How to Pressure Wash Your House: Complete Indiana Guide

If you own a home in Indiana, you already know what the weather can do to your property's exterior. Between the humid summers, heavy spring rains, freezing winters, and the constant cycle of pollen, mold, and mildew, the outside of your house takes a beating year after year. Dirt, algae, and grime gradually build up on your siding, driveway, roof, and deck, making your home look older and more worn than it actually is. For homeowners searching for reliable pressure washing in Evansville and surrounding areas, understanding how professional exterior cleaning works is the first step toward protecting your investment and restoring your home's curb appeal.

Pressure washing is one of the most effective and affordable ways to maintain the appearance and structural integrity of your home. Whether you are preparing to sell, getting ready for a family gathering, or simply want your property to look its best, a thorough pressure washing can make a dramatic difference in just a few hours. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything Indiana homeowners need to know about pressure washing, from choosing the right technique for each surface to understanding costs, timing, and why hiring a professional often makes more sense than doing it yourself. At Thompson's Pressure Washing, we have helped hundreds of homeowners across the Tri-State area restore their properties, and we are sharing our expertise to help you make the best decision for your home.

What Is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing, sometimes called power washing, is the process of using a high-pressure stream of water to remove dirt, mold, mildew, algae, stains, and other contaminants from exterior surfaces. The equipment uses a motorized pump to increase water pressure far beyond what a standard garden hose can produce, typically delivering water at 1,500 to 4,000 pounds per square inch (PSI). This concentrated force is what makes pressure washing so effective at stripping away years of buildup and revealing the clean surface underneath.

While the terms pressure washing and power washing are often used interchangeably, there is a technical difference. Power washing uses heated water, which can be particularly effective for removing grease, oil stains, and stubborn grime from surfaces like garage floors and commercial properties. Standard pressure washing uses unheated water at high pressure and is the more common method for residential exterior cleaning.

There is a third technique that is equally important for homeowners to understand: soft washing. Soft washing uses significantly lower water pressure, typically under 1,000 PSI, combined with specialized biodegradable cleaning solutions to safely clean delicate surfaces. Soft washing is the preferred method for vinyl siding, painted surfaces, roofing shingles, and other materials that could be damaged by high-pressure water. Professional pressure washing companies like Thompson's use a combination of both methods, selecting the right approach for each surface on your property to deliver the best results without any risk of damage.

Understanding these differences matters because using the wrong technique on the wrong surface is one of the most common and costly mistakes homeowners make. Blasting a high-pressure stream at vinyl siding can force water behind the panels and into your walls. Using too much pressure on a roof can strip away protective granules from shingles. A knowledgeable professional will always assess each surface and choose the method that cleans effectively while protecting your property.

Benefits of Professional House Washing

Regular pressure washing delivers far more than just cosmetic improvements. When performed by a trained professional using the right equipment and techniques, house washing provides a wide range of benefits that protect your home, your health, and your wallet. Here are the top reasons Indiana homeowners invest in professional exterior cleaning services:

