extend the lifespan of your fence. But how much does it cost? Well, this is the question we’ll be answering today.
In this guide, you will get a comprehensive idea of how much it costs to pressure wash a fence. From average costs to DIY tips and hiring advice, we discuss it all.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about fence power washing.
Average Cost to Pressure Wash a Fence
In the US, the average cost to power wash a fence is around $100-$350 . However, the cost can vary depending on factors like location, size, mold cleanup, etc. If your fence is on the larger side, the total cost will be higher.
Many cleaners charge a fee by size to wash fences. The following table gives you an in-depth cost breakdown by the average residential privacy fence size:
Fence Size in Linear Feet | Fence Size in Square Feet | Average Pressure Washing Cost |
50 | 300–400 | $30–$200 |
100 | 600–800 | $60–$400 |
150 | 900–1,200 | $90–$600 |
200 | 1,200–1,600 | $120–$800 |
250 | 1,500–2,000 | $150–$1,000 |
300 | 1,800–2,400 | $180–$1,200 |
Table: Average Cost to Power Wash Fences by Size
Several factors can come into play and affect the cost of pressure cleaning a fence. Some of these factors include:
- Location
- Labor rate in different zip codes
- Accessibility of the fence
- Local market conditions
Cost Breakdown by Fence Material
Many pressure washing companies can charge you fees based on your fence material. This is because different materials require different amounts of pressure, referred to as pounds per square inch (PSI). Wood, vinyl, composite, metal, and glass are all popular fence materials. You can read more about them below:
There are two types of wood fences: softwood and hardwood. For softwood fences, cleaners use a gentle cleaning approach. This includes lower power washer settings (500 PSI) so that the softer wood does not get damaged. This can often take longer than a hardwood pressure washing job. For hardwood fences, cleaners can use higher pressures, around 1,300 PSI.
Cleaning hardwood fences can cost around $125-$235 , while softwood costs around $250 .
Vinyl fences are durable, low maintenance, and easy to install. They don’t easily chip, crack, or damage a property’s aesthetics. When being washed, these fences can withstand high-pressure levels reaching 2,000 PSI.
The national average cost for cleaning vinyl fence surfaces is around $100-$250 .
Composite is another popular fencing material all over the US. These fences are made from a combination of wood and plastic. They are resistant to weather and mold and can last for years. For best results, use a PSI of around 1,500.
You can expect to pay between $100 and $350 to power wash a composite fence.
Metal fences are among the toughest fencing materials you can find. These fences can be of several types, such as aluminum, steel, and wrought iron. The pressure levels for cleaning these fences can range between 1,800 and 2,300 PSI.
The average cost for pressure washing a metal fence ranges from $130 to $300 .
Glass fences are growing in popularity in both residential and commercial settings. These fences are highly durable and can last for decades. Of course, this means there is more time for dust to build up on the surface and sides of the fence. However, these can be removed with a 2,000-3,000 PSI power wash.
Glass fence cleaning using pressure washers can cost homeowners between $100 and $350 .
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
You can go about a fence washing project in two ways: doing it yourself or hiring local professionals. But which one should you go with?
At first glance, DIY projects might seem like the cheaper option. However, inexperience, equipment rentals, and cleaning supplies can quickly add to the expenses. On the other hand, hiring a professional ensures a faster and more effective wash. As a result, professional cleaning often provides better value in the long run.
Both approaches have their own pros, cons, and expenses. Read on to learn about which one meets your circumstances better.
Factor | Cost Range |
Renting a pressure washer | $40-$100 per day |
Buying a pressure washer | $150-$400 |
Cleaning agents | $20-$50 |
You should also keep some hidden costs in mind. These can include:
- Water bills
- Equipment maintenance
- The potential damage done due to improper pressure settings
- Time and effort.
-
Professional Cleaning
Factor | Cost Range |
Labor | $0.10-$0.50 per square foot |
Job supplies | $40-$70 |
Equipment allowance | $150-$300 |
Labor rates can vary between different areas. Professional pressure washing companies may also charge insurance costs, which can add to the expenses.
If you decide to hire a professional, make sure to consider factors like skill level and availability. This will help you find the right cleaner for your fence washing job.
Additional Cost Factors and Enhancements
In addition to regular cleaning, some extra factors can affect the average cost of pressure washing. For example, how contractors charge to wash a house fence can impact the expenses. Additional enhancements like applying sealants and mold removal can also result in higher costs.
Contractors can charge by the hour of square foot. Many contractors ask for a fixed amount per hour when washing fences. Most, however, charge a fee based on the square footage of your fence. This can have an effect on how much your fence pressure washing costs. Generally, the higher the square footage, the lower the cost per sq ft. Ask your contractor how they charge, as it will help you estimate the cost of pressure washing your fence.
Removing stains, embellishments, and other blemishes can cost extra. Generally, these removals cost between $50 and $100 . However, this cost can rise even further depending on the severity of the stain.
If you want a complete fence washing experience, you should consider applying a sealant. It protects the surface against moisture, UV rays, and other damaging elements. As a result, sealants help your fence look better and last longer. Contractors apply the sealant after cleaning the surface of your fence. It can cost between $200 and $600 to seal a 500 square foot fence.
Thorough home improvement includes removing mold and algae. It can breathe new life into your fence and improve your property’s overall aesthetics. On average, homeowners can expect to pay around $1,000 to remove mold or algae from fences.
Tools and Equipment for DIY Pressure Washing
If you choose to DIY your fence pressure wash, you’ll need some specialized tools and equipment. These include the pressure washer itself, cleaning agents, and safety gear.
You can choose from two types of pressure washers: electric and gas-powered. Electric pressure washers use a motor to drive a pump inside. This pump shoots out pressurized water at high speed. You can use heated water or cold water, depending on the type of cleaning needed for the job.
On the other hand, gas-powered washers use fuel engines to drive a pump. This pump shoots out pressurized water through a nozzle or spray gun to clean surfaces. Gas-powered washers can also use both hot and cold water.
As we mentioned earlier in this guide, pounds per square inch (PSI) and gallons per minute (GPM) matter in a power wash. These are two of the most important metrics that determine a pressure washer’s effectiveness.
PSI indicates the pressure with which water is sprayed on the fence surface. You can think of it as the brute force of the water stream. The higher the PSI, the better it can remove stubborn and sticky dirt and stains.
GPM refers to the rate of flow of water that the pressure washer can deliver in a minute. Like PSI, a high GPM can make the area clean and free from gunk. The higher the GPM, the more power a pressure washer has.
The average fence-cleaning PSI is around 500–1,300 for wood, 2,000 for vinyl, 1,500 for composite, 1,800–2,300 for metal, and 2,000–3,000 for glass.
It is important to use safety equipment for your DIY fence washing project. These include the basics like non-slip boots, gloves, and goggles. You should also wear a helmet if there’s a risk of hard objects falling. Moreover, try to use ear protection, especially if you are using a gas-powered pressure washer.
Different types of cleaning agents can be used with a pressure washer. The common options include bleach (diluted), fence cleaner, detergent, vinegar, and mold removers. For fence cleaners, you can get varieties that are specific to different materials. You should also try to get eco-friendly products, as these tend to be better for plants and pets.
How to Hire a Professional Pressure Washer
If you decide to hire a professional pressure washer, online platforms are a great option. You can make a shortlist of the washers you like and contact them for your fence cleaning task. Before hiring someone, however, make sure to ask questions. This can help you get a better idea about their skills, qualifications, and experience. You should also compare quotes from different contractors and check their credentials. Checking these things will help you find the contractor who is the best fit for your project.
House Fly is an excellent source of online pressure washers for your fence. We make the process of hiring your preferred cleaner hassle-free. With our app, you can easily find your preferred cleaner in your area. Simply connect with them, ask questions, check real-time prices and availability, and confirm your booking. No phone calls or long wait times—enjoy a seamless experience in finding reliable and reputable cleaners for your project!
Make sure to ask your contractor some important questions before confirming a booking. For instance, you should ask professional pressure washers if they are licensed and insured. This will give you an idea about how qualified and reliable they are. Reputable contractors provide licensed and insured services.
You should also ask them for an upfront cost for the cleaning task. This will ensure a solid agreement between both parties and help avoid disputes in the future.
You can also enquire about the cleaning agents they use. If you have eco-friendly or other product preferences, discuss it with them. Many contractors will happily oblige with your requirements.
It is a good practice to compare quotes from different contractors. This will give you a good idea about the market rate. It will also protect you from overpaying. Ask for price estimates, choose the one that appeals to you the most, and book the contractor.
This is another vital part of a contractor hiring process. You should check their credentials before confirming an agreement. Verify their licenses and find out if they are qualified to pressure wash your fence. You can also read reviews by previous customers. This will help you get an idea about the contractor’s work. If someone has worked on a similar project, it can also help you determine how long the job will take for your fence.
Pressure Washing Tips for Best Results
You can take some steps to ensure the best results for the pressure wash. For instance, clear the area surrounding the fence before the wash starts. Remove debris, covering plants, and anything else that might cause an obstruction. This will create favorable site conditions to clean your fence effectively.
When the wash starts, make sure to follow the recommended settings. For example, if you are washing a softwood fence, remember that low pressure is needed to remove dirt and stains. Using a high PSI can cause damage to the fence.
Once the wash is complete, focus on aftercare techniques. These can include applying sealants and inspecting the fence for damage or missed spots that need to be washed again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Make sure to avoid making any errors that might undo the pressure wash. Some common errors include:
When pressure washing a fence, using the wrong PSI level can cause more harm than good. It can cause damage to the fence and burden you with unexpected repair costs. Check your fence material and use the recommended PSI setting to ensure the best results.
Before starting the pressure wash, make sure to complete all the pre-wash preparations. Clear the wash site of any loose debris and obstacles. Incomplete preparation can lead to an improper wash and damage to your fence and surrounding area.
Check if the cleaning agent is suitable for your fence material. For instance, if you use strong bleach instead of diluted, it may damage your fence, especially if it is a wooden one. These damages can include discoloration, warping, and even potential structural weakening over time.
There can be no compromise on safety. That is why you should make sure to follow safety precautions carefully when pressure washing your fence. Wear the necessary safety equipment and stay away from electric lines or outlets to avoid electrical hazards.
Cost Management and Budgeting Tips
It wouldn’t be a complete guide on pressure washing costs without budgeting tips, would it? That is why we have also included this section to discuss cost management tips. For best cost-effectiveness, you can:
Many pressure washing professionals offer bundle services. For instance, they might offer combo packages to pressure wash your fence and deck or driveway. These bundles can offer discounts and clean additional parts of your house.
Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts. Many professional cleaners offer discounts in spring and fall. You can make use of these opportunities and get your fence pressure washed for lower costs.
Try to ensure regular maintenance after pressure washing your fence. For example, you can apply sealants, a coat of paint, or rinse with water to maintain your fence. This will keep it in good condition and reduce future pressure washing costs.
Custom Calculators and Tools
You can use fence power washing calculators to estimate costs. There are many such interactive calculators available online. You can simply search on Google and choose from one of the top results. Just put in your fence size, material, and location to get an estimate of how much pressure washing can cost. You can also use budget planners to stay on top of your expenses.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, pressure washing your fence can rejuvenate its appearance and extend its lifespan. Fences can be made of different materials. Make sure to use the pressure settings that are recommended for your particular fence. You can choose to pressure wash your fence yourself or hire a professional. While a DIY project can be more affordable, professional work provides much better value over the long term. Contractors can charge you either a fixed fee or a price based on your fence’s square footage. Ask them questions about their qualifications and past work. This can help you choose the cleaner who best fits your requirements. Keep additional cost factors in mind, follow the budgeting and preparation tips we outlined above, and avoid common mistakes. These can ensure the best results for your fence pressure wash.
Looking for the best pressure wash professionals in your area? Download the House Fly app! We make the process of hiring contractors simple. Search for your contractor, check their reviews, and compare prices and availability in real time. Once you find the perfect match for your task, confirm your booking and enjoy contracting services like never before!
Visit our website or call us for more information.