Quick Answer
Pressure washing a driveway costs $150–$450, a full house wash runs $250–$700, and roof cleaning typically costs $300–$800 in Australia. Prices vary by surface area, contamination level, access requirements, and whether chemical treatment or sealing is included.
Worldwide 2026
Pressure Washing Costs
Driveway cleaning usually costs $150–$450, a full house wash runs $250–$700, and roof cleaning typically costs $300–$800 in Australia depending on size, surface type and treatment method.
Real pricing data for every pressure washing service — driveway, house wash, roof cleaning, deck cleaning, graffiti removal, commercial washing and more. Compare costs across Australia, UK, USA, Canada and New Zealand.
Headline answer
$150–$1,200/job
Driveway cleaning is the most affordable entry point. Full property pre-sale washes sit at the premium end.
Pressure washing in Australia costs $150–$1,200/job on average in 2026.
Driveway cleaning from $150. Full house wash from $250. Prices vary by surface type, area and treatment method.
Pressure washing prices mainly move with surface area, the cleaning method, chemical treatment, and access difficulty. Small hard-surface jobs stay near the low end, while roofs, multi-surface homes, and sealing add-ons push quotes sharply higher.
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Verified pricing snapshot
Real collected price points, a visible update stamp, and a clear methodology path above the fold.
How we get these prices: we compare 260 live pressure washing price points across 12 service types, cross-check completed-job totals from operators in 16 cities, and normalise surface type, chemical treatment, access equipment and sealing scope so the published range reflects like-for-like work.
Price Calculator
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Choose your location and job type to get a fast planning range, then use the quote CTA below the result to compare providers.
Estimate only the surfaces being cleaned. Driveways are often 40-70 m², while a house wash plus paths can quickly push beyond 150 m².
10 inputs applied
Estimated project cost
$271 – $674
Typical quote target: $446
Based on driveway cleaning pricing in National Average. Adjust any field below to tighten the range for your job.
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Driveway Cleaning
National Average
Budget signal
$446
Use the midpoint as the first filter when quotes come back.
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Shortlist 3 written quotes
Reject vague totals and compare inclusions line by line.
Project assumptions
Quote checklist
Confirm whether detergent, mould treatment, graffiti chemicals, and post-clean sealing are included or billed separately.
Ask if the crew is soft-washing delicate render, roofs, painted cladding, and timber instead of using full pressure everywhere.
Check whether water supply, access equipment, and any priority or weekend loading are already built into the quote.
Low end
$271
Straightforward job, standard access, common materials.
Likely average
$446
A realistic planning number for a professional install.
Average per unit
$5
Roughly $5 per m² before quote-specific adjustments.
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Use this range to reject weak quotes fast, then check written inclusions before you book.
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Lower Typical Price
Exterior Clean Melbourne
Avg $465, about $48 below the alternative.
Higher Rated
Exterior Clean Melbourne
4.5/5 overall rating with melbourne homeowners with rendered walls, heritage surfaces or heritage-listed properties needing specialist soft wash techniques. positioning.
Gutter-Vac
Brisbane, QLD
4.2/5 rating
Price range
$150-$1,400
Tracked across the services listed for this provider.
Typical quote
$513
Midpoint across tracked services for a fast budget read.
Service footprint
Pros
Cons
Exterior Clean Melbourne
Melbourne, VIC
4.5/5 rating
Price range
$200-$850
Tracked across the services listed for this provider.
Typical quote
$465
Midpoint across tracked services for a fast budget read.
Service footprint
Pros
Cons
Service Areas
7 locations
Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne
Service Areas
5 locations
Melbourne, Geelong, Mornington Peninsula
Best For
Homeowners wanting a nationally trusted brand for residential pressure washing, house wash and roof cleaning packages.
Best For
Melbourne homeowners with rendered walls, heritage surfaces or heritage-listed properties needing specialist soft wash techniques.
