Vick and Sons Surface Cleaning: What to Know Before You Hire
Who Vick and Sons Are and What They Do
Vick and Sons Surface Cleaning is a pressure washing company operating in South Carolina that handles residential and commercial cleaning jobs. They use high-pressure water systems to clean exterior surfaces—driveways, decks, siding, roofs, and other areas where dirt, mold, algae, and weathering accumulate. The company has built a local reputation for this work, and if you found them while researching pressure washers in the state, they are one option among several to consider.
Like other pressure washing services, Vick and Sons charges by the job rather than by the hour in most cases. The actual cost depends on the size of the area, the type of surface, how dirty it is, and how far they have to travel. Before hiring any pressure washing company—including this one—it helps to understand what questions to ask, what to expect during the work, and how to protect your property.
Key Takeaways
- Vick and Sons is a South Carolina–based pressure washing company that cleans driveways, decks, siding, and other exterior surfaces using high-pressure water systems.
- Pricing varies by job size and surface type, so you should contact them directly for a quote on your specific project.
- Before hiring any pressure washing service, confirm what surfaces they will and will not clean, what equipment they use, and whether they carry liability insurance.
- Pressure washing can damage certain materials if done incorrectly, so asking about their experience with your specific surface type is important.
- Getting multiple quotes from different pressure washing companies helps you compare price, experience, and what is included in the service.
How to Contact Vick and Sons for a Quote
To get pricing information and discuss your specific cleaning needs, you will need to reach out to the company directly. Most pressure washing companies in South Carolina provide free estimates, meaning they visit your property, assess the work, and give you a price before you commit. This is the standard practice and allows you to see what they are working with.
When you contact them, have details ready: the square footage or dimensions of the area you want cleaned, what surface it is (concrete, wood, vinyl siding, roof, etc.), and how long it has been since it was last cleaned. If you have photos of the area, those can help too. This information speeds up the estimate process and gives you a more accurate quote.
What to Ask Before You Hire
Pressure washing equipment varies in power and technique. Before committing to any company, ask what pressure level (measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch) they use on different surfaces. Soft surfaces like wood and vinyl siding need lower pressure than concrete driveways. If a company uses the same high pressure on everything, they risk damaging wood, stripping paint, or creating gouges in softer materials.
Ask whether they use hot water or cold water, and whether they apply cleaning solutions before pressure washing. Hot water and detergent remove mold and algae more effectively than pressure alone, especially on surfaces that have been neglected. Also confirm whether they will move outdoor furniture, planters, or other items, or whether that is your responsibility.
Request proof of liability insurance. If the pressure washer damages your siding, roof, or landscaping, or if someone is injured during the work, insurance protects you both. A company that carries insurance is more established and professional than one that does not.
Common Surfaces and What to Know About Each
Concrete driveways and patios are the most forgiving surfaces for pressure washing. They can handle higher pressure without damage, and pressure washing removes oil stains, algae, and years of grime effectively. Most companies charge less for concrete than for other surfaces because the work is straightforward.
Wood decks require care. Pressure that is too high splinters and damages the wood grain. A skilled operator uses lower pressure and often applies a wood cleaner first. After pressure washing, wood decks typically need sealing or staining to protect them from weather. Ask whether the company recommends this and whether they offer it as a follow-up service.
Vinyl and fiber cement siding can be damaged by high pressure. Water can be forced behind the siding, causing mold or rot inside the walls. A reputable company uses lower pressure and angles the spray carefully to avoid forcing water into seams. If your home has siding, confirm the company has experience with it before booking.
Roofs are delicate and require specialized knowledge. Pressure washing a roof can dislodge shingles, damage flashing, or void your roof warranty. Many roofing professionals recommend soft washing (low pressure with chemical cleaners) instead of pressure washing. Ask whether the company has roof experience and what method they use.
What Happens After the Work Is Done
Once the pressure washing is complete, the cleaned surfaces will look dramatically different—brighter, cleaner, and often years younger. However, some surfaces need follow-up care. Wood that has been pressure washed should be sealed or stained within a few weeks to prevent water absorption and weathering. Concrete can be sealed to resist stains and extend its life. Ask the company whether they recommend or provide these services.
If you notice damage after the work—gouges in concrete, splintered wood, or water damage to siding—document it with photos and contact the company immediately. This is why insurance matters: legitimate companies will work with their insurance to address problems they caused.
Comparing Vick and Sons to Other Pressure Washing Companies
South Carolina has many pressure washing companies, from solo operators to larger teams. Price alone should not be your only factor. A company that charges significantly less than others may be using lower-pressure equipment, less effective cleaning solutions, or less experienced staff. A company that charges more may offer additional services like sealing or staining, or may have a stronger reputation for careful work on delicate surfaces.
Get quotes from at least two or three companies. Ask each the same questions about pressure levels, insurance, and experience with your specific surface type. Read online reviews if they are available, but keep in mind that reviews can be incomplete or biased. A company with a mix of positive and neutral reviews is often more trustworthy than one with only glowing praise or only complaints.
Preparing Your Property for Pressure Washing
Before the crew arrives, move outdoor furniture, planters, grills, and other items away from the area being cleaned. Close windows and doors if they are near the work zone. If you have delicate plants or landscaping close to the area, let the company know so they can take precautions or work around them.
Confirm the date and time with the company a day or two before they arrive. Ask how long the work typically takes so you can plan accordingly. If you have pets, consider whether they should be inside or in another area during the work—the noise and activity can stress animals, and they may get in the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pressure washing typically cost in South Carolina?
Pricing varies widely depending on the size of the area, the surface type, and how dirty it is. A small driveway might cost $150 to $300, while a full house exterior could run $500 to $1,500 or more. The only way to know what Vick and Sons charges is to contact them for a quote on your specific project.
Will pressure washing damage my deck or siding?
It can, if done incorrectly. High pressure on wood splinters it; high pressure on vinyl forces water behind the siding. A skilled operator uses appropriate pressure levels and techniques for each surface. Always ask the company about their experience with your specific material before hiring them.
Do I need to do anything to prepare my property?
Move outdoor furniture, planters, and other items away from the work area. Close windows and doors nearby. Let the company know about delicate plants or landscaping so they can work around them. Confirm the date and time a day or two before they arrive.
Should I get my roof pressure washed?
Pressure washing can damage roof shingles and flashing. Many roofing professionals recommend soft washing (low pressure with chemical cleaners) instead. Ask the company whether they have roof experience and what method they use before booking.
What should I do if the pressure washing damages my property?
Document the damage with photos and contact the company immediately. This is why hiring an insured company matters—their insurance can cover repairs they caused. Do not wait; the sooner you report it, the easier it is to resolve.