The exterior of your house is the first thing people see, and over time, it can get dirty and covered in mildew. A good pressure wash can bring back its original shine, making it look new again. But when it comes to pressure washing, homeowners often wonder whether to do it themselves or hire a pro. Both choices have their benefits and drawbacks.

Here’s a guide to assist you in choosing the ideal approach for your upcoming pressure washing project:

Cost

Cost is often one of the primary considerations for homeowners.

  • At first glance, taking the DIY route appears to be the more economical choice. Whether you rent or buy a pressure washer, along with the required cleaning supplies, it can be much more affordable than hiring a professional service. Plus, if you already have a pressure washer, your expenses are further reduced, mainly covering just the detergents and safety equipment.
  • It’s important to keep in mind the hidden costs involved. DIY pressure washing can lead to potential mistakes, such as using the wrong pressure level or cleaning solution, which could harm your siding, windows, or landscaping. Fixing this damage can lead to unforeseen costs that exceed any initial savings.
  • Hiring professionals means they come equipped with their tools and materials, reducing the chance of damage and guaranteeing that the job is completed properly on the first try. While DIY might seem cost-effective at first, it’s important to consider the possibility of errors and extra costs that could arise, which should be compared to the expense of hiring a professional service.

Time

For many homeowners, time is a precious commodity that often feels limited. Pressure washing can take a lot of time, especially for those who are not familiar with the necessary equipment and techniques.

  • A typical DIY project not only includes the washing itself but also the time needed for preparation, like clearing the area, setting up the equipment, and safeguarding plants and outdoor furniture.
  • Professional pressure washing services bring experience and efficiency to the table. They can finish the job much more quickly thanks to their expertise and specialized tools. What might take an inexperienced homeowner an entire weekend can be done by a professional team in just a few hours. Moreover, professionals take care of everything from preparation to cleanup, allowing you to focus on other activities.

Quality of Results

One of the strongest reasons to hire a professional pressure washing service is the high quality of their results.

  • DIY enthusiasts may not have the same level of skill, which can result in inconsistent cleaning, overlooked areas, or even damage to the surfaces. While DIY pressure washing can produce decent outcomes, the level of quality and attention to detail offered by a professional service is typically unmatched.
  • Professionals have the training and experience to clean various surfaces effectively while avoiding any damage. They are knowledgeable about the specific needs of different materials and can tailor pressure settings and select the right cleaning solutions to match.

Safety

Pressure washers are powerful tools that can pose significant safety risks if not operated properly. Incorrect use may lead to serious injuries like cuts and punctures from the intense water jets. Additionally, there are hazards associated with using ladders and extension wands to access elevated parts of your home.

  • If you’re taking the DIY route, it’s essential to prioritize safety by wearing goggles, gloves, and non-slip shoes and to get to know how to operate the equipment safely. However, the risk remains higher for those without professional training.
  • Professionals are skilled in using pressure washers safely. They wear the right protective equipment and adhere to rigorous safety guidelines to reduce risks. With their experience in working at heights and handling potentially dangerous spots around your home, hiring a professional service lowers the chances of accidents and injuries, giving you confidence that the task will be done safely.

Maintenance

Keeping up with regular maintenance is essential for maintaining the cleanliness and look of your home’s exterior.

  • While DIY pressure washing is great for those occasional deep cleans, keeping up with a routine can be tough.
  • Many professional pressure washing companies provide maintenance plans that feature routine cleanings and inspections, helping to keep your home in excellent shape all year round.
  • Hiring professionals ensures consistent maintenance and helps catch early signs of problems like mold, mildew, or surface damage that you might miss. They can provide you with valuable advice on continuous care and preventive strategies to prolong the life of your siding, brick, or wood surfaces, which can ultimately lead to cost savings over time.

Environmental Impact

One important factor that is frequently overlooked when it comes to pressure washing is its effect on the environment. The water that runs off can transport soaps, chemicals, and waste into storm drains, which may pose a threat to nearby water bodies and wildlife. 

  • As a DIY enthusiast, it’s important to be cautious about the products and techniques you choose, as they can unintentionally harm the environment. Opting for biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning solutions, along with being aware of where the runoff water flows, can help reduce these risks.
  • Professional pressure washing services are typically knowledgeable about eco-friendly methods. They utilize safe cleaning agents and implement strategies to control and contain runoff efficiently. By choosing a professional, you can be confident that the work will be completed with a minimal environmental impact, leveraging their expertise in best practices and regulations.

When choosing between hiring a professional for pressure washing or DIY, it’s important to consider various factors such as cost, time, quality of results, safety, maintenance, and environmental impact. Although DIY might appear to be a more budget-friendly option and allows you to manage the process, the skills, speed, and thoroughness of professional services often make the expense worthwhile. By evaluating these pros and cons, you can make a well-informed choice that aligns with your needs and keeps your home’s exterior looking pristine and well-maintained.

At Main Cleaning Solutions, we make a home feel like home again. Discover how our expert Pressure Washing Services can refresh your home or office to its original glory. Call us at 850.728.4284, and we’d love to chat about how we can help. Check out our full list of services, or drop us a message on Facebook.