How much does power washing cost in Jacksonville? If you’re planning to clean your home’s exterior, driveway, or deck, you’ll typically pay between $23.24 and $38.73 per hour for professional power washing services in our area. The average rate sits around $30.98 per hour, though your final bill depends on several key factors I’ll break down for you.
As someone who’s been power washing homes across Jacksonville for over a decade, I’ve seen costs vary dramatically based on project scope, surface type, and timing. Let me walk you through exactly what you can expect to pay and how to get the best value for your investment.
Understanding Power Washing Cost Factors
Your power washing bill isn’t just about time on the job. Several factors influence what you’ll pay, and understanding these helps you budget accurately and compare quotes fairly.
Surface area is the biggest cost driver. A typical single-story home in Riverside might take 3-4 hours to wash completely, while a two-story house in Ponte Vedra Beach could require 6-8 hours. At our average rate of $30.98 per hour, you’re looking at $93-$248 for most residential projects.
Surface type also matters significantly. Your concrete driveway requires different pressure settings and techniques than your vinyl siding. Stone surfaces in historic neighborhoods like San Marco need gentler approaches, which can extend job time.
Here’s what different surfaces typically cost per square foot:
| Surface Type | Cost Per Sq Ft | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding | $0.15 - $0.30 | Most common, fastest cleaning |
| Concrete Driveway | $0.20 - $0.40 | May need degreasing |
| Wood Deck | $0.25 - $0.50 | Requires lower pressure |
| Brick/Stone | $0.30 - $0.60 | Time-intensive, delicate work |
Accessibility affects pricing too. If your home has landscaping blocking access or requires ladder work for second-story areas, expect to pay toward the higher end of the range.
Driveway Power Washing Cost Breakdown
Driveways are our most requested service, and for good reason. Jacksonville’s humidity and frequent afternoon storms create perfect conditions for mold, mildew, and algae growth on concrete surfaces.
A standard two-car driveway (about 600 square feet) typically costs $120-$240 to power wash. However, I’ve found that most driveways in older neighborhoods like Springfield or Riverside need additional treatments for oil stains or deep-set grime, which can add $50-$100 to your bill.
Here’s what impacts driveway cleaning costs:
Stain severity: Light surface dirt washes away quickly. Oil stains, rust marks, or years of buildup require pre-treatment and multiple passes. I always inspect stains before quoting because they can double the job time.
Driveway condition: Newer concrete cleans faster than older, porous surfaces. If your driveway hasn’t been sealed recently, it absorbs more dirt and takes longer to clean properly.
Size and layout: Curved driveways or those with decorative elements take more time than simple rectangular layouts. Count on paying extra for intricate stonework or pavers.
What to Expect During Service
Professional power washing involves more than just spraying water at high pressure. Here’s what happens during a typical service call at your Jacksonville home.
Pre-treatment comes first. I inspect your property, identify problem areas, and apply appropriate cleaning solutions. For mold and mildew common in our humid climate, this step is crucial. Pre-treatment usually takes 15-30 minutes but can save an hour of actual washing time.
Protection setup follows. We cover plants, outdoor furniture, and electrical fixtures. This attention to detail separates professional services from amateur attempts and prevents costly damage to your landscaping.
The washing process itself varies by surface. Vinyl siding gets washed from bottom to top to prevent streaking. Concrete gets cleaned in systematic passes to ensure even results. Wood surfaces require careful pressure control to avoid damage.
Final inspection and cleanup wraps up the job. We walk through the completed work with you, address any concerns, and ensure your property is left clean and protected.
Most residential jobs take 2-6 hours from start to finish. Weather can extend this timeline – our afternoon thunderstorms sometimes require scheduling flexibility.
How to Get and Compare Multiple Quotes
Getting accurate quotes helps you budget properly and find the right contractor for your needs. Here’s how to approach the quoting process effectively.
Request detailed written estimates from at least three local contractors. Verbal estimates often lead to surprises, and written quotes protect both you and the contractor. Make sure each quote includes the same scope of work for fair comparison.
Ask for itemized pricing when possible. Some contractors charge by square footage, others by time, and some use flat project rates. Understanding their pricing structure helps you evaluate value, especially if your project scope changes.
