How to Prepare Your Home Before a Pressure Washing Appointment

The Day Before Your Appointment

Move Vehicles Out of the Driveway

This is the most important prep step. Make sure all vehicles are moved out of the driveway the evening before or the morning of your appointment. Contractors need full access to the driveway surface, and overspray from cleaning solutions can temporarily stain vehicle paint if cars are left nearby.

Clear the Work Areas

Walk the areas being cleaned and remove any items that should not get wet: welcome mats and outdoor rugs, potted plants near the work area (move them 10+ feet away), outdoor furniture cushions and pillows, garden tools, toys, and sports equipment, and any electrical equipment or extension cords on the ground.

Inform Your Contractor About Special Surfaces

If you have stamped, stained, or decorative concrete; recently sealed driveway or patio (within 1 year); natural stone surfaces; older painted wood surfaces; or delicate plantings near the work area — mention these when you confirm the appointment. This allows the contractor to bring appropriate equipment and adjust technique for sensitive areas.

Morning of the Appointment

Close every window and exterior door in the areas being cleaned, including sliding glass doors — soft washing produces fine mist that can drift inside. Cover exterior outlets near work areas with plastic bags and tape. Thoroughly wet all plants within 10 feet of the house with your garden hose before the contractor arrives, which dilutes any cleaning solution overspray that contacts plants. Know where your main outdoor hose bib is and confirm it's accessible.

During the Cleaning

Do a quick walkthrough with your contractor before they start. Stay inside or away from the work area during cleaning. Keep pets inside — cleaning solutions are generally pet-safe once dried but pets should not be around during application. Don't run sprinklers while work is in progress.

After the Job is Complete

Inspect the work with your contractor present before they leave. Allow surfaces to dry before driving on the driveway or walking on the patio — concrete typically dries in 1-2 hours. Wait 24-48 hours before moving potted plants back against the house. Take before-and-after photos for HOA documentation or insurance records if relevant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving cars in the driveway. The most common issue contractors encounter.
• Forgetting to close windows. Soft washing mist can drift several feet and cause interior moisture damage.
• Trying to pre-wash surfaces yourself. Contractors prefer dry surfaces so they can see actual buildup and apply solutions at the correct concentration.
• Scheduling just before it rains. Surfaces need time to dry. Reschedule if rain is forecast within 6 hours.
• Leaving garden hose connections inaccessible. If your hose bib is behind a locked gate or buried under equipment, tell your contractor before they arrive.