• Dramatically Improved Curb Appeal. Nothing transforms the look of a home faster than a professional pressure washing. Years of accumulated dirt, algae streaks, and dark staining disappear in hours, making your home look fresh, clean, and well maintained. Whether you are hosting a neighborhood event or simply enjoying the view from your driveway, a clean exterior makes a powerful impression.
• Increased Home Value. Real estate professionals consistently report that a clean exterior can increase a home's perceived value by 5 to 10 percent. If you are planning to sell your home in Evansville, Newburgh, or anywhere in the Tri-State area, pressure washing is one of the highest return-on-investment improvements you can make before listing.
• Prevention of Costly Damage. Mold, mildew, and algae are not just unsightly. They actively break down building materials over time. Algae feeds on limestone-based materials in roofing and siding. Mold can penetrate porous surfaces and cause structural deterioration. Regular pressure washing removes these organisms before they cause permanent damage, saving you thousands in future repair costs.
• Removal of Allergens and Pollutants. Indiana's spring pollen season coats every outdoor surface in a thick yellow-green layer. Add mold spores, dust, and pollution to the mix, and the exterior of your home becomes a reservoir of allergens that can affect indoor air quality. Pressure washing removes these contaminants, creating a healthier environment for your family, especially those with allergies or respiratory conditions.
• Preparation for Painting and Staining. If you are planning to paint your home's exterior or stain a deck or fence, pressure washing is an essential first step. Paint and stain adhere best to clean surfaces free of dirt, mildew, and peeling old coatings. A professional cleaning before painting can significantly extend the life of your new paint job.
• Extended Siding Lifespan. Whether your home has vinyl, wood, brick, or fiber cement siding, regular cleaning prevents the buildup of damaging contaminants and helps your siding last its full expected lifespan. Replacing siding is one of the most expensive exterior repairs a homeowner can face. Annual pressure washing is a fraction of that cost and helps you avoid it altogether.
• Prevention of Pest Infestations. Dirty, mold-covered exteriors can attract insects and pests that feed on organic matter. Spider webs, wasp nests, and insect colonies often establish themselves in areas where grime has been allowed to accumulate. Pressure washing removes these attractants and the nests themselves, helping keep pests away from your home.
• Significant Time Savings. Attempting to scrub your home's exterior by hand would take an entire weekend or longer, and the results would not come close to what professional equipment can achieve in a few hours. Hiring a professional saves you time, effort, and the frustration of trying to clean hard-to-reach areas with inadequate equipment.

Best Time to Pressure Wash in Indiana

Indiana's four-season climate plays a significant role in determining the best time to pressure wash your home. Each season brings different conditions that affect both the need for cleaning and the effectiveness of the process. Here is a season-by-season breakdown to help you plan your exterior cleaning schedule:

Spring: The Ideal Time

Spring is widely considered the best time to pressure wash your home in Indiana. After a long winter of ice, snow, road salt splash, and general weathering, your home's exterior is typically at its dirtiest. Add the arrival of pollen season in March and April, and every outdoor surface gets coated in a layer of yellow-green dust. A spring pressure washing removes all of this buildup and gives your home a fresh start for the warmer months ahead. Temperatures are generally mild enough for effective cleaning, and the longer daylight hours provide ample time to complete the job. Most homeowners in the Princeton and Mt. Vernon areas schedule their annual cleaning between late March and May.

Summer: Still a Great Option

Summer works well for pressure washing, particularly early summer before the most intense heat and humidity arrive. Indiana summers are warm and humid, which accelerates the growth of mold, mildew, and algae on shaded surfaces. If you missed your spring cleaning, a summer pressure washing will still deliver excellent results. The main consideration is that extremely hot surfaces can cause cleaning solutions to dry too quickly, reducing their effectiveness. Professional crews work early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid this issue.

Fall: Preparation for Winter

Fall is another good window for pressure washing, especially for homeowners who want to prepare their property for winter. Cleaning your home in September or October removes the summer's accumulation of dirt, pollen, and organic matter before the cold weather sets in. It is also an excellent time to clean gutters before falling leaves clog them. A fall cleaning ensures your home goes into winter in the best possible condition, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth under snow and ice.

Winter: Best to Avoid

Winter is not recommended for pressure washing in Indiana. When temperatures drop below freezing, water can freeze on surfaces and create hazardous ice conditions. Frozen water can also seep into cracks in concrete, brick, and wood, expanding as it freezes and causing cracking and structural damage. If you absolutely need exterior cleaning done during the winter months, it should only be attempted on days when temperatures are well above freezing and the forecast does not include overnight lows below 32 degrees. In most cases, it is best to wait until spring.

