Pressure washing your deck is one of the best ways to keep it looking fresh and prevent long-term damage. But how much does it cost to pressure wash a deck?
On average, homeowners spend around $149, with prices ranging from $92 to $702 per project, depending on the size of the deck, the material, and how much cleaning is needed. If you’re paying per square foot, expect to spend $0.30 to $0.40.
Location also plays a role, and if your deck is covered in years of built-up dirt, you might need special treatments, which can add to the price.
Cost by Location
The cost of pressure washing a deck can vary significantly by location due to labor rates and the cost of living. Below is a breakdown of average costs for a 500 sq. ft. deck in different cities:
| Location | Cost per 500 Square Feet | Price per Sq. Ft. |
| Northeast U.S. | ||
| New York, NY | $285 – $349 | $0.57 – $0.70 |
| Pawtucket, RI | $226 – $277 | $0.45 – $0.55 |
| Southeast U.S. | ||
| Atlanta, GA | $204 – $250 | $0.41 – $0.50 |
| Orlando, FL | $202 – $249 | $0.40 – $0.50 |
| Dothan, AL | $196 – $241 | $0.39 – $0.48 |
| Midwest U.S. | ||
| Chicago, IL | $255 – $313 | $0.51 – $0.63 |
| South Bend, IN | $235 – $288 | $0.47 – $0.58 |
| Northwest U.S. | ||
| Seattle, WA | $263 – $322 | $0.53 – $0.64 |
| Corvallis, OR | $218 – $268 | $0.44 – $0.54 |
| Southwest U.S. | ||
| San Diego, CA | $241 – $295 | $0.48 – $0.59 |
| Roswell, NM | $204 – $250 | $0.41 – $0.50 |
| Houston, TX | $201 – $247 | $0.40 – $0.49 |
How Location Affects Cost
Location plays a key role in pricing due to differences in labor costs, climate conditions, and local demand. Urban areas with a higher cost of living, such as New York or Seattle, tend to have higher prices for pressure washing services.
Conversely, smaller towns or regions with lower labor costs may offer more affordable rates. Areas with higher humidity may also require more frequent cleanings, increasing demand and potentially raising service prices.
Professional Cost vs. DIY Cost
Professional Pressure Washing Costs
The cost of hiring a professional pressure washer depends on the size of the deck and any additional services required. Here is an estimate:
| Deck Size (sq. ft.) | Average Cost |
| 300 | $90 – $120 |
| 500 | $150 – $200 |
| 750 | $219 – $300 |
| 1,000 | $300 – $400 |
| 1,500 | $450 – $600 |
Average hourly rate: $50 to $125
Some professionals charge an hourly rate, while others give a flat quote for the entire job. A fixed price typically considers factors like the size of your deck, how long the cleaning will take, and the level of grime or mold that needs to be removed. If your deck hasn’t been cleaned in years and has stubborn stains, expect the cost to be on the higher end.
DIY Pressure Washing Costs
If you choose to pressure wash your deck yourself, you will need to factor in equipment and supply costs. Below is an estimate:
| Item | Cost Range |
| Detergent | Up to $20 |
| Pressure Washer Rental | $43 – $120 per day |
| Pressure Washer Purchase | $100 to $1,250 |
DIY vs. Professional: Which Is Right for You?
If your deck is looking worn out and covered in grime, you might be wondering — should you pressure wash it yourself or hire a pro? The answer depends on your budget, experience, and how much time you’re willing to invest. Let’s break it down.
- DIY Considerations:
- Cost savings (if you already own a pressure washer): If you have the right equipment and some experience using it, handling the job yourself can save you money.
- Equipment expenses: if you don’t own a pressure washer, you’ll need to rent or buy one, which can add to the overall cost. You may also need cleaning solutions, protective gear, and specialized attachments for the best results.
- Risk of damage: Using too much pressure or the wrong nozzle can strip away protective coatings, gouge wooden surfaces, or even force water into the wood, leading to long-term damage like rot or mold growth.
- Time and Effort: Pressure washing a deck requires careful prep work, proper technique, and post-cleaning maintenance like sealing or staining if needed.
- Advantages of Hiring a Pro:
- Safe and effective cleaning: Professionals know how to adjust pressure levels, choose the right detergents, and work efficiently to remove grime, mold, and stains without harming your deck.
- Avoid costly DIY mistakes: Common DIY errors include using excessive pressure, the wrong nozzle, or skipping important prep steps, any of which can damage your deck and lead to expensive repairs.
- Saves time and hassle: Instead of spending hours figuring out the process and doing the labor yourself, a pro can get the job done quickly and correctly.
