How Much Does It Cost to Pressure Wash a Driveway in Austin TX

 

A Comprehensive Guide to Driveway Pressure Washing Cost

 

Introduction

Imagine driving up to your home and being greeted by a pristine, welcoming driveway. It’s not just about curb appeal; maintaining your driveway is crucial for its longevity. Among the various maintenance techniques, pressure washing stands out for its effectiveness. But the burning question remains: “How much does it cost to pressure wash a driveway?” This article dives into the factors influencing the cost, including driveway size, material, condition, location, and the service provider, backed by credible industry data.

 

Factors Affecting the Cost to Pressure Wash Driveway

Driveway Size:

The size of your driveway, measured in square footage, is a primary cost determinant. For instance, a small driveway might cost around $325 minimum, a medium one about $400, and a large driveway could range from $450 to $500. 

 

Remember, most companies have a minimum charge, reflecting their need to cover costs and remain profitable. 

Disclaimer: The above prices are the average labor cost of a two-person crew doing the job. $0.30- $0.40 per sq. ft. depending on how dirty the driveway is.

Pressure Washing Driveway Cost by Material:

Your driveway’s material – be it concrete, asphalt, brick, or pavers – plays a significant role in determining the cleaning method and, consequently, the cost. Interestingly, for concrete, brick, asphalt and pavers, the prices are similar based on the size and the prices mentioned above. However, larger driveways might require a more meticulous approach and more time, potentially raising the cost to $500-$700+.

Pressure Washing Concrete Driveway: 

 

Concrete is porous and often requires a high-pressure setting and a concrete-safe cleaning solution. Additional costs may include sealant application to maintain appearance.

Pressure Washing Asphalt Driveway:

 

Asphalt requires a lower pressure setting to avoid damage. Cleaning solutions are applied before pressure washing. A ball valve with a swivel is often used for ideal pressure.

Pressure Washing Brick Driveway:

 

Brick can withstand high-pressure washing, but the mortar attracts dirt and grime, often requiring more time. The process involves soaking, detergent application, and high-pressure washing. Sealant may be applied for longevity.

Pressure Washing Paver Driveway: 

 

Pavers, especially intricate designs, are more expensive to clean due to the many cracks. The method varies depending on whether the pavers are sealed or unsealed. Sealed pavers can withstand high pressure, while unsealed ones require a gentler approach.

Driveway Condition:

The level of dirt and organic growth significantly impacts the cost. A driveway laden with oil, grease, or paint stains necessitates additional cleaning steps, thus increasing the price.

Location:

Your geographical location affects the cost due to regional variations in labor costs and demand. It’s helpful to compare the national average with regional prices. For instance, the cost of pressure washing in Austin, TX, may vary from the national average due to local economic conditions.

Service Provider:

The reputation, experience, and insurance coverage of a service provider influence the cost. For a two-person crew, the average labor cost is around $33 per hour per technician, including taxes. Material costs for soap and gas add about $10+ per hour. Companies also factor in daily overhead costs like insurance, accounting, and marketing.

Looking for a pressure washing company to clean your driveway? Here are some factors to look for when hiring a pressure washing company.

 

National Average Costs:

According to HomeAdvisor, the national average cost for pressure washing a driveway falls between $196 and $420 and average of $308, with variations depending on size and material. In regions like Austin, TX, prices may slightly differ due to local economic factors.

These figures can vary based on the factors mentioned above. For our company, profitability with a two-person crew and material/gas costs starts at $325.

 

Additional Costs to Consider 

Consider optional services like sealing the driveway, which is essential for protecting the surface from weather damage and prolonging its lifespan. Cleaning additional exterior surfaces, such as sidewalks, patios, or fences, not only enhances your property’s overall aesthetic but also maintains the integrity of these areas. Using hot water pressure washing for stubborn stains, and treatments such as weed killing or sandblasting for tough stains, can also influence the final price. These services add to the overall cost.

 

Tips for Saving Money:

Saving money on pressure washing your driveway doesn’t mean compromising on quality. 

1. Start by gathering multiple quotes from different service providers; this not only gives you a range of prices but also an insight into the varying services offered. 
2. Doing some preparatory work yourself can significantly reduce costs. This might include clearing the driveway of vehicles, furniture, or debris, which can save time and labor charges. 
3. Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts or package deals, especially during off-peak times when businesses might offer promotions. 
4. Additionally, be mindful of minimum charges. Some companies have a base fee regardless of the driveway size, so understanding this upfront can help you make a more cost-effective decision. 

By considering these tips, you can ensure that you’re getting the best value for your driveway maintenance needs.

 

Case Study: Driveway Pressure Washing in Round Rock, TX

 

Pressure Washing the Driveway Process:

1. First, it was pressure washed by going in a vertical motion. We also look to see if there are any incline. If the driveway is at an incline we wash from the top so all the water fall down naturally from gravity.  We used a high pressure stream of water to push off all the dirt.

2. After the pressure washing, we post treated the entire surface with 3-6% sodium hypochlorite or SH. This helps takes off the black stripes. Those black stripes are from uneven pressure distributed by the surface cleaner.

3. Leaved the solution to dwell overnight.

Duration:

It took us about 45 minutes to an hour to pressure wash this driveway. Total time was an hour and 30 minutes including the preparation and unloading time.

The Cost:

We quoted the customer of $425 and we gave her a discount for packing everything up. The price she paid was $375.

Job Well Done!

As you can see in the video, the driveway was cleaned, free from dirt and grime. We also included in pressure washing the sidewalk and the walkway.

 

Conclusion

In summary, pressure washing your driveway is a valuable investment in your home’s curb appeal and structural integrity. It’s important to consider the various factors like size, material, and condition of your driveway, as well as the reputation and expertise of the service provider. 

While Full Color Cleaners is a commendable example, always research and compare quotes to ensure you find a service that meets your specific needs and budget. This careful consideration will lead to a wise decision, ensuring your driveway remains in top condition, enhancing both the beauty and value of your property.