When it comes to starting or running a pressure washing business, one of the most common—and confusing—questions is: What should I charge? At Southeast Softwash, we hear this question all the time. Whether it’s from newcomers picking up their equipment or seasoned pros who still haven’t nailed down their pricing strategy, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s the good news: finding the right price isn’t rocket science—it just takes a bit of strategic thinking.
Why You Shouldn’t Copy-and-Paste Pricing
It’s tempting to Google “average house washing costs” and run with whatever number you find. But national averages don’t reflect your unique business circumstances, location, or market conditions. Pricing varies dramatically between Florida, Ohio, and Alaska, and it depends on factors like your overhead, competition, and goals.
Step 1: Understand Your Overhead
Before you can price jobs, you need to know your costs of doing business. Are you running a lean operation or do you have higher expenses like employees, rent, and insurance? Your overhead determines your base price, and starting too low can put you out of business fast.
If you're just starting out, keeping your overhead low can help you offer competitive prices while you build your reputation. As you grow, you can adjust your pricing to reflect higher costs and greater expertise.
Step 2: Know Your Market
Your competitors' pricing can set a baseline for what customers are willing to pay in your area. Do your homework:
- Are other companies targeting high-end clients, or are they focused on volume jobs?
- How do your skills and equipment compare?
This information can help you decide whether you want to be the “Timex” or the “Rolex” of pressure washing—serving middle-class homeowners or upscale lakefront properties.
Step 3: Experiment and Adjust
Your first year in business is all about learning. Start with a ballpark number, then add 20%. Monitor your close rate:
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Too many yeses? Your prices might be too low—bump them up slightly.
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Too many nos? Back off a bit until you find the sweet spot.
Think of it as a pricing experiment. Over time, you’ll discover the maximum price your market will bear. Keep in mind that prices can shift due to economic changes or local conditions, so revisit your numbers semi-annually.
Learn the Basics: SESW Softwash 101
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, the SESW Softwash 101 class is a fantastic resource. This course covers everything you need to know about running a successful softwash business, including how to set competitive pricing, optimize your operations, and grow your customer base. It's the perfect foundation for anyone entering the industry.
The Square Foot Debate
A square-foot pricing model is popular because it’s simple, but it’s not always the best fit. Why? Because your overhead and local market conditions are unique. Once you know your average job cost, you can work backward to establish your own square-foot rate that reflects your reality—not someone else’s.
The Long Game
Pricing isn’t static. It evolves as you gain experience, the market shifts, and your business grows. Be patient and intentional in your first year; that’s when you’ll lay the foundation for sustainable success.
Bonus Tip: Ready-to-Go Equipment
If you're looking to hit the ground running, we’ve got two Mini Pro Skids ready for immediate pickup. These units are perfect for operators who want reliability and ease of use. Call us today or check the links in the description to grab yours!
Setting your prices might feel like a daunting task, but remember: it’s all about finding your magic number. Start with a solid foundation, adjust as needed, and watch your business thrive. And, if you’re serious about building a successful business, check out the SESW Softwash 101 class to level up your knowledge. Happy washing!
