Ever notice how much brighter a room feels when the windows are spotless? 

It’s one of those small details that makes a huge difference. But let’s be honest, cleaning windows isn’t the most fun chore. Between streaks, smudges, and those hard-to-reach panes, it can turn into a real headache.

That’s why so many people in Virginia hire professionals to take care of it. 

The big question most people have is, how much does it actually cost?

In this post, we’ll shed some light on how much does window cleaning cost in Virginia, and the factors that affect your final bill. We’ll also give you a quick rundown of our prices.

How Much Does Window Cleaning Cost?

Window cleaning costs somewhere between $5 to $20 per window pane for residential jobs in Virginia. 

That’s the sweet spot most companies hover around. 

For full house cleanings, many homeowners pay between $150 and $350 depending on the size of the house and how many windows there are. 

If you’ve only got a handful of windows, you might get away with $100 or so. 

Bigger homes with tall or oddly shaped windows can go up into the $400+ range.

Commercial jobs are usually quoted differently, often priced per square foot (around $0.50 to $2.50) or based on accessibility.

Also Check Out Our: Full-Service Window Cleaning Services in Powhatan

What Affects The Cost Of Window Cleaning?

There are a bunch of different things that can nudge the cost of window cleaning up or down.

Let’s walk through the main factors that usually shape the price:

#1 Number Of Windows / Panes

This is the starting point for most companies when building a quote. 

Every extra window means more time, more supplies, and more effort. 

A home with 10 or 12 standard windows will naturally cost less than one with 30 or 40 scattered across multiple floors. Some companies even count panes separately, so a big bay window with three or four sections might cost more than a single, solid pane. 

Oh and keep in mind many cleaners also have a minimum service charge.

So even if you’ve got only a few windows that need attention, you’ll still likely pay that base fee.

Also Read: Can You Pressure Wash In The Rain?

#2 Size Of Windows

Size makes a bigger difference than you’d think. 

Standard double-hung windows are fast to clean and easy to handle. But oversized panes like tall picture windows or wide sliding glass doors, require more time and effort. 

Larger glass also tends to show streaks more clearly, so cleaners often take extra care polishing them to a perfect finish. 

The bigger the surface, the more labor involved, and that usually shows up on the bill.

#3 Inside And Outside Cleaning Vs Only One Side

If you just want the outside cleaned, it’ll obviously cost less. 

But most people end up asking for both sides, because it’s kind of pointless to have shiny glass outside when the inside still looks cloudy.

Cleaning both sides roughly doubles the work, and the price usually follows. Still, the difference in clarity is noticeable, and most people find it’s worth the extra.

Some companies package it together, while others break it down so you can pick and choose.

#4 Screens, Tracks, Sills, Frames

Windows aren’t just glass. They’ve got screens, tracks, sills, and frames that collect dust, pollen, bugs, and dirt. 

If you want those cleaned too, expect an add-on fee.

Screens trap pollen, dust, and bugs, especially in the spring and summer. Tracks collect debris and grime that can make windows stick or look messy even after the glass is clean. 

Sills and frames pick up cobwebs, dust, and water spots. 

If you want your windows looking truly refreshed, including these in your service can make a big difference. But that will increase your window cleaning cost.

Also Read: Pressure Washer To Strip Paint

#5 Height And Accessibility

Are your windows easy to reach? Great, you’ll end up paying less.

But once you get into second or third stories, or awkward spots like over stairwells or behind landscaping, the effort jumps way up. Cleaners might need tall ladders, safety harnesses, or special extension tools just to reach those areas. 

The risk factor also comes into play because climbing high ladders or balancing on uneven ground is no small thing. 

That extra time, gear, and skill is why tall or tricky windows cost more. 

So if your place is a simple one-story home, you’re in luck. If you’ve got that gorgeous three-story colonial with lots of fancy angles, expect to pay a little extra.

#6 Condition Of Your Windows

Windows that get cleaned regularly are a breeze. A little dust, some light spots, and they’re sparkling again in no time. 

But if it’s been years (or never) since they’ve been touched, things change. 

