One of the most attractive things about starting a pressure washing business is the simple fact that it can be started with a minimum amount of expense. Power washing can be performed as a part-time or full-time business with just a basic gas powered power washer purchased at your local big box store. The trade itself doesn’t require any real training but just good common sense and the ability to use specialized equipment and materials safely and efficiently as well as the willingness to perform some good old fashioned labor. Of course the challenge is knowing exactly what equipment and supplies are really necessary for success as well as controlling expenses for advertising, equipment, supplies and legal liabilities. Anyone serious about the business must develop and follow a sound business plan.

It is a good suggestion to obtain a pressure washing business plan from someone with experience in the field. Following a good plan can save the new business owner a lot of money and frustration caused by the many decisions that new business owners are faced with. Today it is easy to join a franchise business but in most cases, a pressure washing business can be more successful by following a good business plan and remaining independent. There are many expenses associated with the purchase of a franchise that are not apparent to those new to business.

As with any business, it is necessary to project a professional image. A wise pressure washing business owner will take that in mind as he or she gets started. While a simple small pressure washer might be a good starting point, it will benefit the professional to consider heavy duty commercial type machines and possibly even a trailer or truck mounted machine with water storage tanks depending upon their future plans. The key to ultimate success is projecting that professional image to your customers from the very first day. The correct commercial equipment will contribute to your overall business image. Again, this is where a good business plan will protect the new owner from overspending on equipment that is not needed or impractical for general use.

There are a few very large manufacturers of commercial pressure washing equipment who offer equipment packages. The challenge for the new business owner is knowing if the specific equipment will really benefit his or her bottom line. Many a newbie has loaded his garage with equipment that was never used. The first question arises when you consider the difference in cost of hot water and cold water equipment. The manufacturer’s sales rep will always recommend that powerful and expensive hot water machine but the question is whether you really need it. Be sure to do your research before buying any equipment. Again, this illustrates the benefit of a good mentor or business plan.

In most cases, the power washing business owner will be using high water pressure to clean driveways, concrete floors, parking lots, roofs, boat ramps, boat hulls and decks, warehouses, garage floors, house siding and more. Depending upon your geographic location, you might see fit to specialize in one field, for example if you lived in a coastal area with boat marinas, you might focus on the marine environment. Of course this will require some personal research on your part.

The additional benefit of using pressure washing for cleaning is you can use less chemicals, less water, less energy and accomplish your cleaning job is less time then using conventional hose and water. Again, this emphasizes the importance of having the correct equipment for the job at hand.

So if all this sounds like what you would like to get involved with, be sure to scan our site for additional pressure washing business tips and secrets that will contribute to your success. Take advantage of decades of on-the-job experience and don’t waste time trying to ‘re-invent the wheel’, so to speak.