Pressure Washing in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia's mix of brick, stone, concrete and wood means pressure washing has to be done with care. Old brick and lime mortar in rowhouses are soft and can be damaged by high pressure, and marble or stone front steps can be etched or chipped. Concrete sidewalks, which property owners are responsible for maintaining in the city, collect grime, gum and stains from foot traffic. Wood and composite decks, roof decks and fences darken with mildew in damp summers and shaded backyards. In the suburbs, vinyl siding and patios develop green algae on their north sides.
We match the method to the surface. On concrete sidewalks and driveways we use higher pressure and surface cleaners for an even finish. On brick, stone and older masonry we use low pressure and appropriate cleaners, a soft-wash approach that removes dirt and organic growth without blasting mortar out of the joints. On wood decks and fences we use moderate pressure to clean without raising the grain or gouging. We protect plants, windows and doors, control runoff where possible, and rinse the area thoroughly. If a surface is too fragile for washing, we'll tell you.
What this covers
- Front step and stoop cleaning
- Sidewalk and driveway washing
- Soft-washing brick and stone
- Deck, roof deck and porch cleaning
- Fence and gate cleaning
- Vinyl siding and trim washing
- Patio and walkway cleaning
- Mildew and algae removal
How a pressure washing visit usually goes
Check the Surface
We identify the material and condition, look for loose mortar, damaged wood or fragile finishes, and choose the right pressure and cleaner.
Protect the Area
We cover plants, protect windows and doors, and plan for runoff and foot traffic on the sidewalk.
Clean the Surface
We wash methodically, using surface cleaners on concrete and low-pressure soft-washing on masonry and siding.
Rinse and Review
We rinse thoroughly, check for missed spots, and walk the area with you.
Timing matters in Philadelphia. Spring is the best time to clean decks and patios after winter, and fall is good for clearing mildew before cold weather sets in. Winter washing is limited by freezing temperatures, since water left in cracks can freeze and damage concrete or masonry. On rowhouse blocks, we keep the sidewalk passable, rinse carefully to avoid spraying neighbors' steps or windows, and work efficiently so the street isn't blocked. On roof decks, we take care with water around membranes, drains and hatches. Shaded rear yards are where we see the heaviest growth. A narrow rowhouse yard between two walls can stay damp for days after rain, and the concrete, fence boards and back steps turn green and slippery. Cleaning those surfaces once or twice a year keeps them safer underfoot and slows the decay of wood fences and steps.
What shapes the price in Philadelphia
Pressure washing costs depend on the size of the area, the surface type and the amount of buildup. A front step and sidewalk are quick, while large decks, long driveways or multi-story siding take more time. Soft-washing brick and stone requires extra care. Heavy mildew, algae or stains may need pretreatment. Access also matters: roof decks reachable only through the house or yards with no hose bib add setup time. Combining several surfaces into one visit is more efficient. If you'd like a sealer applied to a freshly cleaned deck or patio, that's a separate step on another day once the surface is fully dry, and we'll quote it separately so you can decide.
Neighbors often ask
Can you pressure wash my brick rowhouse front?
Yes, but carefully. Old brick and mortar can be damaged by high pressure, which can erode mortar joints and the brick face. We use low pressure and suitable cleaners to remove grime without harming the masonry. If mortar is already crumbling, we'll recommend repointing by a mason before washing.
Will pressure washing damage my deck?
Not if done properly. We use moderate pressure and the right nozzle for wood or composite, cleaning without splintering or gouging. After washing, wood decks need to dry before any stain or sealer is applied.
Can you remove gum and stains from the sidewalk in front of my house?
We can remove most gum, grime and many stains using surface cleaners and appropriate treatments. Some old oil or rust stains may lighten but not disappear completely. We'll tell you what to expect before we start.
Do you clean roof decks?
Yes. Many Fishtown, Northern Liberties and Graduate Hospital homes have roof decks that collect dirt and mildew. We clean decking and railings carefully, protecting the roof membrane, drains and nearby surfaces from excess water or pressure.
Do I need to be home while you wash?
Not usually, as long as we have access to an outdoor water spigot and the areas to be cleaned. We'll ask you to close windows and move cars, bikes or planters beforehand, and we'll send photos when the work is done.
Can you clean the white marble steps on my rowhouse?
Yes, gently. Marble is soft and reacts badly to acids and high pressure, which can etch the surface and wear away detail on old treads. We use low pressure, warm water and cleaners that are safe for marble, working slowly on stains rather than blasting them. Deep rust or old paint stains may only partly lift, and we'll tell you honestly what to expect before we begin.
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Door Repair & Adjustment →Pressure Washing around Philadelphia
Pressure Washing is one of 14 jobs our Philadelphia handyman crew handles, in Philadelphia and in nearby communities:
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