Determining the Cost of Soft Washing: Key Factors and Guidelines

The cost of a soft washing job depends on factors such as job size, surface type, complexity, and materials and labor costs.

The amount you should charge for soft washing depends on a number of factors, including the size of the job, the type of surface being cleaned, the complexity of the job, and the cost of materials and labor. There is no set formula for determining the cost of a soft washing job, as pricing will vary based on your location, the local market, and other factors.


Here are some general guidelines for pricing a soft washing job:


  • Determine the size of the job: Measure the square footage of the surface that needs to be cleaned and use this number to estimate the amount of materials and labor required for the job. Google earth can be a great tool for this. 
  • Consider the complexity of the job: If the job is more complex, with a lot of high, hard-to-reach areas, hills, complex architecture, for example, you may need to charge more to cover the additional time and effort required to complete the job.
  • Alternative equipment rental costs: If the project (without a drone) would otherwise require purchase or rental of lifts, cranes or other equipment needed to access hard-to-reach areas, factor this into your price. 
  • Factor in your overhead costs: Make sure to include all of your overhead costs, such as rent, insurance, utilities, and other expenses, when determining your hourly rate.
  • Determine your hourly rate: Once you have estimated the total cost of the job, divide this number by the estimated number of hours required to complete the job. This will give you your hourly rate, which you can then use to price the job.
  • Consider the local market: Research what other soft washing companies in your area are charging for similar jobs to ensure that your prices are competitive.

It's important to note that these are just general guidelines, and that the best way to determine the cost of a soft washing job is to consult with a professional or conduct thorough research to ensure that you are pricing your jobs correctly. Additionally, it may be helpful to keep detailed records of your expenses and your hours worked for each job, as this information can be used to refine your pricing strategies over time.


In general, soft washing companies may charge anywhere from $0.20 to $0.50 per square foot, but prices can be higher or lower depending on the specific requirements of the job. It's important to note that pricing per square foot is just one way to determine the cost of a soft washing job, and that it may not always be the most accurate or effective way to price a job. 


Some companies may prefer to price jobs based on the total estimated cost of the job, including the cost of materials and labor, while others may prefer to price jobs based on their hourly rate.

It's also worth noting that the price per square foot can vary depending on the type of surface being cleaned, with some surfaces, such as stucco or wood, requiring more specialized equipment and materials and therefore costing more. Additionally, the cost per square foot may be higher in urban areas where labor and material costs are typically higher.


Ultimately, the best way to determine the cost of a soft washing job is to conduct thorough research, consult with a professional, and consider all of the factors involved, including the size of the job, the type of surface being cleaned, and the local market.