The Best Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Pressure Washing Service in Johns Creek
Hiring the wrong pressure washing company can leave your Johns Creek property damaged—or still dirty. We’ve seen firsthand how the right questions separate the pros from the amateurs. Ask these before signing any contract.
Do You Use Hot Water or Cold Water Pressure Washing?
Hot water cuts through grease, oil, and stubborn grime far better than cold. For driveways in Alpharetta or commercial kitchens in Peachtree Corners, it’s non-negotiable.
Cold water works for general house washing and roof soft washing, but hot water units cost more to operate. Ask if they own the equipment or subcontract it—this affects pricing and scheduling.
| Surface | Hot Water | Cold Water |
|---|---|---|
| Driveway (oil stains) | Best choice | Less effective |
| House siding (mildew) | Overkill | Ideal with soft wash |
| Commercial dumpster pads | Essential | Insufficient |
| Deck (wood) | Risk of damage | Safer with proper PSI |
What PSI and GPM Do You Use for My Specific Surfaces?
PSI (pressure) and GPM (flow) must match the job. Too high PSI etches concrete or strips paint. Too low leaves dirt behind.
For Johns Creek homes, we typically use 1,200–1,900 PSI for vinyl siding, 2,000–3,000 PSI for concrete, and under 1,000 PSI for roof soft washing. GPM should be 3–8 for residential work.
Consumer-grade pressure washers often exceed safe PSI for delicate surfaces. Pros adjust pressure at the nozzle, not just the machine.
Do You Offer Soft Wash for Roofs and Delicate Surfaces?
Roof washing in Johns Creek demands soft wash—a low-pressure, bleach-based solution to kill algae and moss without damaging shingles. Never let a company pressure wash your roof at high PSI.
Soft wash is also ideal for cedar shake siding, stucco, and older paint. Ask if they use sodium hypochlorite (bleach) or a proprietary blend, and how they protect nearby plants.
How Do You Protect My Property During Cleaning?
Pros cover electrical outlets, light fixtures, and HVAC units. They’ll also pre-wet plants before applying bleach-based cleaners and rinse them afterward.
For deck cleaning in Roswell or Cumming, we use plastic sheeting to shield nearby landscaping. Ask about their process—if they shrug, walk away.
Property Protection Must-Dos
- Cover or seal electrical components
- Pre-wet and rinse plants when using bleach
- Use surface cleaners to prevent streaking on driveways
- Inspect for loose siding or damaged caulk before starting
Do You Operate and Serve North Atlanta?
Georgia doesn’t require a state license for pressure washing, but reputable companies carry liability insurance and workers’ comp. Always ask for certificates.
Local teams know Johns Creek’s climate—humid summers breed mildew fast, and pollen in spring sticks like glue. A Duluth-based crew might not understand our microclimate like we do.
Insurance should cover accidental damage (e.g., broken windows or stripped paint). Call their provider to confirm the policy is active.
What Cleaning Solutions Do You Use, and Are They Safe?
Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is standard for soft washing roofs and killing mold. For driveways, a degreaser or oxalic acid may tackle rust stains.
Avoid companies using harsh, undiluted chemicals or unknown mixes. In Johns Creek, eco-friendly options matter—ask if they offer biodegradable cleaners for homes near Chattahoochee River tributaries.
Do You Provide Additional Services Like Gutter Cleaning or Sealant Application?
Many pressure washing companies bundle services. Gutter cleaning in Johns Creek often pairs with house washing. Sealant application after deck cleaning extends the life of the wood.
Commercial clients in Alpharetta or Peachtree Corners may need graffiti removal or storefront cleaning. Ask if they handle these—or if they’ll refer you to a trusted partner.
What’s Your Process for Estimates and Scheduling?
Avoid companies that quote over the phone without seeing the job. Surface type, square footage, and stain severity all affect time and cost.
We serve Johns Creek, Alpharetta, and Roswell—ask providers about their lead time, as summer is the busiest season, so book early for driveway or patio cleaning.
Verbal quotes leave room for surprises. Insist on a detailed, written estimate outlining services, chemicals, and any exclusions.
How to Vet a Pressure Washing Company in 5 Steps
Use this quick process to separate the experts from the fly-by-night operators.
- 1Check for Insurance and References
Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers’ comp. Request references from Johns Creek or nearby areas like Duluth.
- 2Verify Their Equipment and Methods
Ensure they own commercial-grade equipment and use the right PSI/GPM for your surfaces. Confirm they soft wash roofs.
- 3Ask About Cleaning Solutions
Inquire about the chemicals they use and how they protect plants, pets, and water sources. Avoid vague answers.
- 4Get a Written, Itemized Estimate
The estimate should list services, surface types, and any add-ons like sealant or gutter cleaning. Compare at least 3 quotes.
- 5Review Their Local Reputation
Check for consistent praise (or complaints) about punctuality, thoroughness, and damage prevention. Local Facebook groups often have candid feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I pressure wash my Johns Creek home?
Most homes need house washing every 12–24 months, but roofs may require soft washing annually due to humidity and algae growth. Driveways and sidewalks often need attention every 6–12 months, especially in high-traffic areas.
Can pressure washing damage my property?
Yes, if done incorrectly. High PSI can etch concrete, strip paint, or gouge wood. Improper chemicals can kill plants or corrode fixtures. Always hire a pro who adjusts pressure and solutions to the surface.
Do you service commercial properties in Alpharetta or Peachtree Corners?
Many pressure washing companies serve both residential and commercial clients. Commercial jobs often require hot water units, graffiti removal, or ADA-compliant cleaning for sidewalks. Ask if they have experience with storefronts, parking lots, or fleet washing.
What’s the difference between pressure washing and power washing?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but power washing typically uses hot water, while pressure washing can use hot or cold. For tough stains on driveways or grease in commercial kitchens, hot water (power washing) is more effective.
Will pressure washing remove all stains from my driveway?
Most organic stains (mildew, algae, dirt) and light oil stains will come out. Older oil stains or rust may require additional treatments like degreasers or oxalic acid. Some deeply embedded stains may need a second pass or professional sealing afterward.
Should I tip the pressure washing crew?
Tipping isn’t expected, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service—especially for large or challenging jobs. If the crew goes above and beyond (e.g., hand-scrubbing stubborn areas or working in extreme heat), a tip of 10–20% is a kind gesture.