Surfaces That Need Pressure Washing

Different surfaces on your property require different pressure levels, nozzle types, and cleaning techniques. Using the wrong approach on any surface can result in damage, which is one of the primary reasons professional service is recommended. Here is a detailed look at the most common surfaces that benefit from regular pressure washing:

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is the most common exterior cladding on Indiana homes, and it is also one of the most frequently cleaned surfaces. Over time, vinyl siding accumulates dirt, mold, mildew, and green algae, particularly on north-facing walls and shaded areas. The best approach for vinyl siding is soft washing, which uses low pressure (under 1,000 PSI) combined with a cleaning solution that kills mold and mildew at the root. High pressure can crack vinyl panels, force water behind the siding, and void manufacturer warranties. Our house washing service uses professional soft wash techniques designed specifically for vinyl siding.

Brick and Masonry

Brick homes are durable, but the mortar joints between bricks are vulnerable to erosion from excessive pressure. Professional cleaning of brick surfaces typically uses moderate pressure (1,500 to 2,500 PSI) combined with appropriate cleaning agents to remove efflorescence, mold, moss, and staining without damaging the mortar. Older brick homes with lime-based mortar require even more careful handling, as the mortar is softer than modern Portland cement-based mixes.

Wood Surfaces

Wood siding, trim, and log homes require a gentle touch. Too much pressure will gouge the wood grain, splinter the surface, and force water deep into the wood fibers where it promotes rot and decay. Soft washing is the safest approach for wood surfaces, typically at 500 to 1,200 PSI with a wide-angle nozzle. After cleaning, wood surfaces often benefit from sealing or staining to protect them from moisture damage.

Concrete Driveways and Walkways

Concrete is the most forgiving surface when it comes to pressure washing and can typically handle pressures up to 3,000 PSI or more. Indiana driveways take a beating from road salt, oil drips, tire marks, and the constant freeze-thaw cycle that causes surface deterioration. Professional driveway cleaning uses surface cleaner attachments that provide even coverage and prevent the streaking that can occur with a standard wand. For homeowners in the Tri-State area, regular sidewalk and driveway cleaning dramatically improves the overall appearance of the property.

Roofs

Roof cleaning is one of the services where professional expertise is most critical. Those dark streaks you see on asphalt shingle roofs are caused by a blue-green algae called Gloeocapsa magma, which feeds on the limestone filler in shingles. Left untreated, this algae shortens the lifespan of your roof and can lead to premature replacement costing tens of thousands of dollars. Professional roof cleaning uses a soft wash method with specialized algaecides. High-pressure washing should never be used on a roof, as it strips away the protective granules and can void your roof warranty.

Decks and Patios

Decks accumulate dirt, mold, algae, and UV damage that make them look gray, worn, and slippery. Professional deck cleaning restores the wood's natural appearance and prepares it for staining or sealing. Composite decking also benefits from regular cleaning, although it requires different pressure settings and cleaning solutions than natural wood. Patio cleaning is equally important, whether you have a concrete patio, pavers, or natural stone. Each material has specific pressure and chemical requirements that a professional will understand.

DIY vs. Professional Pressure Washing

Many Indiana homeowners consider renting a pressure washer from a local home improvement store and tackling the job themselves. While DIY pressure washing is certainly possible, it is important to understand the full picture before making that decision. Here is an honest comparison of the two approaches:

Equipment Costs

Renting a consumer-grade pressure washer typically costs $50 to $100 per day, but that is just the starting point. You will also need to purchase nozzle tips, cleaning solutions, extension wands for second-story areas, surface cleaner attachments, safety equipment, and often additional hose length. By the time you add everything up, a single DIY pressure washing session can cost $200 to $500 or more. Compare that to Thompson's professional house washing, which starts at just $199 and includes all equipment, cleaning solutions, and labor.

Risk of Property Damage

This is the single biggest reason to consider professional service. A high-pressure stream of water is powerful enough to etch concrete, gouge wood, crack vinyl siding, break window seals, and strip paint. It can force water behind siding and into wall cavities, leading to hidden moisture damage and mold growth. It can damage roofing shingles, blast out mortar from brick joints, and destroy landscaping. Professional pressure washing technicians spend years learning the right pressure, nozzle, distance, and technique for every surface. A few minutes of inexperienced pressure washing can cause thousands of dollars in damage that far exceeds the cost of hiring a professional.

