Skip to main content

Good As New Pressure Washing: What to Know Before You Hire

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Good As New Pressure Washing does

Good As New Pressure Washing is a pressure washing contractor operating in South Carolina that handles exterior cleaning for residential and commercial properties. The company uses high-pressure water systems to remove dirt, mold, algae, and stains from surfaces like driveways, decks, siding, and roofs. Before you contact them or any pressure washing service, you should understand what the work involves, what it costs in your area, and what questions to ask.

Pressure washing can restore a property's appearance significantly, but it also carries real risks if done incorrectly—damaged siding, stripped paint, or water intrusion into walls and foundations. Knowing what to expect from a contractor and how to evaluate their work protects both your property and your money.

Key Takeaways

  • Pressure washing removes built-up dirt and mold from exterior surfaces, but improper technique can damage siding, wood, and roofing materials.
  • Different surfaces require different pressure levels and nozzles—driveways tolerate higher pressure than wood decks or vinyl siding.
  • Get written estimates from multiple contractors that specify what surfaces will be cleaned, what pressure settings will be used, and what is not included.
  • Ask whether the contractor carries liability insurance and whether they use environmentally safe cleaning solutions, especially near landscaping and water runoff areas.

Pressure levels and surface types matter

Concrete driveways and sidewalks can handle 3000 to 4000 PSI (pounds per square inch) without damage. Wood decks, by contrast, need 1500 PSI or less to avoid splintering and gouging. Vinyl siding requires even gentler treatment—typically under 1500 PSI—because high pressure can force water behind the panels and cause mold growth inside walls.

A contractor should tell you upfront what pressure they plan to use on each surface and why. If someone quotes you the same PSI for your driveway and your deck, that is a sign they may not be thinking carefully about your property. Roof cleaning is particularly sensitive: some materials require soft-wash methods using low pressure and specialized cleaning solutions rather than high-pressure spray.

What to ask before hiring

Request a written estimate that lists each area to be cleaned, the method (high pressure, soft wash, or chemical treatment), and any surfaces that will be excluded. Ask whether the price includes protecting nearby plants, landscaping, and outdoor furniture, or whether you need to move or cover those items yourself.

Confirm that the contractor carries liability insurance. If they damage your siding or a neighbor's property, their insurance should cover it—not your homeowner's policy. Ask for references from recent jobs on similar surfaces to yours, and follow up by calling at least one. Find out whether they use biodegradable cleaning solutions and how they handle runoff, especially if your property drains toward a storm drain or a neighbor's yard.

Timing and weather conditions

Pressure washing works best on dry or mostly dry days. Rain within 24 hours before or after the job can reduce effectiveness and may trap moisture in wood or behind siding. Wind matters too—spray can blow onto neighboring properties or into open windows, and dust kicked up during the process can settle on cars and outdoor furniture.

Schedule the work when you can be home to monitor progress and point out any concerns in real time. If damage occurs during the job, you want to catch it and discuss it with the contractor while they are still there, not after they have left and the water has dried.

Cost and what affects the price

Pressure washing costs vary widely depending on the size of the area, the type of surfaces, how dirty they are, and your location within South Carolina. A small driveway may cost less than $200, while cleaning a full house exterior with multiple surface types can run several hundred dollars or more. Chemical treatments for mold or algae removal typically cost more than plain pressure washing.

Get at least two or three estimates before deciding. The lowest bid is not always the best—a contractor who quotes significantly less than others may be using inadequate pressure, skipping surfaces, or planning to rush through the job. The highest bid is not automatically better either; it may simply reflect higher overhead or a different service area.

After the work is done

Walk the property with the contractor before they leave and point out any areas that do not look clean or any damage you notice. Take photos of the work while it is fresh. Most contractors stand behind their work for a short period—typically a few days to a week—if you spot problems immediately.

Do not assume that pressure-washed surfaces will stay clean indefinitely. Dirt, mold, and algae return over time, especially in humid climates like South Carolina's. Some contractors offer maintenance plans or seasonal cleaning to keep surfaces looking fresh longer.

Alternatives if pressure washing is not suitable

Not every dirty surface should be pressure washed. Delicate materials like certain types of stone, old brick, or painted wood may need soft washing, chemical cleaning, or hand scrubbing instead. If a contractor insists that high-pressure washing is the only option for your roof or wood siding, get a second opinion before proceeding.

For heavily stained or moldy surfaces, a contractor may recommend a pre-treatment with a cleaning solution, followed by lower-pressure rinsing. This approach takes longer and costs more upfront but protects your property and often produces better results than brute-force high-pressure spray alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can pressure washing damage my house?

Yes, if the pressure is too high for the material or if the contractor holds the nozzle too close to the surface. Water forced behind siding or into wood can cause rot, mold, and structural damage that may not show up for months. Always verify that the contractor understands your specific surfaces and will use appropriate pressure levels.

Is it safe to pressure wash a roof?

High-pressure roof cleaning can damage shingles, strip granules, and shorten the roof's lifespan. Many contractors now use soft-wash methods with low pressure and specialized cleaning solutions instead. Ask your contractor whether they recommend soft washing for your roof type and material.

How often should I have my driveway pressure washed?

This depends on your climate, how much shade your driveway gets, and how much traffic it sees. In South Carolina's humid environment, driveways can accumulate mold and algae fairly quickly. Many homeowners pressure wash annually or every other year to maintain appearance.

What should I do to prepare my property?

Move outdoor furniture, toys, and potted plants away from the areas being cleaned. Close windows and doors. If you have delicate plants near the work area, ask the contractor how they will protect them or whether you should move them yourself. Turn off exterior electrical outlets or cover them if they are in the spray zone.

Do I need to be home during the pressure washing?

It is a good idea to be present so you can point out problem areas, answer questions about surface types, and monitor the work in progress. If you cannot be home, make sure the contractor knows how to reach you if issues come up.