How much does pressure washing cost?
Starting at £31 per hour on average
Updated on 19 August 2026
Table of contents
- Get the cost for pressure washing services near you
- Pressure washing cost estimates supplemented with real Taskrabbit data
- What affects pressure washing costs?
- How long does pressure washing take?
- Common pressure washing jobs and their typical costs
- Frequently asked questions about pressure washing services
Get the cost for pressure washing services near you
Browse different pressure washing rates in your area and select the one that fits your budget and needs.
Book a pressure washingPressure washing cost estimates supplemented with real Taskrabbit data
Pressure washing is one of the quickest and most effective ways to refresh your home's exterior. Whether you're cleaning a driveway, patio, decking, or exterior walls, a pressure washing service can remove built-up dirt, moss, algae, and grime, helping improve your property's appearance and protect outdoor surfaces.
This guide covers average pressure washing costs in the UK, the key factors that influence the overall cost, and tips to save so you can budget with confidence.
Based on market research and Taskrabbit platform insights, you can generally expect to pay £31 per hour for pressure washing services.
Average cost for pressure washing services in major UK cities
Pressure washing prices can vary depending on where you live. Local labour rates, demand, and travel distances can all influence the overall cost of hiring a pro.
The table below shows average hourly rates for gardening, which is the category pressure washing falls under on the Taskrabbit platform. You can expect pressure washing rates to align with these figures.
What affects pressure washing costs?
The cost of pressure washing depends on more than just the size of the area being cleaned. The type of surface, its condition, accessibility, and the cleaning method used can all influence the final price.
Property size
Larger areas naturally take longer to clean and require more water, labour, and equipment. While smaller jobs such as patios or garden paths are often quoted at a fixed price, larger projects like driveways or full house exteriors may be priced based on the total area being cleaned. When this type of pricing method is used, expect to pay between £3.00 and £8.00 per square metre.
Property height and accessibility
Ground-level surfaces are generally quicker and easier to clean than areas that require specialist access equipment. Multi-storey homes, difficult-to-reach walls, and roofs often require extension lances, scaffolding, or other safety equipment, which can increase labour costs.
Limited access around the property may also extend the time needed to complete the job.
Surface type
Different materials require different cleaning techniques, which can affect both labour time and the overall cost.
Common surfaces include:
Concrete and tarmac: Durable surfaces that are generally straightforward to pressure wash.
Block paving: Often requires re-sanding after cleaning, which may be offered as an additional service.
Natural stone: May require lower pressure and more careful cleaning to avoid damaging the surface.
Timber and composite decking: Typically cleaned using lower pressure to protect the material and prevent splintering or damage.
Brick and rendered walls: Some surfaces can be pressure washed, while others are better suited to soft washing to prevent damage.
Roof tiles: Most roofs are cleaned using soft washing rather than high-pressure cleaning to safely remove moss, algae, and lichen.
Level of dirt and staining
Surfaces that are cleaned regularly are generally quicker and less expensive to restore than those that have been neglected for several years.
Oil stains, rust marks, chewing gum, moss, algae, and lichen often require specialist cleaning products or pre-treatment before pressure washing can begin, increasing both labour time and material costs.
Water source and usage
Most professionals connect to an outdoor hose bib at your property. If outdoor water access is limited or unavailable, the professional may need to bring a water tank, which adds to the cost. Water usage for a typical residential job will show up on your utility bill, though the impact is generally modest.
Waste water and environmental compliance
In the UK, businesses are required to manage waste water responsibly, particularly when cleaning commercial properties or working in areas where runoff could enter drains or watercourses. For residential jobs, this is less commonly a direct cost to you, but some operators include it in their pricing. If you're hiring for a commercial property or a job near a watercourse, it's worth asking how waste water is managed.
Cleaning method
Not every surface can be cleaned using high-pressure water alone.
Standard pressure washing is suitable for many hard exterior surfaces, including concrete, paving, and patios. More delicate materials, such as roof tiles, rendered walls, and some types of wood, are typically cleaned using a soft washing method that combines lower water pressure with specialist cleaning solutions.
The cleaning method required for your project can have a noticeable impact on the overall price.
Travel and call-out fees
Some professionals charge a minimum call-out fee or include travel costs in their quote, particularly for smaller jobs or properties located in rural areas. It's worth confirming whether travel charges are included before booking.
Seasonal demand
Pressure washing is most popular during spring and early summer, when many homeowners are preparing outdoor spaces for warmer weather. During these busier periods, prices may be slightly higher and availability more limited.