Cost by Deck Material
The type of material your deck is made from plays a big role in the cost of pressure washing. Some materials require a gentler approach, special cleaning solutions, or extra time to clean properly — all of which can impact pricing.
| Material | Cost Range |
| Metal | $138 – $180 |
| Wood | $160 – $200 |
| Composite | $175 – $203 |
| Aluminum | $150 – $180 |
Why Material Affects Cost
Metal and Aluminum Decks ($138 – $180)
Metal and aluminum decks are among the easiest and cheapest to clean. They can handle higher pressure, so the job is usually quicker. However, if grease, oxidation, or stubborn grime is present, professionals may need to use specialized cleaning agents, which can slightly increase the price.
Wood Decks ($160 – $200)
Wood requires a delicate touch. Too much pressure can cause splintering, warping, or stripping of sealants. To prevent damage, pros use lower pressure and wood-safe cleaners. The extra care and specialized products make wood deck cleaning a bit more expensive.
Composite Decks ($175 – $203)
Composite decking is lower-maintenance than wood, but it still requires proper cleaning. While it can handle moderate pressure, too much force can leave scratches or dull the finish. Many pros use a combination of gentle pressure washing and hand-scrubbing, which adds to labor costs.
Additional Cost Factors
Deck Condition
The dirtier the deck, the more time and effort required to clean it properly.
- Light dirt and dust – A standard wash is usually enough, keeping costs low.
- Mold, mildew, or grease stains – Requires special cleaning solutions and extra labor, increasing costs.
- Severe buildup from years of neglect – May need multiple treatments and scrubbing, making it the most expensive to clean.
Tip: Regular maintenance washes can prevent deep grime buildup and help keep cleaning costs down.
Deck Shape and Accessibility
The design of your deck can affect pricing.
- Simple, single-level decks are the easiest and most affordable to clean.
- Wrap-around or multi-level decks take longer and require more effort, increasing the cost.
- Elevated decks may need ladders or scaffolding, adding to labor expenses.
If your deck has hard-to-reach areas or complex features, expect a higher price due to the additional time and equipment needed.
Wastewater Permit
In some states, you may need an environmental wastewater permit before pressure washing a deck.
- Permits can cost up to $500, depending on local regulations.
- Some municipalities have strict wastewater disposal rules to prevent contamination.
- Most professional pressure washers should already have the required permits, but it’s best to confirm before hiring.
Check with your local government to see if this applies to your area. If a permit is required, a reputable contractor should handle the paperwork.
Staining and Sealing After Washing
Pressure washing removes dirt, but it can also strip away old sealant. To keep your deck in shape and extend its lifespan, you might consider additional treatments:
| Service | Cost Range |
| Staining | $1,400 (pressure washing included) |
| Sealing | $575 – $2000 |
| Deck Repairs | $1167 – $3000 |
| Power Sanding | $0.50 – $2.50 per square foot |
See Related: How Much Does it Cost to Stain a Deck?
FAQ
For most homeowners, once a year is enough to pressure wash their deck.
However, some factors might mean you need to clean it more often:
• If you live in a humid or rainy area, mold and algae can build up quickly, so you may need a wash every 6 to 8 months.
• If your home is surrounded by trees, falling leaves, sap, and pollen can stain your deck, requiring more frequent cleaning.
• If your deck is the go-to spot for BBQs and gatherings, regular spills might mean an extra cleaning mid-year.
The ideal time to pressure wash is spring or fall, but the best choice depends on how you use your deck.
• Spring cleaning: Removes winter grime and mildew so your deck is fresh and ready for summer gatherings.
• Fall cleaning: Clears away grease, dirt, and stains from summer fun, so they don’t sit and cause damage over the winter.
Tip: Avoid pressure washing in extreme heat, as drying too fast can leave streaks. Avoid washing in freezing temperatures, too, s water can seep into cracks and expand.
If your deck hasn’t been washed in years, the best time is now — before dirt buildup turns into a bigger problem.
Professional pressure washing is an investment, but here’s how you can keep costs down while keeping your deck in top shape:
• Stay on top of maintenance: A quick hose-down and light scrub every month prevents dirt buildup, reducing the need for deep cleaning.
• Book during the off-season: Spring and fall tend to have lower rates since summer is peak season for pressure washing.
• Bundle services: If you also need your driveway, patio, or fence cleaned, many pros offer discounts when you add multiple services.
• Buy a quality pressure washer: If you’re thinking about DIY, invest in a durable, high-quality model on sale rather than the cheapest option, as it’ll last longer and clean more effectively.
See Related: How Much Does Pressure Washing Cost?
Keep Your Deck Clean Without Overspending
Costs of pressure washing a deck vary based on location, deck size, and material, with professional services offering convenience and expertise. DIY can save money, but mistakes can be costly. If you want to cut costs, regular maintenance, off-season deals, and bundling services help. Whether you hire a pro or do it yourself, keeping your deck clean through pressure washing will protect both your home and your wallet.
Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled handymen and handywomen in seconds and leave the rest to us.
What to Read Next:
Main Image Credit: bubutu / Adobe Stock Free / License
Related Posts:
