Cost to Pressure Wash a House in Florida: Real Numbers by Home Size
Every Florida homeowner eventually reaches the point where their once-white stucco has developed gray-green streaks, the north side of the house looks dingy no matter how much it rains, and the neighbors are starting to notice. The question that follows is almost always the same: what's this actually going to cost?
The honest answer is that house washing costs in Florida vary more by condition and construction than by any single formula. A 1,800 square foot single-story stucco home in Coral Springs with moderate algae will cost noticeably less than a 1,800 square foot two-story home in a shaded, humid canal-front lot in Fort Lauderdale. Below, we break down real numbers by home size, story count, and exterior material so you can budget with confidence.
Cost by Home Size
| Home Size | Single Story | Two Story |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1,500 sq ft | $200 – $300 | $275 – $375 |
| 1,500 – 2,500 sq ft | $275 – $400 | $350 – $500 |
| 2,500 – 3,500 sq ft | $375 – $550 | $475 – $650 |
| 3,500+ sq ft | $500+ | $600+ |
These figures are typical ranges for a standard soft wash of exterior walls, soffits, and trim, not roofs or driveways, which are usually priced separately.
Why Two-Story Homes Cost More Than the Extra Square Footage Suggests
It's tempting to assume a two-story home just costs proportionally more, but the jump is usually bigger than the size difference alone. Second-story sections require specialized extension equipment and more careful technique to avoid streaking on windows and overspray onto landscaping below. Crews also move more slowly on ladders and lifts than they do on ground-level walls, which adds labor time even though the chemical cost per square foot stays similar.
Stucco vs. Siding vs. Brick: Different Materials, Different Approaches
Stucco
The vast majority of South Florida homes are stucco, and it's a material that punishes high-pressure blasting — too much pressure can chip the finish or drive water behind the surface. Soft washing is the standard approach here, using lower pressure and an algaecide solution that breaks down organic growth without stripping paint.
Vinyl and Fiber Cement Siding
Less common in South Florida but present in some newer developments, siding tolerates a bit more pressure but still benefits from soft washing to avoid forcing water behind panels, which can lead to mold growth in wall cavities.
Brick and Coral Rock
Older South Florida homes, especially in historic neighborhoods, sometimes feature brick or coral rock accents. These porous materials hold onto algae and mildew stains deeply and often need a longer chemical dwell time, which can add to labor cost even though the surface area is small.
What's Included (and What Isn't) in a Standard House Wash Quote
A typical house washing quote covers the exterior walls, soffits, fascia, and often the front entry area. It usually does not include the roof, driveway, pool cage screens, or windows unless you specifically add them. Bundling a roof cleaning with your house wash is common in South Florida because algae tends to spread from the roofline down the walls during rain, so treating both at once addresses the root cause rather than just the visible symptom.
Hurricane Season and Timing Considerations
Many homeowners schedule their annual house wash in late spring, right before hurricane season ramps up, so the home looks its best heading into storm prep season and any pre-storm inspections. Others prefer post-season cleaning in November to remove the storm debris film and salt residue that accumulates after tropical systems pass through. Either timing works, but avoid scheduling during active storm watches since wet, unstable conditions make ladder work unsafe.
Getting the Most Accurate Quote
Because condition matters as much as size, the most accurate quotes come from either detailed photos of each side of your home or an in-person walk-around. If you're also dealing with a roof that needs attention, ask about combining a roof cleaning with your house wash for one scheduled visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the amount of algae on my house affect the price?
Yes. Homes with heavy black streaking or thick algae mats require additional chemical application and dwell time compared to homes with light surface dirt, which can move the price toward the higher end of the range.
Will pressure washing damage my stucco?
Not when done correctly. The risk comes from using too much pressure or the wrong nozzle angle, which is why reputable companies use soft washing techniques on stucco rather than high-pressure blasting.
Should I pressure wash before or after painting my house?
Always before. Washing removes the dirt, chalking, and mildew that prevent new paint from adhering properly, and painters generally require a clean, dry surface before starting work.
How long does a house wash take?
Most single-story homes take 2–4 hours, while larger or two-story homes can take a full day depending on access and condition.
If you want a real number for your specific home, request a free quote from Power Washing and More! and we'll assess your home's size, material, and condition before giving you a price.
Seasonal Demand and Scheduling Costs
Pricing can also shift slightly with demand. Spring, right before hurricane season begins, is one of the busiest booking windows in South Florida as homeowners tackle exterior maintenance ahead of storm prep, and scheduling a few weeks out rather than requesting last-minute weekend service can sometimes work in your favor. Post-storm season, in late fall, sees another wave of bookings as homeowners remove salt film and storm debris residue that accumulated over the summer months.