If your project isn't time-sensitive, booking outside peak season may give you more flexibility and, in some cases, lower prices.
How long does pressure washing take?
The time it takes to complete a pressure washing project depends on the size of the area, the type of surface, and how much cleaning is required. Surfaces with heavy moss, algae, or staining often need additional preparation, while larger properties naturally take longer to complete.
Typical project timelines include:
Single driveway: Around 1–2 hours
Patio: Typically 2–3 hours, depending on its size and condition
Garden path: Usually 1–2 hours
Decking: Around 2–4 hours, depending on the size of the deck and the cleaning method used
House exterior: Typically 1–2 days, depending on the property's size and accessibility
Roof cleaning: Usually 1–2 days, particularly when soft washing is required to safely remove moss and algae
Keep in mind that heavily soiled surfaces, additional treatments, and poor weather can all extend the overall timeline. Your pressure washing professional should be able to provide a more accurate estimate after assessing the project.
Common pressure washing jobs and their typical costs
The table below offers a general sense of what you can expect to pay for specific pressure washing jobs. Actual costs will vary based on the factors discussed above.
| Location | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Patio | £60–£150 |
| Decking | £100–£250 |
| Garden path | £30–£80 |
| Fence panels | £50–£150 |
| Double driveway | £120–£250 |
| Single driveway | £80–£150 |
| Roof (soft washing) | £300–£700 |
| Detached house exterior | £300–£800 |
| Semi-detached house exterior | £200–£500 |
| Gutters, fascias, and soffits | £50–£150 |
DIY vs. hiring pressure washing help
Pressure washing can be a satisfying DIY project for smaller jobs, but it isn't always the safest or most effective option. The right choice depends on the type of surface, the size of the project, and the equipment required.
When to DIY
Pressure washing your own property may be a good option if:
You're cleaning a small patio, driveway, or garden path.
The surface is durable, such as concrete or paving.
You already own or can rent a suitable pressure washer.
The area is easy to access and can be cleaned safely from ground level.
You're confident using the correct pressure settings to avoid damaging the surface.
Keep in mind that using excessive pressure can damage brickwork, timber, render, and paving, so it's important to choose the correct nozzle and pressure setting for the material you're cleaning.
When to hire help
Hiring a pro for pressure washing is often the better choice if:
You're cleaning a large driveway, house exterior, or commercial property.
The project involves roofs, rendered walls, or other delicate surfaces that require soft washing.
You're dealing with stubborn moss, algae, oil stains, or other heavy contamination.
The work involves upper floors or difficult-to-access areas.
You want a professional finish without the risk of damaging your property.
Pressure washing providers and companies also have access to commercial-grade equipment that can complete larger projects more quickly than most domestic machines.
How to save money on pressure washing
There are several ways to reduce the cost of pressure washing without compromising on quality.
You may be able to save money by:
Booking multiple areas at the same time: Having your driveway, patio, and garden paths cleaned during the same visit is often more cost-effective than arranging separate appointments.
Clearing the area before the cleaner arrives: Moving garden furniture, planters, bins, and other obstacles can reduce labour time and help keep costs down.
Booking outside peak season: Spring and early summer are the busiest times for pressure washing. If your schedule is flexible, booking later in the year may result in better availability and more competitive pricing.
Comparing several quotes: Getting estimates from multiple professionals makes it easier to compare prices and understand what's included in each service.
Combining additional services: If your block paving needs re-sanding or you'd like a patio or driveway sealed after cleaning, booking these services at the same time may be more cost-effective than arranging them separately.
While it's tempting to choose the lowest quote, it's important to compare what's included. A slightly higher price that covers preparation, specialist treatments, and cleanup may offer better value than a cheaper quote with additional charges later.
Frequently asked questions about pressure washing services
For most homes, pressure washing your driveway or patio once a year is enough to keep it looking clean and prevent moss, algae, and grime from building up. Properties with heavy tree cover or those in damp, shaded areas may benefit from more frequent cleaning.
Most roofs should not be cleaned using high-pressure washing, as it can damage tiles and reduce their lifespan. Instead, professional roof cleaning is typically carried out using a soft washing method that safely removes moss, algae, and lichen without causing unnecessary damage.
If you're renting your home, it's a good idea to check your tenancy agreement before arranging exterior cleaning. While routine maintenance is often permitted, some landlords may want to approve work carried out on the property's exterior.