Time Investment

A professional crew can wash an average-sized Indiana home in two to four hours. A homeowner using rental equipment with no experience can expect the same job to take an entire day or longer, not counting the time spent picking up and returning the rental equipment, buying supplies, and cleaning up afterward. For most homeowners, a Saturday spent pressure washing is a Saturday they would rather spend with family.

Insurance and Liability

If you damage your own property while pressure washing, you are on the hook for the repair costs. If you accidentally damage a neighbor's property, you could face a liability claim. Professional pressure washing companies like Thompson's carry full liability insurance that protects your property and gives you peace of mind. If anything goes wrong, you are covered.

Results Quality

Commercial-grade pressure washing equipment operates at significantly higher flow rates and more consistent pressure than consumer-grade rental units. Combined with professional-grade cleaning solutions and the expertise to use them effectively, the results are visibly superior. Professional crews also have surface cleaner attachments that prevent streaking on flat surfaces, soft wash systems for delicate materials, and the experience to address tough stains that consumer equipment simply cannot handle.

The bottom line is clear: for the price of a DIY attempt, you can hire a professional who will deliver better results, faster, with no risk to your property. Contact Thompson's Pressure Washing for a free quote and see for yourself why homeowners across the Tri-State area trust us with their properties.

The Thompson's Pressure Washing Process

When you hire Thompson's Pressure Washing, you are not just hiring someone with a pressure washer. You are hiring a team that follows a proven, systematic process designed to deliver outstanding results while protecting your property at every step. Here is exactly what happens when we clean your home:

1. Property Inspection. Every job begins with a thorough inspection of your property. We walk the entire perimeter with you, identifying the surfaces that need cleaning, noting any pre-existing damage or areas of concern, and discussing your specific goals and expectations. This inspection allows us to determine the right pressure settings, nozzle selections, and cleaning solutions for each surface on your property. We also identify any items that need to be moved or protected before cleaning begins.
2. Preparation and Protection. Before any water flows, we carefully prepare the work area. We move outdoor furniture, planters, and decorations away from the cleaning zones. We cover delicate plants and landscaping with protective sheeting. We close all windows and doors, cover exterior electrical outlets, and ensure exterior light fixtures are protected from direct spray. We also pre-wet all surrounding vegetation with clean water to prevent absorption of cleaning solutions.
3. Apply Cleaning Solution. For most residential surfaces, we apply a professional-grade, biodegradable cleaning solution before pressure washing. This solution is specially formulated to break down mold, mildew, algae, and organic staining at the molecular level. We allow the solution to dwell on the surface for the appropriate amount of time, typically 5 to 15 minutes depending on the severity of the buildup. This pre-treatment step is what separates a professional cleaning from simply blasting surfaces with water.
4. Clean with Appropriate Method. With the cleaning solution having done its work, we clean each surface using the method best suited to the material. Hard surfaces like concrete driveways and sidewalks receive high-pressure cleaning with surface cleaner attachments for even, streak-free results. Delicate surfaces like vinyl siding, painted wood, and roofing receive our soft wash treatment at low pressure. We work systematically from top to bottom, section by section, ensuring complete and consistent coverage across every surface.
5. Thorough Rinse. After cleaning, we perform a complete rinse of all cleaned surfaces and the surrounding area. This removes any remaining cleaning solution, loosened debris, and contaminants. We also rinse all nearby landscaping, walkways, and hardscapes to ensure no cleaning residue is left behind. The rinse step is critical for ensuring a clean, streak-free finish and protecting your plants and lawn.
6. Final Walkthrough. Once the rinse is complete, we do a detailed walkthrough of the entire property with you. We check every surface, every corner, and every detail to make sure the results meet our high standards and your expectations. If you spot anything that does not look right, we address it immediately on the spot. We do not consider a job finished until you are completely satisfied with the results. This final walkthrough is backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Common Pressure Washing Mistakes

