How To Start a Power Washing Business: Step-By-Step Guide

Working in the power washing business lets you blast away dirt and grime—while also cleaning up in profits.
Power washing is a cleaning method that uses high-pressure water spray to thoroughly clean surfaces and objects. It’s also known as pressure washing. And because most people don’t own these types of washers, they need to hire companies with the heavy-duty equipment to get the job done.
Here’s how to start a power washing business. Learn how to research your market, choose equipment, and get your first customers.

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Starting a Power Washing Company: Is It a Good Idea?

If you’re looking for a profitable business with low startup costs and great flexibility, starting a power washing company is an excellent choice. Here are a few reasons why:

Low Startup Costs

You don’t need to invest in expensive equipment or rent an office space to get started. All you need is a good pressure washer, some basic supplies, and a reliable vehicle. This makes starting a power washing company a realistic option for many entrepreneurs.

High Profit Potential

One of the biggest benefits of starting a power washing company is the potential for high profits. Many homeowners and businesses need to keep their properties clean, so there’s a big market. And with low overhead costs, you can charge competitive prices and still earn a good profit on each job. 

Flexibility

As your own boss, you’ll have the flexibility to set your own hours and choose how much work to take on. Whether you want to work full-time or part-time, you can tailor the business to fit your lifestyle and goals. This control over your schedule is a major perk of running your own power washing company. 

Scalability

Power washing is a very scalable business. You can start small and gradually grow your team and buy more equipment as you get more customers. This lets you start with a modest investment and expand at a comfortable pace without taking on more than you can handle right away.

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How Much Does It Cost To Start a Power Washing Business?

You can expect to pay from $2,500 to $5,000 to start your business, but you might pay even more for heavy-duty equipment. The cost depends on your choice of washer and whether you already have reliable transportation.

But what do you need to start a pressure washing business? Let’s break down the expenses:

Equipment Costs

One of the most significant and impactful expenses is your power washing equipment. The main item you need is a pressure washer. Commercial-grade pressure washers start at about $1,500 and go up to about $4,000 or more. While they can be expensive, they’ll pay for themselves quickly.

You also need accessories like nozzles, hoses, and wands, which can cost a few hundred dollars more. Some retailers offer kits with everything you need to get started. And don’t forget about protective gear like gloves and eyewear. These items are essential for your safety and comfort while working.

Supplies and Chemicals

Your equipment needs high-quality cleaning supplies to be the most effective. These include detergents and degreasers. You might need other specialized cleaning agents for different surfaces like concrete or wood. These items aren’t too expensive, but you need to resupply as you use them, so factor them into your ongoing costs.

Insurance and Licensing

Protect your business with the right insurance. General liability insurance shields you from potential lawsuits and damages. Expect to pay about $100 a month, depending on your coverage level and location.

Don’t forget to budget for any business licenses and permits required in your area. These costs can range from a few dozen to a few hundred dollars.

Marketing and Advertising

Market and advertise your business to attract customers. You should create a website, design business cards and flyers, and run online ads. Depending on your approach, marketing costs can range from nearly free to thousands of dollars. The DIY approach is always cheaper, but it does take time.

Transportation Costs

You need a reliable vehicle to transport equipment and supplies to your job sites. If you don’t already have a suitable truck or van, you may need to buy or lease one. This can be a significant expense, with costs varying widely depending on the type of vehicle and whether you buy or lease. Factor in extra costs for fuel, maintenance, and repairs.

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Starting a Power Washing Business: Step-By-Step

Ready to dive in? Here’s how to get a power washing business off the ground:

1. Research Your Market

Before anything else, research your local market conditions. Is it saturated, or is there room for a new player? Look at the competition and identify potential target markets. These might be residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial properties. Consider focusing on a specific niche to stand out.

2. Choose a Legal Business Structure

The simplest option is usually a sole proprietorship, which means you’re the only person running the show. Other common business structures are partnerships and limited liability companies (LLC). Each structure has different tax and legal implications. Consult with an accountant or attorney to find the best option for your situation.

3. Register Your Business and Get Licensed

Register your business with your state. Apply for any necessary licenses and permits. Requirements vary by location, so check with your local government to make sure you’re operating legally.

4. Invest in Quality Equipment

Purchase high-quality, reliable power washing equipment and supplies. You’ll use these items every day, so it’s worth it to invest in a professional-grade washer, nozzles, and protective gear. Remember to budget for maintenance to keep everything in tip-top shape.

5. Set Your Offerings and Pricing

Decide which types of power washing services to offer and set your prices. Consider factors like the type of surface, size of the job, and complexity of the work you expect to do. Research other companies’ pricing in your area to make sure you’re competitive.

6. Set Up Banking and Accounting

Open a business bank account. Set up a bookkeeping system to track your income and expenses. It’s a good idea to use accounting software to simplify the process. You want to make sure your financial records are always as accurate as possible. 

7. Develop Your Marketing Strategy

Create a marketing plan to attract customers and build your brand. Develop a professional logo, website, and social media presence. In the early stages, consider offering promotions or discounts to encourage people to try out your business.

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8. Network and Find Your First Clients

Network with other local businesses and professionals to spread the word. Attend local events, join business associations, and partner with complementary businesses. These might be landscapers or home improvement contractors. And it never hurts to reach out to potential clients and offer your services. 

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5 Pressure Washing Business Tips for Growing Your Client Base

Once you’ve got your business off the ground and have a few clients, you can shift your focus to growth. Here are some tips to help you stand out from the crowd:

1. Create a Loyalty Program. Set up a loyalty program that provides discounts or extra services to repeat customers. Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word by offering referral discounts or rewards.
2. Improve Continuously. Go above and beyond to make sure your clients love your work. Ask for feedback and use it to improve your services. And let happy customers know to leave reviews and refer you to their friends and family.
3. Expand Your Offerings. As your business grows, expand your services or specialize in a particular area. These might include complementary services like window cleaning, gutter cleaning, or deck staining. Stay up-to-date with industry trends and new techniques. This helps you remain competitive and offer the best possible service.
4. Keep Up to Date. You don’t need any formal education to start a power washing business. But investing in training and certifications can help you provide better services. Attend workshops or courses to learn about the latest techniques and best practices.
5. Showcase Your Work. Share before-and-after photos of your work on social media and your website. This attracts new customers and shows the value you could bring to their properties.

Stay Organized and Manage Customers on the Go

As your power washing business grows, so will what you need to manage your day-to-day. An all-in-one platform like Joist helps you invoice customers, collect payments, and access customer information from anywhere, at any time. Keeping track of customers and jobs just got that much easier.