Hard water stains from sprinklers, mineral deposits, sap from nearby trees, or old paint flecks from past projects can all add hours to the job. Sometimes cleaners even have to break out special solutions or razor tools to get everything off. 

That extra labor usually means an extra fee. 

Basically, the more neglected your windows are, the more it’ll cost to bring them back to life. 

If you keep up with it once or twice a year,your window cleaning cost stays on the lower end, and your glass always looks fresh.

Bottom Line

Most homeowners can expect to pay between $150 and $350 for a full house window cleaning job, but that number depends on size, window type, and what extras you want.

If you’re debating hiring a pro, think about how much time it’d take to do it yourself. 

Ladders, cleaning supplies, and scrubbing every last streak can eat up your whole weekend. A professional will knock it out fast, leave your glass spotless, and save you the hassle.

So the next time your windows start looking dull, you’ll know what kind of price range to expect.

So, you’ve got some old paint you need to get rid of and a pressure washer sitting in the garage. 

First thought: can you use it to blast off the paint? Short answer – yes, you totally can. 

Pressure washers are surprisingly good at stripping away old, flaky paint when used the right way. But hold on, it’s not as simple as just pointing the nozzle and pulling the trigger. There are a few things you need to know first.

In this post, we’ll show you how to use a pressure washer to strip paint.

Can I Use A Pressure Washer To Strip Paint?

Yes, a pressure washer can be a great tool for removing paint from fences, decks, siding, brick, concrete and many other surfaces.

If the paint is already peeling or loose, water pressure can lift it clean off!

Most pressure washers that are gas-powered and push out 2500 to 4000 PSI will do the trick. Electric ones might not pack enough punch unless they’re on the higher end.

You just have to find the sweet spot – enough pressure to remove paint, but not enough to gouge the surface.

That being said, paint removal isn’t exactly what pressure washers were designed for. So don’t expect perfection or a totally clean surface. You’ll probably still need to do some sanding or scraping afterward, especially if you’re planning to repaint.

Also Read: Can You Pressure Wash In The Rain?

When You Shouldn’t Use A Pressure Washer

Pressure washing isn’t a good fit for every surface or situation. 

For starters, don’t mess with it if you think the paint might contain lead. Old houses (pre-1978) are big suspects. Blasting lead paint into the air and soil is a no-go. It’s toxic stuff and needs special handling.

You’ll also want to skip the pressure washer on soft wood, trim, or anything delicate. 

It’s easy to gouge the surface or force water deep into cracks. That causes more headaches down the road.

And if you’re dealing with a finished indoor surface (drywall, for example) definitely skip the pressure washer. That’s a recipe for disaster.

How To Strip Paint With A Pressure Washer

Ready to get to work? Let’s walk through the whole process, step by step. It’s not complicated, but a little prep makes a huge difference.

Also Read: Should I Pressure Wash My House Before Painting?

What You’ll Need

Here’s the short list of gear to gather before you start:

• A pressure washer that can do at least 2,500 PSI (up to 4,000 is even better)
• A 25° or 40° spray tip
• Eye protection, gloves, and maybe long sleeves
• A paint scraper or sander for touch-ups afterward
• Tarps or plastic sheets for catching paint chips

That’s it! Now let’s get into the actual job.

Step 1: Check The Paint Type

Before you get all excited and start blasting away, take a minute to figure out what kind of paint you’re dealing with. This matters more than most people realize. 

If the paint job looks old (like decades old) it could contain lead. 

And blasting that with a pressure washer? Bad idea. You don’t want that dust and debris floating around your yard or into your lungs.

You can grab a lead test kit at the hardware store or have a pro check it out. If it’s lead-free, you’re good to move forward. If not, stop and look into safer removal methods. 

Step 2: Prep The Area

This step isn’t glamorous, but it’ll save you so much cleanup later. 

Start by clearing the area. Move furniture, grills, planters, or anything else you don’t want to spray or cover in paint chips. Then, cover anything nearby you can’t move like plants, outlets, doors, windows. Get them shielded with plastic or tarps. Tape things off if needed.

And don’t forget the ground. Lay down tarps or heavy-duty plastic to catch all those paint flakes. 

Cleanup will be ten times easier!

If you’re working on bare wood, especially something dry like an old fence or deck, spray it down with a garden hose first. Moist wood is less likely to splinter under pressure.

Step 3: Set Up Your Washer

Now we’re getting close to the fun part. But first, get the right settings dialed in on your washer. 

You’ll want a unit that can put out at least 2,500 PSI, as anything weaker might just tickle the paint instead of stripping it.

For the nozzle, go with a 25° or 40° spray tip. A zero-degree tip is way too aggressive and it can damage the surface fast. Attach your chosen tip, make sure everything’s secure, and then get your distance right.

Start about 12 to 18 inches away from the surface. You can move closer if needed, but don’t start right up against it. Hold the wand at a slight angle (about 45 degrees) so the spray lifts the paint rather than drives water straight into the material.

Also Read: How Much Does It Cost To Pressure Wash A Deck?

Step 4: Start Stripping

Fire up the washer and start with a test spot. Pick a small section and see how the paint reacts. 

If it bubbles and peels away easily, awesome – you’re in business. If it just laughs at you and sticks like glue, you may need to get a bit closer or adjust the pressure slightly.

Move in slow, steady passes. Don’t wave the wand around too quickly like you’re washing your car. Take your time, and let the water do the work. Stay consistent with your distance and angle. 

You’ll start to see what comes off easily and what spots might need a second pass or some scraping later.

It’s oddly satisfying once you get into a groove.

Step 5: Clean Up

Once you’ve worked through the area, turn off the washer and let everything dry out.

Now comes the part nobody likes: cleanup. Start by collecting the paint chips from the tarps or plastic. Use a broom, dustpan, or even a shop vac if needed. Just don’t let the debris blow away or wash into drains.

If you skipped the tarp step (we’ve all been there), take a little extra time with cleanup. Walk the area and get as many flakes up as you can. 

Paint chips might not seem like a big deal, but they’re messy and can kill grass or harm pets if left lying around.

Step 6: Finish The Job

At this point, your surface should be looking a lot less painted and a lot more ready to refinish.

Now go over everything with a scraper and knock off any remaining stubborn patches. If there are rough spots or raised edges, hit them with a sanding block or power sander.

Once it’s smooth and clean, check for any cracks, holes, or water damage. Fill or repair as needed, let it all dry completely, and then you’re ready to prime and repaint.

Congrats! You just saved yourself hours of scraping the old-school way.

Bottom Line

Using a pressure washer to strip paint is totally doable – it just takes the right prep and a little care. It’s not a cure-all, and it won’t magically leave a smooth, paint-ready surface. 

But it does give you a strong head start and saves a bunch of time compared to doing it all by hand.

Just remember: protect yourself, protect the surface, and don’t rush the follow-up. 

A little effort upfront makes the rest of the job way easier.

And hey, blasting off old paint can be kind of fun too.

Got a fence that’s seen better days? Maybe it’s looking a little dull, streaked with dirt, or has some green stuff clinging to the boards.

Between rain, humidity, and pollen season, fences take a beating. And while a dirty fence might not seem like a big deal, it can really drag down the look of your whole yard.

Thinking about cleaning it up? Pressure washing is one of the easiest ways to make a tired fence look almost new again.

But before you start calling around for quotes, you’re probably curious about the cost.

In this post, we’ll breakdown how much does it cost to pressure wash a fence in Virginia, and the factors that affect your final cost. We’ll also give you a quick rundown of our prices.

Our Virginia Fence Pressure Washing Prices

Check Out Our: Fence Pressure Washing Service in Powhatan

Average Cost To Pressure Wash Fence

The average cost to pressure wash a fence usually lands somewhere between $90 and $350. 

If you’re just doing a small section or a shorter fence, you might only pay around $100. But longer fences or ones that haven’t been cleaned in years will be on the higher end – sometimes even more if there are special circumstances.

Most pressure washing companies charge by the linear foot, with prices ranging from $0.20 to $0.60 per square foot, depending on a few different things (we’ll get into those soon). 

Here’s a rough idea of what that might look like:

Fence Length	Fence Size in Square Feet	AVG Price
50 feet	300	$60 – $180
100 feet	600	$120 – $360
150 feet	900	$180 – $540
200 feet	1200	$240 – $720

Of course, these are just rough estimates.

Factors That Affect The Cost Of Pressure Washing A Fence

There are a handful of things that can swing the cost to pressure wash a fence up or down. Let’s go through the most common ones you’ll run into:

#1. Fence Size

This one’s probably the most obvious – the more fence you have, the more you’ll pay. 

If you have a cute little backyard with just a few panels, great! But if your fence wraps around an acre? That’s gonna cost more.

Companies often charge by the linear foot, so they’ll measure how long your fence is, and multiply that by their rate. Simple math, but important to know.

Also Read: How Much Does It Cost To Pressure Wash A Deck In Virginia?

#2. Fence Material

The type of fence you have affects how it gets cleaned. 

A wooden fence is going to need a bit more TLC than, say, vinyl. Wood can’t take the same pressure as other materials. It can splinter or gouge if it’s not handled carefully, so the job needs a softer touch and a more careful approach.

Vinyl or PVC fences are usually easier and faster to wash. They’re more durable and don’t soak up moisture like wood, which cuts down on drying time too. 

Metal or chain-link fences are even quicker. But if there’s rust involved, that might add a little to the cost.

#3. Condition Of The Fence

Is your fence just dusty? Or are we talking mold, algae, and years of dirt buildup? 

The worse the condition, the more time and cleaner it takes to get the job done. 

Stains from leaves, rust, or sap can be super stubborn and often need special cleaning solutions.

If your fence has peeling paint or old stain, some contractors might charge more to strip it clean. Same goes for fences with thick layers of grime that need a good pre-soak or repeat passes.

#4. Fence Height And Accessibility

A standard 4-foot picket fence is one thing. But a fence that is 6 or 8 feet tall and stretches along a slope is a different story.

Tall fences may require ladders, safety gear, or extension wands to reach the top.

And if the fence is wedged in behind bushes, trees, or landscaping, that slows things down too.

The easier it is to get to, the cheaper it’ll be. So if your fence is easy to access and no taller than average, you’re probably in the lower price range.

Also Read: Can You Pressure Wash In The Rain?

#5. Prep Work

Some fences are ready to go. Others need a little prep before anyone turns on the pressure washer. Here’s what that might include:

• Clearing vines or overgrown plants
  
• Removing patio furniture or lawn decor nearby
  
• Sweeping or rinsing off loose debris
  
• Taping or protecting outlets, lighting, or delicate parts

Some pros include this in their base price, others charge separately. 

If your fence needs a lot of prep, expect a small bump in the cost.

#6. Location

Virginia’s a big state, and pricing can vary depending on where you live.

In places like Northern Virginia or closer to DC, you’ll probably see higher prices, just because everything costs more there.

In smaller towns or rural areas, rates might be lower.

But if you’re far out from where the pressure washing company is based, they might charge a travel fee. It’s something to ask about when you call around.

#7. Add-On Services

Pressure washing might just be the first step. Many homeowners follow up with sealing or staining the fence to protect it from the weather and keep it looking sharp. 

That’s a great move, especially for wood fences, but it comes at an extra cost.

You might also see offers for:

• Fence repairs (loose boards, nails, or posts)
  
• Mold or algae treatment
  
• Gutter or deck washing while they’re at it

These add-ons can usually be bundled for a better price than doing them separately.

Bottom Line

On average, the cost of pressure washing a fence is around $0.20 – $0.60 per square foot in Virginia, with some jobs going higher depending on what you’ve got going on. 

A simple 100-foot fence in decent shape might cost about $180. A bigger fence with grime, mold, or tricky access could run up to $400 or more.

Want to save some money? You can rent a pressure washer for about $50 to $100 a day. 

But keep in mind, using one takes a little practice, especially on wood. Done wrong, it’s easy to damage boards or leave streaks.

Hiring a pressure washing pro is often the safer bet. They’ll get it done fast, clean, and with better results. Most offer free estimates, so it’s worth getting a few quotes to compare.

Thinking about giving your deck a good pressure wash? Decks take a beating from the weather, and pressure washing is one of the fastest ways to bring them back to life. 