Schedule quotes during good weather so contractors can thoroughly assess your property. I’ve seen quotes change significantly after contractors discover issues that weren’t visible during rainy weather inspections.
Compare more than just price. The lowest bid isn’t always the best value. Consider insurance coverage, equipment quality, and references. A contractor using consumer-grade equipment might take twice as long as one with commercial-grade machines.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
The right questions help you identify experienced, reliable contractors and avoid costly mistakes or disappointments.
“Are you licensed and insured?” This isn’t optional in Florida. Legitimate contractors carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation if they have employees. Ask to see current certificates – many homeowners in Mandarin and other upscale neighborhoods have learned this lesson the hard way.
“What cleaning solutions do you use?” Some contractors rely solely on high pressure, which can damage surfaces. Others use harsh chemicals that harm plants or violate environmental regulations. Look for contractors who use appropriate, eco-friendly cleaning solutions when possible.
“How do you handle different surfaces?” Experienced contractors adjust pressure settings, nozzle types, and techniques based on what they’re cleaning. If someone gives the same answer for vinyl siding and painted wood, they might not have the expertise you need.
“What’s included in your price?” Clarify whether the quote includes pre-treatment, post-treatment sealing, cleanup, and protection of landscaping and outdoor items. Hidden exclusions can significantly impact your final bill.
“Do you guarantee your work?” Reputable contractors stand behind their services. Most offer to return within a reasonable timeframe if you’re not satisfied with the results.
Best Timing and Seasonal Considerations
Jacksonville’s subtropical climate affects both power washing effectiveness and pricing throughout the year. Timing your project right can save money and deliver better results.
Spring (March-May) is peak season for exterior cleaning. Homeowners want to wash away winter grime before summer entertaining season. Expect higher demand and potentially higher prices, but you’ll also find the best contractor availability for scheduling flexibility.
Summer (June-August) brings afternoon thunderstorms that can complicate scheduling. However, our warm weather and high humidity create ideal conditions for mold and mildew treatment solutions to work effectively. Many contractors offer slightly lower rates to fill cancellation slots caused by weather.
Fall (September-November) offers excellent value. Demand drops as homeowners focus on holiday preparations, but weather remains suitable for most exterior work. I often recommend fall cleaning to prepare homes for winter and remove summer’s accumulated growth.
Winter (December-February) presents the best pricing opportunities. While our mild winters allow year-round exterior work, demand drops significantly. Patient homeowners can save 10-20% on services during these months.
Weather considerations: Avoid scheduling during Jacksonville’s rainy season peak (June-September) unless you’re flexible with timing. Most contractors will reschedule for active weather, but persistent drizzle can delay projects for days.
Hidden Costs and Surprise Fees to Watch For
Understanding potential additional charges helps you budget accurately and avoid unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives.
Travel fees sometimes apply for properties outside contractors’ primary service areas. If you’re in Ponte Vedra Beach or other areas outside central Jacksonville, ask about travel charges upfront. These typically range from $25-$75.
Minimum service charges catch some homeowners off guard. Many contractors have minimum billing requirements ($100-$150) that make sense for whole-house projects but inflate costs for small jobs like single-room deck cleaning.
Additional treatment costs for stubborn stains, heavy mold growth, or specialized surfaces often aren’t included in basic quotes. Pre-treating oil stains on driveways or dealing with severe mold growth can add 25-50% to your bill.
Equipment setup fees occasionally apply for complex jobs requiring special access equipment or extensive prep work. Most contractors include basic setup in their hourly rates, but unusual circumstances might trigger additional charges.
Damage repair costs highlight the importance of hiring insured professionals. While rare with experienced contractors, accidents happen. Uninsured contractors might leave you responsible for replacing damaged siding, broken windows, or harmed landscaping.
Here’s a breakdown of common additional costs:
| Additional Service | Typical Cost | When Applied |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Stain Treatment | $25 - $75 | Driveways with automotive stains |
| Mold/Mildew Pre-treatment | $0.05 - $0.15/sq ft | Heavy growth conditions |
| Second Story Access | $50 - $100 | Homes requiring ladder/equipment setup |
| Plant Protection | $25 - $50 | Extensive landscaping near work areas |
Why you pay more than contractor wages: The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows power washing workers earn $15.49 per hour on average, but you pay $23.24-$38.73 per hour for services. This difference covers legitimate business costs including commercial insurance, professional equipment, vehicle expenses, licensing, and administrative overhead. Understanding this helps you appreciate the value professional contractors provide beyond just labor.
