How Much Does It Cost to Pressure Wash a Deck in 2025?
Pressure washing a deck costs an average of $150
It costs an average of $150 to pressure wash a deck.
Costs range from $100 for a small deck in good condition to $500 for a large deck needing extra care.
The cost of pressure washing a deck depends on factors such as material, size, repairs, labor, and add-on services.
Regular pressure washing maintains your deck's appearance and prolongs its lifespan.
Pressure washing is essential before staining or painting your deck.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
It costs $150 to pressure wash a deck on average, with most homeowners spending between $100 and $250. How often you clean your deck—whether you opt for pressure washing (cold high-pressure water) or power washing (heated high-pressure water)—is up to you. However, an annual washing is best. The longer you leave it between cleans, the more it'll cost to clean off the built-up soiling from wildlife, dirt, grease, and grime. You'll also need to pressure wash your deck before you stain or paint it.
Cost Factors for Pressure Washing a Deck
The total cost of pressure washing your deck depends on several factors, such as the size of your deck, labor costs, and any required accessories. Here’s how the main cost factors impact your final price.
Deck Size
On average, pressure washing a deck costs between $0.30 and $0.35 per square foot or between $100 and $350 in total. You may pay substantially more if your deck is in particularly subpar condition or requires hand-brushing. The table below assumes a deck in average condition with moderate dirt buildup that needs a straightforward power wash.
| Deck Size (Sq. Ft.) | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 300 | $100 |
| 700 | $250 |
| 1,000 | $350 |
Labor
To get your deck clean, you can hire a handyperson or a local pressure washing service for $50 to $100 per hour. Some pros charge by the hour, while others offer a flat rate based on your deck's size and condition. For example, cleaning a 500-square-foot deck with a few stubborn spots might take up to two hours and require a bit more elbow grease.
Additional Services
Many people bundle pressure washing with other services. Here are some common add-on tasks and their costs.
| Add-On Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Staining | $850 |
| Sealing | $900 |
| Repairs | $2,000 |
Staining your deck protects the materials and enhances its appearance. Sealing your deck helps protect it from the elements, preventing moisture damage and extending its lifespan. Since a clean surface is needed before staining and sealing, combining these services with pressure washing is a smart move.
If your deck has cracks, splinters, or other damage, it's best to address these issues before pressure washing. High-pressure water can make existing problems worse. The average cost to repair a deck is $2,000, but minor fixes may cost less, especially if you're handy and can tackle small repairs yourself.
Cost by Deck Material
Just like the cost of pressure washing a house, siding, or roof, the material your deck is made of affects the cost of pressure washing. Some materials are delicate and require extra care, while others can handle a thorough blasting.
| Deck Material | Average Cost (per 300 Sq. Ft.) |
|---|---|
| Metal | $100 |
| Composite | $125 |
| Wood | $150 |
Metal
Pressure washing a 300-square-foot metal deck typically costs around $100. Metal decks, usually made of aluminum, can handle high-pressure washing and are quick and easy to clean because dirt and grime don’t stick to them much. Pros might use a detergent to restore the surface and make it shine.
Wood
Pressure washing a wood deck typically costs $125 for 300 square feet. Wood is a natural, porous material, so unless you have a hard exotic wood like tigerwood, your deck may be more fragile. Using a pressure washer incorrectly can strip away paint and sealant or even damage the wood itself. That’s why it takes a professional more time to safely pressure wash a wooden deck, leading to slightly higher costs. If you're planning to paint or stain your deck, a pro can pressure wash it to remove old paint or stain without harming the wood. This prepares the surface for a fresh application.
Composite
It costs around $150 to pressure wash a 300-square-foot composite deck. Composite decks can't handle high-pressure washing and should be washed at 1,500 PSI or lower. They often need to be gently scrubbed during the cleaning process because pressure washing alone might not be enough to fully clean them.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pressure Washing Professional
If you're confident in your ability to pressure wash a deck and already have the equipment, you could save some money by doing it yourself. However, if you don't own a pressure washer, you'll need to rent one for about $35 to $175 per day or buy one for $100 to $1,000.
Considering that hiring a pro usually costs between $100 and $200, it might be worth letting the experts handle it. Hiring a professional saves you the hassle of renting equipment and reduces the risk of damaging your deck by using too much pressure or the wrong technique. Plus, professionals have the experience to get the job done efficiently, so you can enjoy your clean deck sooner without the extra work.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
To avoid damaging the surface of wood and composite decks, use a pressure washer with a maximum of 1,300 PSI. For metal or decks made of extra hard surfaces, you can go up to 2,300 PSI. Staying within these limits helps remove stubborn dirt and stains without harming your deck.
Yes, it's a good idea to pressure wash your deck before staining it. A thorough cleaning by a pressure washing professional removes dirt, mildew, and old paint or stain, ensuring the new stain adheres properly and looks great. A clean deck also means the stain will last longer and better protect your deck.
Determining whether to use soap when pressure washing your deck depends on the extent of soiling. For lightly soiled decks, water alone may suffice; however, heavy dirt and oily residues demand a specialized, deck-safe detergent. Using the right soap enhances the cleaning process by breaking down stubborn grime while safeguarding the deck’s surface.
The optimal time to pressure wash your deck is in the spring or fall. In spring, cleaning eliminates winter mold and accumulated dirt, while in fall, it removes greasy spills before the cold sets in. Scheduling cleaning during these periods not only enhances your deck’s appearance but also preserves its integrity and reduces long-term maintenance costs.
If your deck was recently stained or sealed, you do not need to apply a new sealant immediately. However, if several years have passed since the last resealing, pressure washing effectively removes old sealant and prepares the surface for a fresh coat. Resealing protects against moisture intrusion and prolongs the deck’s lifespan, ensuring a durable and even finish.
Get our Angi-powered app
