How Much Does Pressure Cleaning Cost in Australia 2025 Guide

Dirty driveways, stained patios, and mouldy exterior walls can quickly bring down the look of your property. One of the fastest and most effective ways to restore surfaces is with pressure cleaning. But before you book a service, the big question is: how much does pressure cleaning cost in Australia in 2025?

The short answer is that pressure cleaning prices range from $120 to $165 per hour. Many pressure cleaning services also charge by area, with washing cost rates between $3 and $5 per square metre. The overall cost will vary depending on the size of the job, the surface type, and the complexity of the cleaning process. Average pressure washing jobs in Australia cost between $150 and $500 for most residential jobs. Many pressure cleaning companies have a minimum charge, often around $150, for smaller jobs.

This guide covers everything you need to know about pressure washing cost, including residential pressure cleaning, commercial pressure cleaning, factors that influence pricing, and why hiring a professional pressure cleaner is often the most cost effective choice.

Average Pressure Cleaning Cost in 2025

The cost of pressure washing is usually quoted either per hour or per square metre.

• Per hour: $120 – $165
• Per square metre: $3 – $5
• Minimum call-out fee: Usually $150

Some service providers charge a flat cleaning cost for small jobs, while others prefer to measure the area. A few pressure washing companies offer sliding scales, where larger jobs are cheaper per square metre because set-up and travel time are spread out across more work. Larger jobs often result in lower rates per square meter compared to smaller jobs due to economies of scale.

Example Pressure Cleaning Prices by Job

Here are common pressure cleaning prices in Australia for 2025:

• Small to medium driveway cleaning: $190 – $350
• Large driveway cleaning: $300 – $700
• Exterior walls of a three-bedroom home: $300 – $400 (average cost for a standard one-story house is around $350)
• Patios and pool decks: $190 – $350
• Roof cleaning (pitched roof): $500+ due to complexity and safety needs
• Graffiti removal: $300 – $600 depending on wall size and paint type

When calculating how much does pressure cleaning cost, remember that different surfaces and delicate materials like timber or soft render require low pressure or hot water cleaning. These cleaning techniques take longer, which increases the overall cost.

Residential vs Commercial Pressure Cleaning

Residential Pressure Cleaning

For homes, residential pressure cleaning is often focused on:

• Driveway cleaning to remove oil stains and tyre marks (usually involves scrubbing or soaking to remove oil stains before pressure washing). Driveways are made up of asphalt, concrete, or pavers, all of which can withstand higher pressure levels.
• Patio and pool area cleaning to lift grime buildup and moss
• Exterior walls for a refreshed look before sale or inspection
• Roof cleaning for safety, presentation, and maintenance

The cleaning cost for residential work usually falls within $3–$5 per square metre, with professional services completing an average home exterior in 2–4 hours.

Commercial Pressure Cleaning

Commercial pressure cleaning covers offices, warehouses, carparks, and retail spaces. These larger jobs often use professional pressure washers with higher output, hot water systems, and advanced cleaning solutions.

Because of scale and insurance requirements, commercial pressure cleaning prices are often at the higher end of the range. Companies may also charge per square foot when quoting for large commercial contracts.

Why Hire a Professional Pressure Washing Company?

It may be tempting to hire a small pressure washer from a hardware store and attempt DIY cleaning. However, there are key reasons why professional services are usually the better option:

1. Correct pressure settings: Surfaces require different levels of force. Soft materials like timber or painted cladding need low pressure, while concrete can withstand high pressure washing. Using the wrong cleaning method risks surface damage.
2. Stubborn stains removal: A professional pressure washing company uses advanced detergents and cleaning solutions to lift oil stains, grease, and mould more effectively.
3. Time saving: DIY jobs are often time consuming, especially without the right equipment quality. A pro can complete in one hour what may take you several.
4. Professional cleaners have insurance: If damage occurs during the cleaning process, you are covered.
5. Maintain cleanliness long term: Many pros offer sealing or protective coatings after pressure washing to keep exterior surfaces cleaner for longer.
6. Healthier environment: Professional cleaners can eliminate health hazards like mould and mildew, creating a healthier environment for your family.
7. Environmental safety: Cleaning agents can cause runoff issues, and professionals know how to use them to avoid damaging surrounding areas.

“A lot of homeowners underestimate how much damage the wrong pressure settings can cause. Using a professional isn’t just about saving time—it’s about making sure the job is done safely and effectively.”

