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United Sprayers Pressure Washing - Last Updated: February 7, 2026
We cover the greater Pittsburgh area – including all of the City of Pittsburgh and surrounding suburbs and counties including Westmoreland, Butler and parts of Beaver and Washington as well. Visit our Service Area page to learn more.
All of our services are competitively priced. There are no surprises at United Sprayers. Please check out full Pricing Overview page.
Yes! We hold a $2 Million liability policy to protect against any unlikely damage. We are also a registered contractor with the State of Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, #PA-193304
House washing is the process of removing built up mold, mildew, dirt, grime, and oftentimes rust, efflorescence, oxidation, and sometimes soot from a home’s exterior surfaces by using a combination of low to moderate water pressure and specialized detergents, algaecides, acids and surfactants.
While the cost of house washing can vary by region and individual vendor, it typically averages between .12 cents and .25 cents per square foot. Most homes in Pittsburgh, Wexford and Murrysville fall in a predictable range; we’ll confirm with quick photos or an on-site look. You can request a fast quote- no home visit needed in many cases.
Factors that are considered when pricing a house wash could include things like the number of stories, ease of access, types and condition of surfaces, and the severity of the stains and discoloration that need to be removed. Cost may also reflect the inclusion of additional services such as gutter brightening, high chimneys, as well as trouble areas requiring specialized treatment like rust, soot, efflorescence, and oxidation removal.
Please check out full Pricing Overview page.
The most common pressure used in house washing is around 90-150 psi and should never exceed 300 psi. A general rule of thumb is that if you can’t place your hand in the stream then the pressure is too high. While there are exceptions to this rule; such as when washing some brick, stone or concrete surfaces for example – proper house washing is generally accomplished using a soft wash method where the cleaning solution, and not pressure, is the chief mechanism of the cleaning process
Learn more about House Washing on our overview page.
Power washing is a generic term that is commonly used to describe any one of the typical methods used to wash a house exterior. None are “bad” in and of themselves. In fact, when done properly, they are all very effective. What makes a specific method “bad” is its execution and improper application. For example; ‘pressure washing’ – which uses high pressure, if applied incorrectly can damage building surfaces and force water into the interior walls and spaces not meant to store moisture. The other most common form of power washing is ‘soft washing’ – which uses chemicals rather than pressure. This, too, can damage surfaces and kill vegetation if applied incorrectly. Alternatively, both methods are extremely safe and effective when applied to the right surfaces, using the proper strength, at the right time.
Not if done by experienced professionals. That being said, ‘soft washing’ uses chemicals that can damage plants if the right precautions are not taken. The most common chemical used in soft washing is sodium hypochlorite (bleach). When applied at a rate of more than 1.5-2%, extra care must be taken to protect surrounding vegetation. This is done by pre-wetting leaves, saturating roots, and/or covering the plants with a breathable moisture barrier such as Tyvek. Further precautions include applying a bleach neutralizer before and after cleaning the adjacent surfaces.
House washing will not of itself damage paint. However, some paints are reactive to bleach – most notably among these is Sherwin Williams Organic paint. We always test for reaction prior to spraying any painted house surface.
The most common chemicals used in house washing are sodium hypochlorite and soap. Sodium hypochlorite; an active ingredient found in bleach, is used for its algacidal properties, and soap for its surfactant properties. Sodium hypochlorite kills most stain-causing organic material while surfactant keeps the cleaning solution wet longer allowing it to remain in contact with the surface being treated. In roof cleaning, surfactant also slows runoff by creating a more “sticky” cleaning solution.
The best time to wash your house is the instant you notice organic material appearing on the surfaces. In Pennsylvania, this usually appears as a green or black stain on the north and east sides of your house, as well as those areas with significant shade or little to no UV exposure from the sun. These stains signal the growth of organic colonies – the most common of which is Gloeocapsa magma. When treating these areas with a solution of 1.5% to 2% sodium hypochlorite, it will instantly eradicate all blooms and spores.
Yes. Brick gets cleaned with a soft-wash application and a careful rinse. That prevents etching and protects mortar joints. On older or painted brick, we test a small area first and adjust dwell time so you get a clean, even finish. Free quotes available across Greater Pittsburgh.
