How much does it cost to pressure wash your driveway? Expert advice for an efficient clean

Cleaning your driveway, however big, can be a heavy task, so this is where pressure washers come in to make things easier. But how much does it cost to pressure wash your driveway?

Of course, it depends on whether you're buying a pressure washer, renting one, or hiring a professional to do it. With the knowledge of how often you should pressure wash your driveway, it might be more economical to buy one yourself so that, over the years, all you're paying for is running costs.

Regardless, it's much cheaper than doing it by hand. 'Pressure washing your driveway is much more efficient than other methods in a few ways. It's going to use less water and less detergent than using something like a hose and squeegee, and it's also much less labor-intensive,' explains Rafi Friedman, CEO of Coastal Luxury Outdoors.

We've researched and spoken with experts to discover how much it costs to pressure wash your driveway, whether you're doing it yourself or hiring somebody.

How much does it cost to pressure wash your driveway?

This will depend on whether you're pressure washing yourself or paying a professional to do it. If you're going to be using one regularly, even at least once a year, investing in your own pressure washer will save money compared to renting one or paying a professional.

How much does it cost to do it yourself?

Pressuring washing your own driveway is easily the cheapest option. If you already own a pressure washer, then the only costs are water, surface cleaner, and gas or electricity. You can make the task as affordable as possible by opting out of using a surface cleaner and by limiting how much water, gas and electricity you use by applying the lowest possible pressure.

Rafi Friedman, CEO of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, explains how it's still the cheapest method if you don't already own a pressure washer: 'A basic pressure washer can be bought for around $100, and at that point you're only paying for water, electricity, and a bit of detergent.'

It's true that pressure washers are inexpensive machines. Electric pressure washers can start at as little as $139, like this RYOBI 1800 PSI 1.2 GPM model at Home Depot. The more powerful machines tend to cost a bit more, like the RYOBI 3000 PSI 1.1 GPM model at Home Depot, and these will clean your driveway much more quickly.

Gas models are typically more expensive than their electric counterparts while also incurring fuel and maintenance costs - unlike electric washers. The Westinghouse 3200 PSI 2.5 GPM pressure washer at Home Depot is a popular choice, but be mindful of the noise, smell, and constant work that a gas pressure washer demands.

Renting a pressure washer can cost anything from $50 to over $250, depending on the model and how long you need it for.

How much does it cost for a professional to do it?

Paying a professional to pressure wash your driveway will almost always be more expensive unless you're lucky enough to know someone personally who'll do it for cheap. 

'If hiring a contractor, an average-sized driveway of about 1000 sq feet (50 feet long and 20 feet wide) can cost $300-500 to clean,' explains Scott Paul, Owner of DeckStainHelp. 'This equates to about $0.30 - $0.50 per sq foot,' he adds.

While it is the more expensive option, you're paying for the time and labor spent by the contractor. It also ensures the job will be done properly as professionals will be familiar with different surface types, the appropriate pressure, and how to make sure it's done safely and thoroughly. 

Pressure washing your drive will instantly make your home look more attractive. While you're at it, pressure washing your patio will make your outdoor space feel completely refreshed.