Introduction
Pressure washing is a fast and effective way to remove years of dirt, grime, algae, oil, and mildew from outdoor surfaces. Whether you’re sprucing up your driveway, preparing your house exterior for painting, or simply keeping your patio looking its best, one question consistently comes up:
How long does a pressure washing job take?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on the surface type, area size, dirt level, tools used, and whether the job is handled by a professional or as a DIY project, the timeframe can vary from 30 minutes to multiple days.
This guide breaks down all the variables that influence how long a pressure washing job takes. You’ll find estimated timelines by surface type, comparison tables between DIY and professional jobs, efficiency tips, and frequently asked questions.
Average Pressure Washing Times by Surface Type
Here’s a general estimate of how long various pressure washing jobs take when using either home-grade equipment or hiring professionals.
Table 1: Estimated Pressure Washing Times
| Surface Type | Typical Area Size | DIY Time Estimate | Professional Time Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Patio | 15–20 m² | 1–2 hours | 30–45 minutes |
| Medium Patio | 30–40 m² | 2–3 hours | 1–1.5 hours |
| Large Driveway | 60–90 m² | 3–5 hours | 2–3 hours |
| Decking | 15–25 m² | 1.5–2.5 hours | 45 mins – 1.5 hours |
| Exterior Brick Wall | 10–15 m² | 1 hour | 30–45 minutes |
| House Exterior Walls | 100–200 m² | 6–10 hours | 3–5 hours |
| Roof Cleaning | Full roof | 1–2 days (DIY) | 4–8 hours |
Note: DIY estimates are based on average consumer-grade electric washers; professional times assume commercial petrol-powered washers.
Key Factors Affecting Pressure Washing Duration
1. Surface Area
Naturally, the more square metres you need to clean, the longer it takes. For reference:
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A standard driveway is ~50–60 m²
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A patio ranges from 20–40 m²
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A typical semi-detached house exterior is ~150–180 m²
2. Surface Material
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Concrete and block paving: Easy and fast to clean
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Decking (wood): Requires careful technique to avoid damage
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Roof tiles or render: Slower process due to safety and access
3. Level of Dirt, Algae, and Staining
A surface covered in green algae or black mould will take longer to clean than one with surface-level dust or dirt. You may also need chemical pre-treatment or post-clean rinsing.
4. Equipment Used
Consumer-Grade (DIY):
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PSI: 1,300–2,000
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Flow Rate: 6–8 litres/min
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Typical cleaning time: 2–3 minutes per square metre
Professional-Grade:
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PSI: 3,000–5,000+
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Flow Rate: 15–20 litres/min
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Typical cleaning time: 30–60 seconds per square metre
5. Preparation and Setup
Time is required for:
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Removing furniture or obstacles
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Connecting hoses and power
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Assembling equipment
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Mixing or applying chemicals
Setup and teardown can take 30–60 minutes for DIY users and 15–20 minutes for pros.
DIY vs Professional Time Comparison
Let’s compare both approaches in terms of speed and efficiency.
Table 2: DIY vs Professional Comparison
| Job Type | DIY Time Estimate | Professional Time Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 20 m² Patio | 1–2 hours | 30–45 minutes |
| 50 m² Driveway | 3–4 hours | 1–2 hours |
| Decking (25 m²) | 2.5–3 hours | 1 hour |
| House Exterior (150 m²) | 1–2 days | 3–5 hours |
| Roof Cleaning (large) | 2 days+ | 4–8 hours |
Professional pressure washing is not only faster — the quality of cleaning and finish is typically higher due to better water flow, pressure control, and expertise.
Pressure Washing Duration by Job Type
1. Driveway Cleaning
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Small driveway (30–40 m²):
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DIY: 2–3 hours
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Professional: 1 hour
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Large driveway (60–90 m²):
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DIY: 4–5 hours
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Professional: 2–3 hours
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2. Patio Cleaning
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Light dirt (20 m²):
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DIY: 1 hour
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Pro: 30–40 minutes
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Heavily mossed or weedy (40 m²):
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DIY: 3–4 hours (with weed removal)
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Pro: 1.5–2 hours
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3. Decking (Timber or Composite)
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Softwood (15–20 m²):
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DIY: 1.5–2 hours (use low-pressure setting)
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Pro: 45 minutes – 1 hour
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Composite decking (30 m²):
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DIY: 2–3 hours
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Pro: 1–1.5 hours
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4. House Exterior Walls
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Bungalow (80–100 m²):
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DIY: 4–6 hours
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Professional: 2–3 hours
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2-storey house (150–200 m²):
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DIY: 1–2 days
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Professional: 4–5 hours
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Note: Professionals use soft-washing or adjustable pressure for painted surfaces and render.
5. Roof Cleaning
Roof cleaning is the slowest and most dangerous job, especially for untrained individuals.
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DIY: Not advised unless you have proper safety gear and experience.
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Professional (1-storey roof): 3–4 hours
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Professional (2-storey or large roof): 6–8 hours
This includes moss scraping, rinsing, and optional biocide application.
Equipment Impact on Time
Table 3: Equipment Performance Comparison
| Machine Type | PSI (Pressure) | Flow Rate (L/min) | Speed (m²/hr) | Time to Clean 50 m² |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Electric | 1,500 | 6 | ~15–20 | 2.5–3.5 hours |
| Mid-Range Petrol | 2,500 | 10–12 | ~35–40 | 1.5–2 hours |
| Commercial Diesel | 4,000+ | 15–20 | 60+ | <1 hour |
Tips to Reduce Cleaning Time
1. Pre-Treat the Surface
Use detergents or moss killers to loosen grime ahead of time.
2. Use a Surface Cleaner Attachment
These round disc-shaped tools cover more area and prevent stripes.
3. Clear the Area
Move bins, furniture, and plants out of the way in advance.
4. Use the Correct Nozzle
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0°: Very narrow, slow (risk of damage)
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15°: Good for stain removal
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25°: Best all-around use
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40°: Light cleaning or rinse
5. Don’t Overlap Too Much
Efficient cleaning involves systematic movement. Avoid over-washing areas that are already clean.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to pressure wash a house?
A single-storey house can take 2–3 hours for a professional and up to 6 hours for DIY. A larger 2-storey house may take up to 1–2 days DIY, or 4–5 hours with a crew.
Can I pressure wash my driveway in one afternoon?
Yes. A 2-car driveway (~60 m²) takes 2–3 hours for DIY users and 1–1.5 hours for professionals.
Does weather affect how long it takes?
Yes. Wind, rain, or extreme cold can slow down drying, increase setup time, or reduce effectiveness.
Should I wash my surfaces in stages?
Yes. Divide larger projects into manageable zones to prevent streaking and fatigue.
Can I speed it up with chemicals?
Pre-treating with detergent can cut time in half for heavily soiled or greasy surfaces.
Final Thoughts
Pressure washing is one of the most satisfying and impactful home maintenance tasks — but it’s important to plan your time properly. A small patio might take less than an hour, while a full house clean can span multiple days if you’re doing it yourself.
Key Takeaways:
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Driveways take 2–4 hours DIY, 1–2 hours professionally.
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Patios and decks take 1–3 hours DIY, under 1.5 hours for pros.
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Roofs and house exteriors are best left to professionals due to time and safety concerns.
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Professional services are typically 2–3x faster than DIY.
Whether you’re saving money with DIY or investing in expert results, knowing how long your pressure washing job should take helps you prepare and achieve the best outcome.
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How Long Does a Pressure Washing Job Take?
Introduction
Pressure washing is one of the fastest, most effective ways to transform tired outdoor spaces into clean, fresh-looking areas. From patios and driveways to decks, roofs, and house exteriors, high-pressure water cleaning removes years of grime, mould, algae, and debris. But whether you’re a homeowner preparing for summer or a property manager cleaning up a large space, one question always comes up:
How long does a pressure washing job actually take?
The answer depends on multiple factors — surface size, material, level of dirt, access, equipment used, and even who’s doing the work (DIY or a professional). Some jobs take under an hour; others can take several hours or even days. This complete guide walks you through everything you need to know about pressure washing timelines.
We’ll cover:
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Estimated cleaning times by surface type
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Differences in DIY vs professional cleaning speed
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How equipment affects time
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Factors that can shorten or extend the job
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Tips to reduce cleaning time
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Common mistakes that slow things down
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FAQs and final takeaways
Understanding the Basics
What is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing involves using a machine to spray water at high velocity (measured in PSI — pounds per square inch) to clean surfaces. Depending on the type of washer and attachment used, the water may be applied at varying pressures and spray angles. Some setups also allow for detergent mixing to break down oily or stubborn substances.
There are two main approaches:
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DIY pressure washing: Often using electric-powered washers available at DIY stores or for rental.
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Professional pressure washing: Performed by trained technicians using petrol-powered or industrial-grade machines with higher PSI and water flow.
Why Time Matters
Time isn’t just about convenience. Understanding the time a pressure washing job will take helps you:
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Budget for labour (if hiring someone)
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Schedule appropriately (especially in poor weather)
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Choose between DIY vs professional
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Determine if a job can be completed in one go
Average Cleaning Times by Surface Type
Different surfaces have unique cleaning requirements. Here’s a breakdown of average times for common pressure washing jobs in the UK.
Table 1: Estimated Time by Surface Type
| Surface | Size (m²) | DIY Time | Pro Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small patio | 15–20 m² | 1–2 hours | 30–45 mins |
| Medium patio | 30–40 m² | 2–3 hours | 1–1.5 hours |
| Large driveway | 60–90 m² | 3–5 hours | 2–3 hours |
| Wooden decking | 15–25 m² | 1.5–2.5 hours | 45–75 mins |
| House exterior walls | 100–200 m² | 6–10 hours | 3–5 hours |
| Brick wall (garden) | 10–15 m² | 1–1.5 hours | 30–45 mins |
| Roof (1-storey house) | Full roof | 1–2 days | 4–8 hours |
| Garden furniture set | N/A | 1–2 hours | 30–60 mins |
Note: DIY estimates are based on entry-level machines with PSI under 2,000. Professional times reflect higher-pressure machines and operator expertise.
Factors That Affect Time Required
1. Surface Area
This one is obvious: larger areas take longer to clean. But it’s not linear. Professionals may complete a 90 m² job only 30% slower than a 45 m² one due to efficiency and better tools.
2. Surface Material
| Material | Time Impact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Low | Smooth and easy to blast clean |
| Block paving | Medium | Needs careful cleaning, may require resanding |
| Timber decking | High | Requires lower pressure and slower passes |
| Natural stone | Medium | Uneven texture needs multiple passes |
| Roof tiles | High | Safety setup and moss removal adds time |
3. Condition of the Surface
The dirtier the surface, the more time it will take. Deep moss, algae, oil stains, bird droppings, or tyre marks increase cleaning time.
| Condition Level | Effect on Time |
|---|---|
| Light dust/dirt | Low |
| Algae/moss | Medium |
| Heavy oil/mildew | High |
| Paint/graffiti | Very high |
DIY vs Professional: Time Efficiency Comparison
One of the biggest advantages of hiring professionals is the time savings.
Table 2: Efficiency Comparison
| Factor | DIY Homeowner | Professional Cleaner |
|---|---|---|
| PSI Rating | 1,300–2,000 PSI | 3,000–5,000+ PSI |
| Cleaning Speed | ~1.5–2.5 m²/min | 4–6 m²/min |
| Water Flow Rate | 6–8 litres/min | 12–20 litres/min |
| Time per 50 m² | 2–3 hours | ~1 hour |
| Setup + Pack-up | 60–90 mins total | 20–30 mins |
Professionals often work in teams, doubling the output and reducing total job time. They also bring specialised attachments like rotary cleaners or telescopic poles for high-up areas, improving speed and coverage.