That’s algae and mildew—very common in the Southwestern Pennsylvania summer humidity (especially on north and east-facing sides). Our soft-wash mix breaks the growth at the root, so it lasts longer than plain water. Most homes in Pittsburgh, Murrysville, and Cranberry stay clean 12–24 months depending on shade and trees. Ask for a maintenance reminder if you’d like.
Most 1–2 story homes take about 2–4 hours, including setup and cleanup. Heavily shaded lots or houses with complex elevations can take longer. We’ll share an arrival window and keep you updated by text if anything changes.
Yes. However we will evaluate all 3 story homes for safety and access. Typically with our soft-wash systems and extension poles, we can safely access upper stories without putting your home at risk. We work around landscaping, lights, and cameras with care.
Most homes benefit from a wash every 12–24 months. Heavily shaded areas or homes near trees may need annual care. We can set up a light maintenance plan so your siding doesn’t regress to heavy growth again.
Please close windows, move ALL vehicles from the driveway, and bring in cushions or delicate décor, door mats, children toys. We also require clear access to your garden hose bib spigot. If we need gate codes, driveway codes or special instructions for pets, text them ahead of time. We’ll handle the rest.
Roof washing is the process of removing organic material from roof shingles or tiles by applying algaecides and surfactants at low pressure – typically in the range of 90-150 PSI.
Definitely. This is due to the bacterial colonies feeding on the limestone found within asphalt shingles. The colonies hold moisture and cause premature aging, rotting, and/or granule loss of the shingles.
Under no circumstances should high pressure be applied to roof shingles. We use safe, low pressure methods between 90 – 150 PSI to clean roofs depending on the roofing material.
The most common chemicals used in roof washing are sodium hypochlorite (an active ingredient found in bleach) and soap. Sodium hypochlorite; is used for its algacidal properties, and soap for its surfactant properties. Sodium hypoclorite kills most all stain-causing organic material while surfactant keeps the cleaning solution wet longer allowing it to remain in contact with the surface being treated. In roof cleaning, surfactant also slows runoff by creating a more “sticky” cleaning solution. We use a fruit scented surfactant which aids in masking the scent of the sodium hypoclorite.
All chemicals are biodegradable. However, care must be taken to protect plants from overspray and run-off. This is done by soaking all plants before and after treatment, and by “bagging” all downspouts to capture all chemicals.
Absolutely! Roofs often collect biologic growth such as moss, mildew and algae known as gloeocapsa magma which causes black streaks to form on your roof. Our LOW PRESSURE roof washing service applies an eco friendly industry standard algaecide cleaning solution which has been endorsed and recommended by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers’ Association to eliminate years of built up biologic material.
Learn more on our Roof Cleaning overview!
Roof washing can extend the life of your roof shingles by eradicating the bacteria that feeds on the limestone in your asphalt shingles.
Roof washing is a good idea when done properly to extend the life of your roof, reduce the amount of heat that’s absorbed into the surface, and to improve the overall curb appeal of your home.
The cost of roof washing typically ranges between .20 to .50 cents per square foot and is based on roof pitch, type and extent of bacterial infestation, degree of chemical run-off management required, and accessibility to the surfaces that need treatment.
As with any work done at height, roof washing is a dangerous job. All safety precautions must be strictly adhered to by the roof-washing technicians to prevent injury or death.
The black staining that develops over time on concrete driveways is a bacteria called Gloeocapsa magma. This is the same bacteria that feeds on the limestone and moisture found in asphalt shingle roofs. Over time, colonies of these bacteria accumulate and create a dark protective outer coating. And this is what creates the black appearance.
To remove the black staining from your driveway, we apply a coating of algaecide that kills the bacteria, including all of the undeveloped spores that are the cause of the black appearance. After allowing the algaecide to remain on the surface for at least 5 to 15 minutes, we follow-up with our professional grade high-pressure surface cleaners to remove the stains.
Pre-treating a driveway is the process of applying a chemical solution prior to applying high-pressure surface cleaners. The type of solution used is determined by the stain and the type of surface being cleaned. The most common solution used for cleaning concrete driveways in Pennsylvania is a mixture of algaecide with a surfactant. The algaecide eradicates organic matter while the surfactant reduces evaporation to allow the chemicals to cling to the surface longer.