Whether you are attempting a DIY job or evaluating the work of a less experienced company, knowing the most common pressure washing mistakes can help you avoid costly problems. Here are the errors we see most frequently and why they matter:

• Using Too Much Pressure. This is the number one mistake and the one that causes the most damage. Every surface has a maximum safe pressure level, and exceeding it can cause irreversible damage. Too much pressure on vinyl siding cracks panels and forces water into wall cavities. Too much pressure on wood gouges the grain and creates splintering. Too much pressure on concrete can etch the surface. A professional knows the exact PSI for every material.
• Using the Wrong Nozzle. Pressure washers use interchangeable nozzle tips that control the spray angle and intensity. A zero-degree nozzle concentrates all the pressure into a pencil-thin stream that can cut through wood and etch concrete. A 40-degree nozzle spreads the pressure over a wider area for gentler cleaning. Using the wrong nozzle for the surface you are cleaning is a recipe for damage. Professionals typically use 25- or 40-degree nozzles for most residential applications.
• Ignoring Safety Precautions. A high-pressure water stream can cause serious injury, including lacerations, eye damage, and injection injuries where water penetrates the skin and enters the bloodstream. Proper safety equipment includes closed-toe shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, and long pants. Never point a pressure washer at people, pets, or yourself. Never use a pressure washer while standing on a ladder, as the kickback force can cause falls.
• Not Pre-Treating Surfaces. Simply blasting a surface with high-pressure water will remove loose dirt, but it will not kill the mold, mildew, and algae growing on and into the surface. Without a pre-treatment cleaning solution, these organisms will grow back within weeks. Professional pre-treatment kills contaminants at the root and delivers results that last months longer than water-only cleaning.
• Washing in the Wrong Weather. Pressure washing in direct sunlight causes cleaning solutions to dry on the surface before they can work, leaving streaks and residue. Pressure washing on windy days blows the spray and overspray in unintended directions. Pressure washing in freezing temperatures creates ice hazards and can damage surfaces. The ideal conditions are overcast skies, mild temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees, and low wind.
• Skipping the Final Rinse. Failing to thoroughly rinse all surfaces after cleaning leaves chemical residue that can stain or damage siding, discolor concrete, and harm plants. A complete rinse of all cleaned surfaces and surrounding areas is essential for a professional-quality result.
• Not Testing on an Inconspicuous Area First. Before cleaning any visible surface, you should always test your pressure setting, nozzle, and cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first. This test allows you to verify that the combination is safe for the surface and effective against the staining before committing to the entire area. Skipping this step can result in damage that is visible from the street.
• DIY Cleaning on Delicate Surfaces. Some surfaces should never be cleaned by anyone other than an experienced professional. Roofs, painted surfaces, older brick with lime-based mortar, natural stone, and stucco all require specialized knowledge, equipment, and technique. The cost of repairing damage caused by improper cleaning on these surfaces far exceeds the cost of hiring a professional in the first place.

How Much Does Pressure Washing Cost?

One of the most common questions we hear from Indiana homeowners is about pricing. The cost of pressure washing varies depending on the surface being cleaned, the size of the area, the severity of the buildup, and your geographic location. Here is a general overview of typical pricing ranges for the most popular residential pressure washing services in the Tri-State area:

• House Washing: $200 to $600, depending on the size of the home and the type of siding. A standard 1,500 to 2,500 square foot home typically falls in the $250 to $400 range.
• Driveway Cleaning: $150 to $400, depending on the size of the driveway and the severity of staining. Most two-car driveways cost between $150 and $250.
• Roof Cleaning: $300 to $800, depending on the roof size, pitch, and the extent of algae or moss growth. Roof cleaning uses specialized soft wash equipment and algaecides that add to the cost.
• Deck Cleaning: $200 to $500, depending on the size of the deck, the material (wood vs. composite), and whether staining or sealing is included.
• Gutter Cleaning: $100 to $300, depending on the linear footage of gutters and the amount of debris. Many homeowners bundle gutter cleaning with house washing for a discounted rate.