Typical Job Scenarios and Timeframes
1. Driveway (Block Paving)
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Light debris, no weeds:
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DIY: 2 hours
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Pro: 45 minutes
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Heavy moss and oil stains:
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DIY: 4–5 hours
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Pro: 2–3 hours (may include degreasing chemicals)
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2. House Exterior (Rendered Walls)
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Bungalow (100 m²):
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DIY: 4–6 hours
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Pro: 2.5 hours
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2-storey semi-detached (180 m²):
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DIY: 1–2 days (ladder work, safety setup)
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Pro: 4–5 hours (with water-fed pole and detergent system)
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3. Roof Cleaning
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Low-pitch roof, moderate moss:
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DIY: 1 day
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Pro: 4 hours
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Steep roof, heavy moss buildup:
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DIY: 2+ days (not advised)
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Pro: 1–2 days (includes safety scaffolding)
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Hidden Time Drains to Watch Out For
Sometimes, jobs take longer than expected due to:
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Improper nozzle choice: Using too wide or narrow an angle slows progress.
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Inefficient pattern: Overlapping too much wastes time; too little causes streaking.
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Water supply issues: Limited flow or pressure from tap delays rinsing.
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Drainage problems: Water pooling means extra cleanup or drying time.
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Not pre-treating surfaces: Cleaning untreated algae or grease takes longer.
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Inadequate equipment: Underpowered machines require multiple passes.
Equipment and Attachments: Time Impact
Table 3: Equipment vs Time
| Tool/Attachment | Time Savings | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Surface cleaner disc | Up to 50% faster | Driveways, patios, flat areas |
| Turbo nozzle | 30% faster | Tough stains, mossy corners |
| Extension wand | 20% faster | High walls, 2nd-storey windows |
| Rotary brush | Medium | Siding, conservatory roofs |
| Detergent injector | Medium–high | Oily or food-related surfaces |
Tips to Reduce Cleaning Time
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Plan the layout: Work in sections. Start from the farthest point and move toward drains.
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Use a timer: Helps stay efficient and prevents overcleaning areas.
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Avoid mid-job tasks: Pre-clear surfaces of pots, furniture, or clutter.
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Pick the right nozzle: Use a 25° or 15° nozzle for most medium-duty jobs.
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Pre-wet and pre-soak: Wetting down dusty surfaces first allows dirt to lift faster.
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Use correct detergent: Always choose detergents suited to the material and stain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to pressure wash a whole house?
A: A single-storey bungalow may take 3–5 hours. A larger 2-storey house could take a full day for DIY users but just 4–6 hours for pros.
Q: Is roof pressure washing safe to do yourself?
A: Roof cleaning is time-intensive, physically demanding, and potentially dangerous. DIY is not recommended without experience. Professionals take 4–8 hours depending on size and setup.
Q: Does pressure washing take longer in cold weather?
A: Yes, water flow may be reduced due to hose pressure drops, and drying times increase. Cold weather also makes setups more time-consuming.
Q: Can I pressure wash multiple surfaces in one day?
A: Yes. Many homeowners combine driveways + patios + fences in one session. Expect 6–8 hours of DIY time or 2–4 hours professionally.
Conclusion
So, How Long Does a Pressure Washing Job Take?
It depends on a range of factors: area size, surface type, condition, equipment used, and operator experience. A 20 m² patio might be done in 30 minutes by a professional, while a DIYer could take 2 hours. A whole house exterior? Anywhere from 5 hours to 2 days.
Key Takeaways:
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DIY pressure washing is slower but cost-effective for smaller jobs.
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Professional services are ideal for large, complex, or dirty areas.
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Equipment choice directly impacts job duration.
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Planning and setup are just as important as the actual cleaning time.
If time, quality, and safety are priorities, consider hiring a professional. But if you have patience, basic tools, and a manageable area, DIY is a great weekend project.