Choose Your Country
Select a country to see detailed pressure washing pricing by city
Australia
pressure washing / high-pressure cleaning
From $80/job
12 service types · 4 cities with data
8 regions covered
View Australia prices →
United Kingdom
pressure washing / jet washing
From £50/job
12 service types · 4 cities with data
4 regions covered
View United Kingdom prices →
United States
pressure washing / power washing
From $60/job
12 service types · 4 cities with data
12 regions covered
View United States prices →
Canada
pressure washing / power washing
From C$60/job
12 service types · 4 cities with data
6 regions covered
View Canada prices →
New Zealand
water blasting / pressure washing
From NZ$80/job
12 service types · 4 cities with data
5 regions covered
View New Zealand prices →
Pressure Washing Prices by Service — Australia
National average prices including GST — standard residential jobs
| Service | From | Average | Up to |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗Driveway Cleaning High-pressure clean of concrete or paver driveway — removes oil, tyre marks, moss and grime | $150/job | $280/job | $450/job |
| 🏠House Wash (Full Exterior) Full exterior house wash including walls, eaves and fascia — soft wash or pressure wash depending on surface | $250/job | $420/job | $700/job |
| 🏗️Roof Cleaning Professional roof cleaning to remove lichen, moss and algae — extends roof life and improves appearance | $300/job | $520/job | $800/job |
| 🪵Deck Cleaning Pressure wash timber or composite deck — removes mould, mildew and dirt, prepares surface for oiling or staining | $100/job | $190/job | $300/job |
| 🧱Patio & Paving Wash Clean concrete, pavers or natural stone patio areas — removes staining, moss and weathering | $120/job | $210/job | $350/job |
| 🔲Fence Cleaning Pressure wash timber, Colorbond or concrete fence panels — removes green algae, mould and discolouration | $80/job | $160/job | $250/job |
| 🏊Pool Area Wash Clean pool surrounds, coping and decking — removes algae, calcium deposits and slip hazards | $150/job | $250/job | $400/job |
| 🎨Graffiti Removal Pressure washing and chemical treatment to remove graffiti from walls, fences and surfaces | $200/job | $380/job | $600/job |
| 🏢Commercial Pressure Washing Large-scale pressure washing for commercial properties, car parks, loading docks and industrial surfaces | $400/job | $750/job | $1200/job |
| 💧Gutter Face Cleaning Clean exterior faces of gutters to remove black streaking, oxidation and staining | $80/job | $130/job | $200/job |
| 🛡️Concrete Sealing (After Wash) Apply protective sealer to concrete after pressure washing — reduces future staining and extends clean life | $200/job | $350/job | $550/job |
| 🎾Tennis Court Cleaning High-pressure clean of hard court surfaces — removes moss, algae and embedded dirt for safe play | $250/job | $400/job | $600/job |
Prices include GST. Based on verified contractor data. Last updated March 2026.
Common Pressure Washing Jobs and What They Usually Cost
Real job costs for typical Australian homes — complete project pricing, not just surface rates.
| Job | Typical scope | Typical price | On-site time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driveway clean (standard single car) | High-pressure clean of concrete or paver driveway — removes oil, moss and staining | $150–$350 | 1–2 hours |
| Full house wash (single storey) | Soft wash or pressure wash all exterior walls, eaves and fascia — standard home | $250–$500 | 2–4 hours |
| Roof clean (lichen and moss removal) | Pressure wash or soft wash roof plus biocide treatment — standard home | $300–$700 | 2–4 hours |
| Deck clean and prep for oiling | Pressure wash timber or composite deck to remove mould and dirt — prepares for oil or stain | $100–$300 | 1–2 hours |
| Pre-sale exterior clean (full property) | Complete exterior wash — house, driveway, paths, deck, fences and garage door | $400–$1,200 | Full day |
| Commercial building exterior wash | Full commercial building exterior clean including signage areas and entry surrounds | $400–$1,200 | Full day |
| Pool area and surrounds clean | Pressure wash pool coping, surrounds and adjacent decking — removes algae and calcium | $150–$400 | 1–3 hours |
| Graffiti removal (standard wall) | Pressure wash and chemical treatment to remove graffiti from wall or fence — standard area | $200–$600 | 2–4 hours |
What Affects the Price of Pressure Washing?
Surface area and property size
Total square metres of surface to be cleaned is the primary cost driver. A small driveway takes 1-2 hours; a full-house exterior wash with roof and decking can take a full day. Larger properties reduce the per-square-metre cost but increase the total. Always get a quote based on your specific surface area, not a generic house size estimate.
Surface type and material
Concrete, pavers, timber, Colorbond, render and roof tiles all respond differently to pressure washing. Soft porous surfaces like render and sandstone require low-pressure soft wash techniques to avoid damage. Hard surfaces like concrete driveways and pavers can handle full high-pressure washing. The wrong technique on the wrong surface is costly to repair.
Level of staining and contamination
Light dust and pollen wash off quickly. Heavy moss, lichen, oil stains, tyre marks and graffiti require more time, higher pressure, and often chemical pre-treatment. Heavily contaminated surfaces cost 30-60% more than lightly soiled ones. Ask whether chemical dwell time and post-treatment are included in the quoted price.
Access and height
Single-storey properties are the most affordable to wash. Two-storey and multi-level homes require extension lances, cherry pickers or scaffolding for roof and eave cleaning. Narrow side access, locked gates and steep driveways all add to setup time. Confirm access requirements before accepting a quote.
Water supply and equipment
Operators using your on-site water supply are usually cheaper than those bringing water tanks. Areas with water restrictions may require reclaim water systems or tankered water, adding cost. Hot-water pressure washing equipment costs more to operate than cold-water units but is more effective on oil, grease and some biological staining.
Chemical treatment and sealing
Biocide treatments applied after washing slow moss and algae regrowth significantly. Concrete and paver sealing after washing protects against future staining. Both add cost but extend the time before the next clean is needed. Ask for a combined wash-and-treat quote versus wash-only to compare value.
DIY vs Professional Pressure Washing
Know what you can tackle yourself and what needs a professional operator
| Task | DIY feasibility | Pro price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driveway cleaning | Achievable with a hired or owned pressure washer — hire costs $80–$150/day. Takes 2–4 hours with proper technique. | $150–$450/job | DIY possible |
| Deck cleaning | DIY-feasible with care — use low-pressure setting to avoid raising timber grain. Over-pressure causes permanent surface damage. | $100–$300/job | DIY possible with care |
| House exterior wash | Requires correct pressure settings, chemical selection and safe ladder access for eaves. Poor technique causes paint peeling and surface damage. | $250–$700/job | Professional recommended |
| Roof cleaning | Not recommended — walking on wet roofs is dangerous. High pressure cracks tiles. Biocide application requires correct dilution and dwell time. | $300–$800/job | Professional only |
Which Technique for Which Surface?
| Surface | Method | Frequency | Risk if wrong method | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete (driveway/paths) | High-pressure wash | Every 1–2 years | Low | Driveways, paths, pool surrounds |
| Timber (decks/fences) | Low-medium pressure | Annually | Medium — over-pressure raises grain | Decks, timber fences, pergolas |
| Pavers (concrete/clay) | High-pressure wash | Every 1–2 years | Low — check sand joints after wash | Driveways, patios, paths |
| Colorbond / metal cladding | Low-pressure soft wash | Every 1–2 years | Medium — avoid high pressure on paint | Fences, roofs, wall cladding |
| Roof tiles (terracotta/concrete) | Soft wash + biocide | Every 2–3 years | High — high pressure cracks tiles | Residential and commercial roofs |
What Is Usually Included?
- Pre-inspection walk-around to assess surface type, staining level and access requirements
- Supply of water, cleaning chemicals and pressure washing equipment for the agreed scope
- High-pressure or soft wash cleaning of all quoted surfaces
- Basic rinsing and clearance of loose debris at completion
- Final check to confirm all quoted areas have been completed satisfactorily
What Often Costs Extra?
- Chemical pre-treatment, biocide or moss inhibitor application (often quoted separately)
- Concrete or paver sealing after washing — always a separate line item
- Elevated access equipment such as cherry pickers, scaffold or rope access for two-storey and above
- Hot-water pressure washing equipment surcharge for grease, oil or industrial contamination
- After-hours, weekend or urgent call-out rates for commercial or time-sensitive jobs
What Happens During a Professional Pressure Wash?
1. Site assessment and chemical selection
The operator inspects surfaces, identifies contamination types (moss, oil, graffiti, lichen) and selects the appropriate pressure level and chemical treatment. Skipping this step causes surface damage or poor results.
2. Pre-treatment application
Chemical pre-soaks are applied to heavily stained areas and allowed to dwell. This breaks down biological growth, oil and staining before the main wash, reducing the pressure and time required for effective cleaning.
3. High-pressure or soft wash cleaning
The main wash is carried out with appropriate pressure for the surface type. Hard surfaces like concrete use full high pressure. Soft surfaces like render, painted timber and roof tiles use low-pressure soft wash to prevent damage.
4. Rinse and debris clearance
All cleaned areas are flushed and loose debris removed. Drains and gutters adjacent to washed areas should be cleared at this stage to prevent blockage from displaced moss and dirt.
5. Post-treatment application (if included)
Biocide or moss inhibitor is applied to surfaces where regrowth is a concern. This step extends the clean period significantly and is particularly valuable on roofs, north-facing walls and decks in shaded areas.
6. Sealing and handover
If concrete or paver sealing was quoted, it is applied after the surface dries. The operator walks through the completed areas with the client, confirms scope and advises on maintenance intervals.
Signs Your Property Needs Pressure Washing
Black mould on exterior walls
Black mould on rendered or painted walls is a sign of persistent moisture and organic contamination. Left untreated, it penetrates the surface and requires repainting. Early pressure washing and biocide treatment prevents costly remediation.
Slippery driveways and paths
Green algae and moss on concrete and paving create serious slip hazards. This is particularly dangerous around pools, on steps and on paths used by elderly residents. Annual washing removes the hazard before injuries occur.
Green algae streaks on walls and fences
Green streaking on rendered walls, timber fences and Colorbond cladding indicates established algae growth. This accelerates surface deterioration and reduces property appeal. Annual washing prevents permanent discolouration.
Stained and oil-marked driveways
Oil, tyre marks and rust staining on concrete driveways become harder to remove over time. Fresh stains often clean up with standard pressure washing. Old embedded staining may require chemical treatment and still leave ghost marks.
Mossy or lichen-covered roofs
Moss and lichen on roofs trap moisture against tiles and sheeting, causing premature deterioration and leaks. Roof cleaning every 2-3 years removes growth before it damages the underlying surface and extends roof life significantly.
How to Save on Pressure Washing
- 1
Bundle multiple surfaces into a single booking — most operators charge a call-out fee that makes single-item jobs expensive relative to the full service.
- 2
Get three written quotes that specify the exact surfaces, pressure levels, chemical treatments and whether biocide or sealing is included.
- 3
Book in the off-peak season — autumn and winter bookings are often 10-20% cheaper than peak spring demand periods.
- 4
Ask whether wash-and-treat packages are available — chemical biocide applied after washing significantly extends the clean period and reduces future washing frequency.
- 5
Confirm whether on-site water supply is available — operators who use your tap water usually quote lower than those bringing tanks.
- 6
Group the job with neighbours on the same street — sharing a call-out reduces the per-property cost for nearby homes.
- 7
Schedule concrete sealing immediately after washing — the surfaces are already prepared, and bundling saves on return visit fees.
Local Context That Changes Pressure Washing Quotes
Sydney
Salt air in coastal suburbs accelerates surface contamination, while inner-city pollution creates heavy exterior discolouration. Sandstone and rendered heritage homes need soft wash techniques. Sydney operators typically charge a 15-25% premium over national averages.
