Am i worried about the Karcher squad? No, not at all.

First off i want to say that Karcher machines are a good product however they are not a industry standard machine. Stay in your lane Kevin.

Every spring, like clockwork, the "Karcher Kevins" and their fly-by-night start-ups pop up, armed with pressure washers and big promises. They swoop in with low prices that make homeowners’ ears perk up. As someone running DMS, a professional exterior cleaning company specialzing in driveway cleaning, I get asked all the time: are you worried about these "appear out of nowhere" cheap companies? The short answer is no. Let me explain why.

"wake up Kev. It's March"

What the Karcher Squad Offers

These "one day driveway cleaning the next day painting a lamppost" type usually come armed with a cheap "but its petrol so must be good" pressure washer, a battered van and no reputation. They offer quick driveway cleaning at rock-bottom prices, often undercutting established companies like DMS by a mile. Their pitch is simple: “Why pay more when you can get it done cheap and fast?”

For some homeowners, especially those on a tight budget or those who don’t know better, this sounds like a great deal. They promise to blast away dirt, moss, and stains, leaving your driveway looking almost new. On paper, it’s tempting.

The Drawbacks of Lowball Pressure Washing

But here’s the catch. These start-ups often lack proper training and experience. Many of them have learned their craft on YouTube or by doing a few jobs for family and friends. That’s fine for practice, but when you’re dealing with paying customers, it’s a different ball game.

Here’s what usually happens:

• Bodge it and scarper: They rush through jobs blindly blasting everywhere. The result? Half-cleaned driveways, missed spots, or worse, damage to the surface.

• Unprofessional approach: No proper assessment of the driveway’s condition, no tailored cleaning plan, just a blast and pub pressure wash.

• Unsustainable pricing: Their low prices don’t cover proper equipment maintenance, insurance, or quality cleaning supplies. No re- investment into the business. Why? because their pricing system barely gives a good margin. When problems arise, they’re often nowhere to be found.

• Creates more work for professionals: Many of these DIY cleaners leave behind issues that require a professional touch to fix, which means more work for companies like DMS.

  
  

Is There a Market for Them?

Yes, there is a market for these people, but it’s not the same market DMS targets. The gone in a flash company's customers are usually homeowners who want the cheapest option and don’t mind if the job isn’t perfect. They’re often people who don’t fully understand what professional pressure washing entails but it looks easy money on youtube.

At DMS, we focus on customers who value quality, reliability, and long-term results. Our clients want their driveways cleaned properly the first time, with care taken to protect surfaces and landscaping. They understand that a professional service costs more but delivers peace of mind.

Why I’m Not Worried About the Karcher Squad

I get it—everyone needs to start somewhere. But there’s a difference between starting out and offering a service to paying homeowners without the right skills or training. At DMS, we invest in proper training, equipment, and customer service. We don’t just blast dirt; we assess, plan, and execute with care.

The Karcher squad’s low pay system is unsustainable. Many of these start-ups dissolve after a season or two when the reality of running a business hits. They don’t stick around to fix problems or build a reputation. That’s where DMS shines—we’re here for the long haul.

What Sets DMS Apart

• Experience and training: We know the ins and outs of pressure washing, including the right pressure settings, treatments etc for different surfaces.

• Quality equipment: We use professional-grade machines and eco-friendly cleaning solutions.

• Customer care: We communicate clearly, provide detailed quotes, and follow up to ensure satisfaction.

• Long-term results: Our cleaning methods protect your driveway and extend its life, saving you money in the long run.

  
  

When DIY Isn’t Enough

I often hear from customers who tried a DIY approach or hired one of these start-ups and ended up with patchy results or damage. Pressure washing isn’t just about blasting water; it’s about knowing how to treat different surfaces and stains without causing harm.

If you’re tempted to go DIY or hire the cheapest option, remember this: a botched job can cost you more in repairs and re-cleaning. Sometimes, saving a few pounds upfront leads to a bigger bill later.

Final Thoughts on the Karcher Squad

The Karcher Kevins and their start-ups will keep appearing every season, offering low prices and quick fixes. They fill a niche for budget-conscious customers who don’t mind taking a risk. But for those who want quality, reliability, and a job done right, companies like DMS remain the best choice.

If you want your driveway cleaned properly, with care and professionalism, don’t be tempted by the bargain basement offers. Invest in a service that lasts and protects your property. After all, your driveway deserves more than a quick spray and a scarper.

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