How Long Does It Typically Take to Pressure Wash a House?
- Vanessa Brown
- Jul 1
- 3 min read
Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to remove dirt, mold, mildew, and grime from your home’s exterior. But before diving into the task—or hiring a professional—you might be wondering: How long does it typically take to pressure wash a house?
The answer varies based on several key factors, but on average, pressure washing a house takes between 1 to 5 hours. In this article, we’ll break down what affects the cleaning time and offer insights into what you can expect, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring an expert.
Key Factors That Affect Pressure Washing Time
1. Size of the House
The most obvious factor is the size of your home. A small one-story home under 1,500 square feet can often be pressure washed in 1 to 2 hours. A medium-sized home between 1,500 to 2,500 square feet might take 2 to 3 hours, while a larger home—especially one with two or more stories—can take 3 to 5 hours or more.
More square footage means more surface area to clean, and multi-story homes require additional setup time, ladders, or extension tools.
2. Type of Exterior Surface
Different surfaces take different amounts of time to clean. Vinyl siding is relatively easy and quick to wash, while brick, stucco, or wood may require a more careful approach or lower pressure settings. These variations affect the speed and thoroughness of the job.
For example:
Vinyl siding: Fast and straightforward
Brick: Slower, may require pre-treatment
Stucco or wood: Delicate, often needs a soft washing technique
3. Level of Dirt and Buildup
If your home hasn’t been washed in years, expect the job to take longer. Mold, algae, grease, and deeply embedded dirt all require more time and sometimes a two-step process involving pre-treatment and dwell time for cleaners.
Heavily soiled surfaces may need:
Detergent application
Dwell time (10–15 minutes or more)
A slower wash pass for thorough cleaning
4. Professional vs. DIY
A professional with commercial-grade equipment can often finish the job faster and more efficiently than a homeowner using a rental or residential pressure washer. Professionals are also trained to navigate ladders, rooflines, and landscaping efficiently, reducing time and risk.
Professional job: Typically 1–3 hours for an average-sized home
DIY job: Could take 3–6 hours depending on equipment and experience
5. Preparation Time
Don’t forget about prep time! This includes:
Moving furniture or planters
Covering electrical outlets and vents
Closing windows and doors
Setting up equipment
Prep can add 30–60 minutes to the total job, especially for a DIY project.
Speed vs. Thoroughness
While everyone wants a quick job, speed shouldn’t come at the cost of quality. Rushing through pressure washing can leave behind patches of dirt or even damage surfaces if pressure is applied incorrectly. The goal is a safe, even, and thorough clean, not just a fast one.
Tips to Save Time
Pre-treat problem areas with detergent to loosen grime.
Use the right nozzle for each surface—wide angles clean faster without damaging surfaces.
Invest in equipment with a higher GPM (gallons per minute) rating for faster coverage.
Work in sections to stay organized and avoid missed spots.
Final Thoughts
On average, pressure washing a house takes 1 to 5 hours depending on its size, surface type, dirt level, and whether you're doing it yourself or hiring a pro. With proper prep and the right tools, the process can be efficient, safe, and highly rewarding.
If you’re short on time or want professional-level results, hiring an experienced pressure washing service can ensure your home looks its best with minimal hassle.
Want fast, professional pressure washing without the guesswork? Contact us today for a free quote and let our experts bring your home’s exterior back to life—quickly and safely.