But before you grab the phone or rent a washer, it’s good to know what kind of price range you’re looking at – and what actually affects the final bill. 

In this post, we’ll break down the average cost to pressure wash a deck, and what factors can drive the price up or down. Plus, we’ll also give you a quick rundown of our Powhatan deck pressure washing prices.

Our Deck Pressure Washing Costs

Check Out: Full-Service Deck Pressure Washing in Powhatan

Average Cost To Pressure Wash Decks

The cost to pressure wash a deck is around $100 to $300 in Virginia. Some companies charge per foot and the prices usually fall under $0.30 to $0.80 per square foot.

For a small deck (let’s say 100-200 square feet), it might be closer to the $100 to $150 range. Bigger decks, 400-600 square feet or more, could hit that $250 or even $300 mark. 

It’s also possible for prices to go beyond that, especially for larger or more complex jobs.

And keep in mind: some companies might charge extra for things like moving furniture or special treatments. We’ll talk more about those in a bit.

Factors That Affect The Cost To Pressure Wash Decks

There are quite a few things that can make the cost of pressure washing a deck go up or down. Let’s get into the details so you can understand what’s behind the price:

#1 Deck Size

This one’s pretty straightforward: the bigger the deck, the more it’s going to cost. Simple as that. 

A small deck takes way less time to clean than a huge one. So, if you’ve got a large, multi-level deck or a big patio space, expect the cost to be on the higher end.

Some companies charge by square footage, which is the most common method. 

They’ll measure your deck and then multiply it by their rate. 

So, for example, if they charge $0.30 per square foot, and you’ve got 500 square feet, that’s $150. You can easily do the math based on your deck size.

Also Read: When To Power Wash Your House In Virginia

#2 Type Of Material

The material of your deck will also affect the cost. 

Wood decks are the most common and tend to cost less to pressure wash. But if you have something like composite decking, which is a mix of wood fibers and plastic, it might take a little more work to clean and could end up costing a bit more.

Some materials might require special cleaners or different techniques, which can raise the price. 

For example, softwoods like pine are easier to clean than harder woods like teak or ipe. The more delicate the wood, the more careful they have to be with the pressure. 

If you have a composite or vinyl deck, the pressure has to be just right. If it’s too high, you might damage it.

#3 Condition Of The Deck

If your deck’s in bad shape, that’s another thing that can affect the cost. 

A deck that’s been neglected for a while or is covered in a lot of dirt, algae, or mildew is going to take more time and effort to clean. 

Cleaning a deck that’s been regularly maintained will take way less time, so it’ll cost less.

Also, if there’s peeling paint or staining, the pressure washer might not do the trick. The cleaners they use could help, but in some cases, you might need additional services to make it look good.

Also Read: Should I Pressure Wash My House Before Painting?

#4 Deck Height And Accessibility

This one’s all about how easy it is to get to your deck. 

If your deck is raised up, say, 8 feet or higher, or has hard-to-reach areas, that’s going to add to the cost of pressure washing a deck. High decks need special equipment, like ladders or scaffolding, to safely get up there. That takes extra time and effort.

The harder it is to get to those spots, the more it’ll cost.

If your deck is on the ground or is easily accessible, you won’t have to pay that premium.

#5 Water Source

In some cases, the company doing the pressure washing might need to bring their own water source if your outdoor faucet isn’t close enough, or if you don’t have one at all. 

That’s something you don’t always think about, but it’s a factor in the price. 

If they need to bring their own equipment or water, they might tack on an additional fee to cover the cost of transporting it.

#6 Add-On Services

Pressure washing is often part of a bigger service. 

Some companies offer deck sealing or staining after they clean. These services usually come with an additional charge, but it’s worth considering. 

For example, sealing or staining your deck can help it last longer, keeping that fresh look for years to come. So if you’re already paying to have it cleaned, it might be a good idea to get those extra services while you’re at it.

Keep in mind that sealing or staining a deck isn’t usually part of a standard pressure washing package. So, make sure to ask if that’s something they offer.

#7 Location & Market Rates

Where you live in Virginia matters, too. 

Prices can vary by region because of competition, the local labor rates, and a few other factors. 