Jehan, West Coast Exterior Pros

The Dangers of DIY Pressure Washing

Trying to cut down the cost of pressure washing with a DIY approach can backfire:

• Damage to surfaces: Too much force can etch concrete, crack pavers, or strip paint from exterior walls.
• Harsh chemicals: Using the wrong detergent may burn your lawn or harm outdoor furniture.
• Safety risks: Roof or ladder cleaning without training is dangerous.
• Lower-quality results: Cheap hire machines lack the power of professional pressure washers and may leave behind stains.

For anything beyond light cleaning, hiring a professional pressure cleaner is far more cost effective in the long run.

Factors That Influence Pressure Cleaning Cost

The cleaning cost will vary depending on several factors:

1. Surface type: Different surfaces like concrete, pavers, timber, or painted walls require unique cleaning techniques and equipment.
2. Condition of the surface: Heavily stained areas with stubborn stains or heavy grime buildup take longer and need stronger cleaning solutions. Old and neglected surfaces often require more specialized cleaning and multiple passes to achieve desired results.
3. Size of the area: Larger surfaces reduce the per square metre rate but increase total overall cost.
4. Accessibility: Multi-storey buildings, pitched roofs, or hard-to-reach areas extend setup and cleaning time.
5. Location: Pressure washing cost may be higher in metropolitan areas than in regional towns.
6. Additional services: Sealing or protective coatings after power washing add to the overall cost.

What Surfaces Can Be Pressure Washed?

Professional pressure washing services can clean most hard exterior surfaces, including:

• Driveways and pathways (ideal for lifting tyre marks and oil stains)
• Exterior walls (with care for delicate materials)
• Patios and outdoor furniture areas
• Roofs (best handled by professional pressure cleaners for safety)
• Decking (requires low pressure and gentle cleaning method)
• Commercial carparks or warehouse floors
• Graffiti removal from brick and concrete walls
• Other hard surfaces: Wherever there's a hard surface like concrete or metal, you'll be able to clean it using a pressure washer.

Equipment Quality and Cleaning Techniques

The difference between DIY and professional pressure washing often comes down to equipment quality and expertise in cleaning techniques.

• Professional pressure washers use high-grade machines with adjustable PSI.
• Hot water systems are used for oil stains and grease.
• Low pressure or soft washing is used for timber, render, or delicate materials.
• Cleaning contractors carry eco-friendly cleaning solutions to avoid damage to soil or plants.
• Industrial-grade equipment: Professional pressure cleaning typically involves the use of industrial-grade equipment, which can affect the pricing.

By choosing the right cleaning method, professionals ensure surfaces are restored without harm.

Preparing for a High Pressure Cleaning Service

Before your scheduled high pressure cleaning service, prepare your home by:

• Removing vehicles, outdoor furniture, and toys from work areas.
• Covering doors and windows to prevent splashback.
• Clearing pets and children from the site.
• Discussing with your service provider whether waste water and debris are included in the overall cost.

How to Hire the Right Pressure Cleaning Service Provider

When comparing pressure cleaning companies, ask the following:

• Do you have valid insurance?
• Can you provide a written quote with clear pressure cleaning prices?
• Do you have references or reviews with a strong average rating?
• Do you use eco-friendly cleaning solutions?
• What experience do you have with my surface type?

Always request at least three quotes to compare prices. This ensures you get the best balance of cost, service quality, and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does pressure cleaning cost in Australia?

Rates are $120 to $165 per hour, or $3 to $5 per square metre, with the overall cost depending on surface type and job size.

What is the cost of pressure washing a driveway?

Driveway cleaning typically costs $190 to $700 depending on size, condition, and stains.

What surfaces require low pressure?

Timber, cladding, and other soft materials require low pressure to avoid damage.

Can graffiti be removed with pressure cleaning?

Yes. Graffiti removal is common but requires careful cleaning solutions and correct pressure settings to protect the wall.

How often should I book regular pressure washing?

Most homes benefit from regular pressure washing every 12 to 24 months to maintain cleanliness and prevent long-term grime buildup.

Conclusion

In 2025, pressure cleaning cost in Australia ranges from $120 to $165 per hour or $3 to $5 per square metre. The cleaning cost depends on several factors, including job size, surface type, stains, and accessibility.

While DIY power washing may appear cheaper, the risks of damage and the time consuming nature of the task often outweigh the savings. Hiring a professional pressure washing service ensures proper cleaning techniques, correct pressure settings, and long-lasting results.

Whether you need residential pressure cleaning for your home or commercial pressure cleaning for a business property, using Trade Heroes makes it easy to compare prices, find trusted professional pressure cleaners, and book reliable cleaning contractors for your next job.