Move-In Cleaning Service Cost Integration
Many Jacksonville homeowners combine power washing with comprehensive move-in cleaning services when purchasing homes. This makes particular sense in our humid climate where exteriors can deteriorate quickly between occupants.
Bundling exterior power washing with move-in cleaning often provides better value than hiring separate contractors. Many full-service companies offer package deals that can save 15-20% compared to individual service pricing.
Return on Investment and Property Value
Professional power washing delivers measurable returns that justify the investment for most Jacksonville homeowners. Clean exteriors enhance curb appeal, prevent costly damage, and extend surface life.
Immediate benefits include removing harmful growth that can permanently stain or damage surfaces. Our humid climate promotes rapid mold, mildew, and algae growth that becomes increasingly difficult to remove over time.
Long-term value comes from preventing premature replacement of siding, decking, and other exterior surfaces. Regular cleaning extends surface life by 25-40% in many cases, saving thousands in eventual replacement costs.
Property value impact varies by neighborhood, but clean, well-maintained exteriors consistently appraise higher than neglected properties. Real estate agents in areas like Avondale and Ortega regularly recommend power washing before listing homes.
For comprehensive property maintenance, consider combining power washing with other services like basement waterproofing or tire shop services to address all your home’s needs efficiently.
Comparing Jacksonville to Other Florida Markets
Jacksonville’s power washing costs align closely with other major Florida cities, though some variation exists based on local economic factors and competition levels.
Miami power washing costs typically run 10-15% higher due to increased labor costs and market demand. Tampa power washing costs closely match Jacksonville pricing, making our market competitively positioned for homeowners.
The key advantage in Jacksonville is contractor availability and scheduling flexibility compared to more densely populated markets where booking preferred contractors often requires longer wait times.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does power washing cost in Jacksonville?
Professional power washing in Jacksonville costs $23.24 to $38.73 per hour, with an average rate of $30.98 per hour. Most residential projects range from $150-$400 depending on home size and surfaces cleaned. A typical single-story house costs $200-$300 to power wash completely, while driveways run $120-$240. These prices reflect our local market rates and include standard equipment, labor, and basic cleaning solutions. Additional treatments for stubborn stains or specialized surfaces may increase costs.
What factors affect power washing prices?
Several key factors influence your power washing costs in Jacksonville. Surface type matters most – vinyl siding cleans faster and costs less than delicate stone or wood surfaces. Project size directly impacts total cost, with larger homes requiring more time and materials. Surface condition affects pricing significantly; heavily stained or mold-covered areas need pre-treatment and additional passes. Accessibility also influences costs – second-story work or areas blocked by landscaping require extra time and equipment setup. Finally, stain severity can double cleaning time for surfaces with oil, rust, or deep-set grime requiring specialized treatment.
When is the best time to power wash in Jacksonville?
Fall offers the best combination of weather, pricing, and results for power washing in Jacksonville. September through November provides mild temperatures, reduced humidity, and lower contractor demand, often resulting in 10-20% cost savings. Spring is ideal for results but expect peak pricing and scheduling challenges. Summer’s afternoon storms complicate scheduling but create perfect conditions for mold and mildew treatments to work effectively. Winter offers the lowest prices due to reduced demand, and our mild climate allows year-round exterior cleaning without weather-related complications.
Should I power wash my own home or hire professionals?
While DIY power washing might seem cost-effective, hiring professionals usually provides better value for Jacksonville homeowners. Professional equipment cleans more effectively and efficiently than rental units, often completing jobs in half the time. Experienced contractors understand proper pressure settings for different surfaces – too much pressure can permanently damage siding, decks, or concrete. Professionals also carry insurance protecting you from costly mistakes and property damage. Factor in equipment rental costs, cleaning solutions, and your time value, and professional services often cost only marginally more while delivering superior, guaranteed results with full liability protection.
Pricing data sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS survey. Consumer prices calculated using industry-standard multipliers. See our methodology for details.