Deck cleaning in a busy city area like Arlington or Virginia Beach might cost a bit more than it would in a rural area. The cost of living in the area and the demand for pressure washing services can influence how much you’ll end up paying.

Some areas may also have stricter regulations about water usage or the types of cleaning chemicals that can be used. This can affect how a company charges for services as well.

Bottom Line

Pressure washing a deck in Virginia generally costs between $100 and $300, but it can go up based on a few things like deck size, material, condition, and accessibility. 

If you’ve got a bigger, higher, or harder-to-reach deck, you’ll probably pay more. Adding extra services like sealing or staining will also bump the price up.

If you’re looking to get a more accurate estimate, the best bet is to get a few quotes from local pressure washing companies. It’ll give you a good idea of what’s standard in your area and what you can expect for your specific deck.

In the end, giving your deck a good cleaning is a relatively affordable way to keep it looking nice.

Rainy day and still got that to-do list staring you down? If pressure washing is on it, you might be wondering if it’s okay to get the job done while it’s wet outside. 

The short answer is yes, you can pressure wash in the rain. But it depends on a few things. 

Some conditions are totally fine, but others are not worth the risk.

In this post, we’ll explain when it’s safe to pressure wash in the rain, and when to avoid it. Plus, we’ll also go over the pros and cons.

Is It Safe To Pressure Wash In The Rain?

Yes, it’s safe to pressure wash in light rain. In fact, a little drizzle can actually help with the job. It keeps surfaces damp, which can stop detergents from drying up too fast. 

Some people actually prefer working in light rain for this reason.

You should also use a gas-powered pressure washer if you’re doing it in the rain. 

Electric pressure washers are a totally different story. These aren’t designed to be out in wet weather. Using one in the rain can be straight-up dangerous.

Another thing to think about is your footing. Wet ground gets slippery fast. And pressure washers aren’t exactly gentle. You don’t want to be slipping mid-spray. That’s how injuries (and broken things) happen.

Also Check Out Our Powhatan Deck Pressure Washing Services

So, there’s a lot to consider before you pressure wash in the rain.

When You Should NOT Pressure Wash In The Rain

There are a few situations where it’s just not worth powering through the rain. If any of these apply, it’s probably best to hold off on the power washing session:

#1 During Thunderstorms Or Lightning

This is the one situation where it’s absolutely not worth taking any chances. 

If you hear thunder or see lightning, pack it up immediately. Water is a conductor, and if you’re outside holding a metal wand, you’re basically waving around a lightning rod. 

Even if the storm seems far off, lightning can travel miles. 

It’s just not worth risking your safety over a cleaning job. Wait until the sky clears up and it’s totally calm.

#2 Heavy Rain Or Wind

A light drizzle might be fine, but heavy rain is a whole different story. 

You’ll have trouble seeing what you’re spraying, which can lead to uneven cleaning or missed spots. And the rain will wash away your cleaning detergent before it has time to work. 

On top of that, strong wind can blow spray back at you, spread grime to clean areas, or knock over your tools and equipment. 

Basically, it turns a simple task into a soggy, frustrating mess. 

You’ll probably spend more time fixing your work than actually finishing it.

Also Read: When To Power Wash Your House

#3 If Using Electric Pressure Washers

Electricity and water don’t get along. If your pressure washer plugs into a wall or extension cord, skip the rainy-day washing. 

Even if the machine has some level of water resistance, most outlets and cords are not meant to be wet. One splash in the wrong place could short out the unit – or worse, shock you. 

Unless your gear is specifically designed for wet conditions (which is rare), it’s better to play it safe and wait for dry weather. 

Gas-powered washers are a bit more forgiving, but still need to be handled with care.

#4 If There’s Slippery Or Uneven Surfaces

Rain turns steps, decks, driveways, and walkways into slick traps. Add in the force of a pressure washer, and you’re just asking for a fall. 

If the surface you’re working on isn’t flat, stable, and grippy, the risk of slipping goes way up. 

Combine that with uneven ground, hoses underfoot, and water flying everywhere, and it’s a situation to avoid. 

So wait for better footing or bring in slip-resistant mats if it really can’t wait.