At Thompson's Pressure Washing, our professional services start at just $199, and we never charge hidden fees, travel surcharges, or surprise add-ons. The price we quote is the price you pay. We also offer bundled pricing when you combine multiple services, such as house washing with driveway cleaning or fence cleaning with patio cleaning. Every estimate is free, and there is never any obligation. Call us at (618) 384-8166 or request a quote online to get your exact price.

How Often Should You Pressure Wash?

The frequency of pressure washing depends on the surface, its exposure to the elements, and the specific conditions around your property. Here are the general guidelines we recommend for Indiana homeowners:

• House Siding: Once per year, ideally in the spring. Homes in heavily shaded areas or near trees may benefit from cleaning twice per year, as shade and moisture accelerate mold and algae growth.
• Driveways and Walkways: One to two times per year. Driveways in high-traffic areas, homes with multiple vehicles, or properties near construction sites may need more frequent cleaning.
• Roofs: Every two to three years, or as soon as you notice dark streaks or green growth. Regular roof cleaning can extend the life of your shingles by several years and help avoid a premature replacement.
• Decks: Once per year, typically in the spring before the outdoor entertaining season begins. Decks in shaded areas or those surrounded by trees may require cleaning twice per year to manage mold and leaf staining.
• Gutters: Twice per year, once in late spring after pollen season and again in late fall after the leaves have dropped. Clean gutters are essential for proper water drainage and preventing damage to your fascia, soffit, and foundation.

Keep in mind that these are general recommendations. If your property is in a particularly wooded area, near a lake, or in a humid microclimate, you may need more frequent cleaning. Our team can assess your specific property and provide a customized maintenance schedule during your initial service visit.

Choosing the Right Pressure Washing Company

Not all pressure washing companies are created equal. The difference between a professional operation and someone with a rented pressure washer can mean the difference between a beautifully cleaned property and thousands of dollars in damage. Here are the key factors to evaluate when choosing a pressure washing company in Indiana:

• Verify Insurance Coverage. Any pressure washing company working on your property should carry general liability insurance at a minimum. This protects you in the event of accidental property damage or injury during the service. Ask to see a certificate of insurance before work begins. Thompson's Pressure Washing is fully insured, and we are happy to provide proof of coverage upon request.
• Read Customer Reviews. Online reviews on Google, Facebook, and other platforms provide honest insight into a company's reliability, quality of work, and customer service. Look for companies with consistently positive reviews and pay attention to how they respond to any negative feedback. A company that addresses complaints professionally demonstrates accountability.
• Demand Transparent Pricing. Reputable pressure washing companies provide clear, written estimates before work begins. Be wary of companies that give vague pricing, charge by the hour instead of by the job, or refuse to put their quote in writing. Thompson's provides free, detailed estimates with no hidden fees, and the quoted price is the price you pay.
• Get a Written Estimate. A professional company will provide a written estimate or proposal that outlines the scope of work, the surfaces to be cleaned, the methods to be used, and the total price. This document protects both you and the company and ensures there are no misunderstandings about what is included in the service.
• Look for a Satisfaction Guarantee. A company that stands behind its work with a satisfaction guarantee is a company that is confident in its results. Thompson's Pressure Washing offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. If you are not happy with the results, we come back and make it right at no additional charge. If we still cannot meet your expectations, we issue a full refund.

Thompson's Pressure Washing meets every one of these criteria and more. We are a local, family-owned business serving homeowners across Evansville, Newburgh, Princeton, Mt. Vernon, and surrounding communities throughout Southern Indiana and Southern Illinois. We invite you to compare us to any other provider in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions