how much does it cost to start up a professional pressure washing business? Simple answer is A LOT !

Starting a professional pressure washing business is not as cheap as some might think. I speak from experience. If you want to deliver the quality and results customers expect, you need to invest in the right equipment, training, and support. This post breaks down the main costs involved in setting up a pressure washing company that can handle driveway cleaning and other demanding jobs professionally.

Professional pressure washer machine with accessories ready for driveway cleaning

Essential Equipment Costs

The heart of any pressure washing business is the machine. For professional results, a reliable and powerful machine is a must. For example, DMS use the Alpha A2 from PWS which costs around £2,500. It delivers 21 liters per minute at 200 bar pressure, which is ideal for tough cleaning jobs like driveways and patios.

Along with the main machine, DMS use several accessories:

• 20" Whirlaway flat surface cleaner – £250

This tool speeds up cleaning large flat areas like driveways and patios, giving a consistent finish.

• X Jet chemical applicator – £180

Applying cleaning chemicals evenly is crucial for effective stain removal.

• 50-meter high-pressure hose – £250

A long hose lets you reach distant areas without moving the machine constantly.

• Nozzles and lances – £200

Different nozzles allow you to adjust water pressure and spray patterns for various surfaces.

• Stunner ST trigger gun – £200

These allow kew fittings which means you can switch between lances and fsc quickly.

• Buffer tank – £100

A must to keep up with water flow to machine.

• Spares and sundries (brushes, buckets, nozzles, chemicals, low-pressure hose, etc.) – £200

These small items add up but are essential for smooth operations.

Altogether, the equipment and accessories add up to around £3,880. This is the bare minimum DMS use to offer professional pressure washing services that meet our customer expectations. Over time, with upgrades etc this cost has steadily increased.

Vehicle and Mobility

A van is essential for transporting your equipment and reaching clients. A reliable used van can cost about £6,000. It needs enough space for the machine, accessories, and supplies. Without a proper vehicle, you limit your ability to take on jobs efficiently.

Insurance, Training, and Advertising

Running a pressure washing business involves risks. Insurance protects you from liability and equipment damage. Training ensures you use the equipment safely and effectively, which also improves results. Advertising helps you attract customers in a competitive market.

Budgeting around £1,000 for these combined costs is optimistic but possible for a start-up. This includes:

• Public liability insurance

• Health and safety training

• Basic light marketing materials and local advertising

  
  

Why Cutting Corners Can Cost You More

Pressure washing might look simple, but the quality of your equipment, training and experience directly affects your results. Buying cheap machines or skipping training often leads to poor cleaning, equipment breakdowns, and unhappy customers. The phrase “buy cheap, buy twice” applies strongly here.

Investing in quality gear and proper setup means you can deliver consistent driveway cleaning and other services that build your reputation and customer base.

Flat surface cleaner removing dirt from a patio with professional pressure washing

Summary of Typical Start-Up Costs

| Item | Approximate Cost (£) |

|-------------------------------|---------------------|

| Alpha A2 Pressure Washer | 2,500 |

| 20" Whirlaway Surface Cleaner | 250 |

| X Jet Chemical Applicator | 180 |

| 50m High-Pressure Hose | 250 |

| Nozzles and Lances | 200 |

| Two Stunner ST Trigger Guns | 200 |

| Buffer Tank | 100 |

| Spares and Sundries | 200 |

| Van | 6,000 |

| Insurance, Training, Advertising| 1,000 |

| Total | 11,880 |

Final Thoughts

Setting up a professional pressure washing business requires a significant investment, typically around £12,000 or more. This covers the essential equipment, vehicle, and operational costs needed to deliver high-quality driveway cleaning and other services.

DMS are a local, trusted and established driveway cleaning, pressure washing and exterior cleaning company serving local areas within the West Midland. https://www.dms1565.co.uk

As a purchaser and user of their equipment, DMS highly recommend Precious Washers Stafford for all of your exterior cleaning needs. https://pwsce.co.uk/