Post-treating a driveway is the process of applying a chemical solution to the surface after high-pressure surface cleaners have washed the surface. The most common solution used for post-treating concrete in Pennsylvania is a 2-4% solution of water and sodium hypochlorite. This solution brightens concrete surfaces as they are naturally exposed to the UV light from the sun. The most noticeable result is a cleaner appearance. But more importantly, post-treating eradicates any remaining organic spores, thus keeping the surface algae-free for up to 2 years – depending on environmental variables.
Pricing for driveway cleaning varies from company to company. We price most typical driveways by “sections” and “squares”. That is, driveways and sidewalks are made up of rectangular sections of concrete separated by an expansion joint. For atypical driveways that don’t have “sections”, we price these by the square foot. The type of surface and the extent of cleaning required will further define the cost.
Learn more about our Driveway Cleaning on our overview page.
No. Rust removal requires a special chemical treatment. It cannot be removed with a pressure washer. We offer this as an add-on service.
Without the proper pre-treatment and/or post-treatment, your driveway will see the return of the black algae in a matter of a few weeks to months – depending on what part of the year it was initially cleaned. Alternatively, WITH the proper pre-treatment and/or post-treatment, you can expect your driveway to remain clean for up to 2 years. Surrounding environmental conditions vary as does the corresponding duration of time between cleanings.
Yes. We include a 1-year limited warranty on most driveway cleaning jobs with an option to extend this to 2 years for a few dollars more. Atypical driveways with unusual environmental conditions may not come with a warranty.
Yes! With our northern climate’s freeze and thaw cycles, it is imperative that you regularly keep your concrete surfaces sealed and protect from the harsh winter salts. Even if you are not using salt on your driveway, your vehicle will always drip it as you drive into your garage or if you park your vehicle in the driveway.
At United Sprayers, we recommend having your driveway sealed every 3 – 5 years. We can also seal your patio, pool deck and sidewalk.
We begin by pressure washing your concrete surface to remove any biologics which are growing using an eco friendly, industry standard cleaning algicide. Once washed we will seal your concrete using a penetrating surface sealer. The sealer will leave your surface looking dry – NO WET LOOK. It will look just like it did before we began – only much cleaner!
Learn more about our Driveway Cleaning on our overview page.
No. Our professional team utilizes a low-pressure soft-wash system to effectively remove mold, mildew, lichen and other biological growth, dirt and grime. Typically between 90 and 120 PSI. The use of anything higher risks lifting the tannins (natural glue) from the wood fibers.
Yes. We apply a coating of algaecide that kills the bacteria, including all of the undeveloped spores that are the cause of the algae growth typically found on many surfaces. After allowing the algaecide to remain on the surface for at least 5 to 15 minutes, we follow-up with our professional grade low-pressure soft-wash system to remove the biologics.
We use a professional grade wood cleaner which targets biologic growth and brightens the surface of the wood.
Yes. Our soft-wash system is gentle on both stained and coated wood surfaces.
Yes. Uncoated wood will look much brighter after we are finished. Our cleaning process removes the built up biologic growth and restores the natural look of wood through our professional wood wizard neutralizer.
Learn more on our Deck & Fence cleaning overview page.
Yes. Once fully washed, we do offer add-on services to stain and protect your structure.
Once cleaned, we will use a stripper to prep the previously stained surface.
We use an environmentally friendly “penetrating” water-based stain using a 2-coat brush application. The first coat covers approximately 100-200 sq ft per gallon. The second coat covers approximately 200-300 sq ft per gallon. This may vary depending upon condition and type of wood.
* Final color and appearance of any product is affected by the underlying wood type, texture, porosity, and color. *
We also offer clear coat sealing for a natural wood look.
Learn more about our Stain Color Samples overview page.
We go by a “90/10 rule.” This means that by soft washing with low pressure that 90% of the old coatings should come off and 10% will need to be sanded. When you use a pressure washer to remove everything you usually use too much pressure and risk damaging the wood fibers. Successful cleaning and restoring or stripping of wood surfaces relies on using the correct product to perform the work, and allowing the proper dwell time for the product to work.
Then, the lowest possible pressure to rinse the wood surfaces and restores the wood. Troublesome areas like where mats or umbrella stands were, under benches, along the house, and other spots generally require additional, special attention prior to staining with a small palm sander. There will be times a floor sander is used on a decking. In both cases, we do not use anything over 100 grit sandpaper.
No. Our stain can be applied immediately after washing – no return trip is needed. Our stains penetrate the wood surface and provide UV protection. It is a premium stain unlike that which you find in the big box stores.