Pressure Washing Profits – How to Make More Money with Every Spray

Pressure washing can be a gold mine if you treat it like a business, not just a service. Most cleaners start with a single washer and a few gigs, but the real money lies in the details – pricing, equipment choices, and getting the right jobs. Below are practical steps you can apply today to lift your earnings.

Set the Right Prices

Start by calculating your true costs. Add up the hour you spend on site, fuel, water, wear on the pump, and any chemicals you use. Then decide on a markup that gives you a healthy profit – 20‑30% is a common range for UK cleaners. When you quote a job, break it down for the customer: "2 hours at £45 each, plus materials". Clear numbers make it harder for them to haggle.

Next, tier your pricing by surface type. A driveway takes less time than a wooden deck, so charge different rates per square metre. Offer a discount for repeat customers or a bundled package (e.g., driveway + patio) to encourage larger jobs while still keeping your margin.

Choose Smart Equipment

Don’t chase the most expensive washer. Look for a unit that balances pressure (around 2,500‑3,000 psi for residential work) with fuel efficiency. A good mid‑range model can pay for itself after 30‑40 jobs if you price correctly. Keep a maintenance log and change the oil every 100 hours – it prevents costly breakdowns.

Invest in a few interchangeable nozzles instead of buying multiple machines. A 0° tip cleans stubborn oil spots quickly; a 25° tip is safer for painted surfaces. The right nozzle reduces time on each job, which directly raises profit.

Another tip: use biodegradable detergents. They cost a bit more than plain water, but many customers are willing to pay extra for an eco‑friendly clean. List this as a premium add‑on and you’ll see a boost in average ticket size.

Marketing matters too. A simple flyer that shows before‑and‑after photos of a driveway can attract local homeowners. Post those photos on neighbourhood Facebook groups and mention your fast turnaround. Word of mouth spreads faster when people see real results.

Finally, schedule wisely. Plan jobs back‑to‑back in the same area to cut travel time and fuel. If you can finish three driveways in one afternoon, you’ll earn more than scattered single jobs across the city.

Track every job in a spreadsheet: date, client, square metres, time spent, cost, and revenue. Review the numbers each month to spot which jobs are most profitable and which need price adjustments.

By tightening up pricing, picking the right equipment, and keeping a tight schedule, you’ll turn a simple pressure wash into a steady income stream. Start with one change today – whether it’s a new price sheet or a maintenance check – and watch your profits climb.