Pros And Cons Of Pressure Washing In The Rain

Still thinking about pushing through? Here’s a quick look at the ups and downs of pressure washing in the rain:

Pros	Cons
Keeps the surface wet so detergent doesn’t dry too fast	Can’t always see what’s already been cleaned
Helps rinse off soap more evenly	May wash away detergent before it activates
Prevents streaking from drying too fast	Slippery surfaces can be dangerous
Can get more done on tight schedules	It’s kinda uncomfortable
Saves water in hot/dry seasons

Yes, there are perks, but they don’t outweigh the risks in bad weather.

Also Read: Should I Pressure Wash My House Before Painting?

Tips For Pressure Washing In Light Rain

If you look outside and it’s just a gentle, steady drizzle, you might still be good to go. Here are some of our best tips for pressure washing in the rain:

• Wear waterproof boots with good traction
  
• Use a gas-powered pressure washer instead of electric
  
• Avoid ladders – use extension wands to reach high spots
  
• Keep your machine on dry ground or elevated on a board
  
• Watch out for puddles, mud, and hoses that can trip you up
  
• Take breaks to check your progress since rain can hide what’s already clean

Alternative Options When It’s Too Wet

Sometimes, it’s just not the day for outdoor power washing. That’s okay. You’ve got options.

You could shift your focus indoors. Clean up the garage, reorganize the shed, or even tackle some indoor deep-cleaning projects. 

If you’re set on getting the outside sparkling, maybe do some prep work instead. Pull weeds, sweep, or spot-scrub surfaces by hand. These jobs help get things ready for your next sunny-day power washing session.

Or hey, just take the day off. Rest is productive, too.

Bottom Line

You can pressure wash in the rain if the conditions are safe. 

Light rain is usually fine, especially with gas-powered equipment and good footing. But once you add thunder, heavy rain, electric gear, or slick surfaces to the mix, it’s time to pack it up.

At the end of the day, pressure washing isn’t worth risking your safety (or your equipment). Rain comes and goes. That grime will still be there tomorrow. 

If it’s just drizzling and you’re prepared? Go for it. Otherwise, play it smart, stay dry, and live to spray another day.

Thinking about giving your house a fresh coat of paint? Awesome!

But before you dive into the fun part of picking colors and getting your brushes ready, there’s one important step you shouldn’t skip: pressure washing.

You might be wondering if it’s really necessary or just an extra step, but trust me, it’s worth the time and effort.

In this post, I’ll explain why you should pressure wash before painting and how to do it safely—so your paint job turns out looking like a total pro did it!

Why You Should Pressure Wash Before Painting

Before you even think about slapping on that new coat of paint, there are a few reasons why you should seriously consider pressure washing your house:

Gets Rid Of Dirt And Grime

One of the first things pressure washing does is remove all the dirt that’s settled on your house.

Over time, stuff like dust, pollen, bird poop, mildew, and even pollution can build up on your walls. If you try to paint over all this stuff, the paint won’t go on well.

Think about it like this: when you paint a wall inside your house, you wipe it down first, right?

Same goes for the outside of your house.

If you don’t clean it, all that dirt and grime will keep the paint from sticking well. Pressure washing gets rid of all that and gives the paint a nice, clean surface to bond to.

Prevents Paint Problems Later

Imagine you spend hours painting, only to find out a few months later that your paint is bubbling, peeling, or cracking. That’s because you didn’t get rid of the grime before applying it.

Pressure washing removes anything that could get in the way of the paint’s bond.

This helps the paint stay on longer, which means fewer touch-ups down the road.

Nobody likes to repaint sooner than necessary, right?

Helps You Spot Any Hidden Damage

Another cool thing about pressure washing is that it can help you spot any hidden damage.

As you’re washing away the dirt and debris, you might notice things like cracks in the siding, rotting wood, or loose shingles. If you paint over these issues, they can get worse over time, leading to bigger, more expensive repairs.

Pressure washing gives you a chance to fix any hidden damage before you start painting.

This is a win-win for the long-term health of your house.

Makes Paint Stick Better

Paint sticks better to a clean surface. Simple as that.

If your house is dirty, the paint won’t adhere well, and it could end up peeling or fading much faster. Pressure washing ensures that the surface is spotless, so your paint has the best chance of sticking and lasting for years.

You’ll save yourself from having to repaint sooner, and your house will look amazing.

Also Read: When to power wash house

6 Tips To Safely Pressure Wash Your House Before Painting

Pressure washing sounds easy enough, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make sure you’re doing it safely and effectively.

Let’s go over some tips that’ll help you avoid the common mistakes:

#1 Use The Right Pressure Setting

Here’s the first thing to remember: Not all surfaces need the same amount of pressure.

You don’t want to blast everything with high pressure because you could end up damaging your house.

For example, if you’ve got wooden siding, it’s more delicate, so you should use a lower pressure setting. On the other hand, things like brick or stucco can handle a bit more pressure.

Most pressure washers let you adjust the pressure, so start with a lower setting (about 1,000-1,500 PSI) and test it out first.

If you’re unsure, check the instructions for your house’s material or try it on a small section first.

#2 Avoid High Pressure On Sensitive Surfaces

Some areas of your house (like wood siding, windows, and older shingles) are more sensitive to pressure washing than others.

High pressure can strip paint, tear off shingles, or even damage wooden panels.

So, when you’re washing these areas, keep the pressure low and use a wide nozzle to spread out the water over a bigger surface.

If you have delicate features like decorative trim, it’s better to err on the side of caution and reduce the pressure.

You can always increase it slightly if needed, but you can’t undo damage once it’s done.

#3 Don’t Spray Into Electrical Outlets Or Windows

This one’s a no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning.

Never direct the pressure washer spray directly into electrical outlets, windows, or other openings. Water could get into places where it shouldn’t, and you don’t want to short-circuit anything or damage your windows.

Be cautious when you are washing around these areas.

Cover your outlets with some plastic or tape to keep them dry.

When you’re spraying near windows, keep the nozzle a few feet away so you don’t risk cracking the glass. You can get pretty close, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Also check out our: Powhatan Window Cleaning Services

#4 Don’t Pressure Wash In Bad Weather

I get it—sometimes you’re eager to get the job done, but pressure washing in bad weather is a recipe for disaster.

For example, if it’s too windy, debris could be blown back onto the clean surface, making it harder to paint. On the other hand, if it’s really hot and sunny, the surface could dry too quickly, leaving water spots or streaks.

The best weather for pressure washing is mild and dry, and not too hot or cold.

#5 Watch Out For Loose Siding Or Shingles

While you’re pressure washing, be on the lookout for loose or damaged shingles, siding, or trim.

If something’s already loose, the pressure could tear it off completely. This could leave your house exposed to the elements and make the painting process harder.

So before you start, take a walk around your house and check for any loose or damaged areas.

If you find any, fix them first, so you don’t accidentally make things worse while cleaning.

#6 Don’t Overdo It

It’s tempting to just go all-in and blast every inch of your house, but don’t overdo it.

Too much pressure or too much water can damage your house.

Always be gentle. You’re not trying to strip the paint off (unless it’s already peeling) – just clean the surface enough so the paint can stick. And don’t spend too much time on one spot.

If you notice the surface getting too wet or damaged, back off a little.

Bottom Line

So, should you pressure wash before painting? Absolutely.

It’s one of the best things you can do to make sure your paint job lasts longer and looks better.

Pressure washing gets rid of dirt, grime, and old paint, which helps the new coat adhere. It also gives you a chance to spot any hidden damage that could cause bigger issues down the road.

Just remember to use the right pressure, be gentle on sensitive surfaces, and take your time.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful, long-lasting paint job.

FAQs

Can You Power Wash A Painted House?

Yes, you can power wash a painted house, but you need to be careful. High pressure can damage the paint or even strip it off, especially if the paint is old or peeling.

If your paint is in good condition and you just want to clean it, a lower pressure setting is best to prevent any issues.

How Long To Wait To Paint After Washing Exterior?

After pressure washing your house, you should wait at least 24 to 48 hours before painting. This gives the surface enough time to dry completely.

If the weather is humid or rainy, it might take longer.