Melbourne
High humidity and deciduous leaf fall create ideal mould and moss conditions. Victorian and Edwardian brick homes require careful low-pressure washing. Seasonal demand peaks in spring and autumn — book early or face longer wait times.
Brisbane
Subtropical climate drives year-round algae and mould growth, particularly on fibro and weatherboard homes. Queenslander timber homes benefit from annual washing before repainting. Dry season (May-September) is the optimal washing window.
Perth
Strong sun and coastal salt air cause rapid surface deterioration. Limestone renders require specialist soft wash. Water restrictions apply — confirm your operator is compliant. Pre-paint washing is essential preparation for most exterior repaint jobs.
Best Time of Year to Get Pressure Washing Done
Autumn
Ideal time to wash away summer grime, pollen and salt accumulation before winter rain sets in. Moss and algae are actively growing — biocide treatment now prevents heavy winter growth on roofs and paths.
Winter
Wet weather reveals problem areas like moss on roofs and algae on paths. Most exterior washing is harder in wet conditions but identifying issues now lets you book treatment for early spring when conditions improve.
Spring
Peak demand season. Contractors book quickly — get quotes early for spring availability. Spring washing removes winter moss and algae accumulation and prepares surfaces for outdoor entertaining season.
Summer
Good weather and dry conditions suit pressure washing well. Surfaces dry quickly after treatment. Late summer washing removes pollen and prepares decks and entertaining areas before autumn leaf fall.
Pressure washing costs in Australia vary by service type. Driveway cleaning typically costs $150–$450. A full house wash runs $250–$700. Roof cleaning costs $300–$800. Deck cleaning is $100–$300. A full property pre-sale clean can cost $400–$1,200. Prices vary by city, surface area and contamination level.
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water (1,000–4,000 PSI) to blast dirt, moss and staining from hard surfaces like concrete and pavers. Soft washing uses low pressure (100–500 PSI) combined with chemical treatments to clean delicate surfaces like render, painted timber, roofing tiles and Colorbond cladding without causing damage. The wrong method on the wrong surface can cause cracking, paint peeling or permanent surface damage.
Most concrete and paver driveways benefit from pressure washing every 1–2 years. In humid climates or areas with heavy tree coverage, annual washing prevents moss and algae from establishing. Driveways near roads or in heavily used areas may need washing every 12 months to remove oil and tyre marks. Concrete sealing after washing significantly extends the clean period.
Roof cleaning requires specialist soft wash techniques, not high-pressure washing. High-pressure washing cracks terracotta and concrete roof tiles, strips granules from asphalt shingles and can void roof warranties. Professional roof cleaners use low-pressure soft wash with biocide treatment to remove moss and lichen safely. Walking on wet roofs is extremely hazardous — always use a professional for roof cleaning.
A good pressure washing quote should specify all surfaces to be cleaned, the pressure level and technique for each, whether chemical pre-treatment or biocide is included, and whether concrete sealing is part of the scope or a separate charge. Call-out fees, water supply arrangements, and elevated access costs for two-storey properties should all be clearly itemised. Always compare quotes on the same scope to avoid surprises.
Driveways and concrete paths can be DIY-washed with a hired pressure washer (hire costs $80–$150/day). House exterior washing requires correct chemical selection, appropriate pressure settings for different surfaces, and safe access to eaves. Roof cleaning should not be attempted as a DIY — wet roofs are extremely dangerous and incorrect technique damages roofing materials. For deck cleaning, use low-pressure settings to avoid raising the timber grain.
How We Get These Prices
- • We compare residential pressure washing quotes by surface type, area, chemical treatment, and whether call-out fees, sealing or biocide are included.
- • We normalise pricing to a per-job basis for standard residential tasks and cross-check against completed-job totals from verified operators.
- • We separate driveway, house wash, roof, deck, fence and commercial pricing so published ranges stay comparable across operator quotes.
- • We review city-level differences through labour markets, surface type prevalence, climate conditions and access complexity.
- • We refresh ranges when new operator data shows a consistent market move rather than a one-off promotional price.
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