Best Time to Plant Grass in South Carolina

A standard two-car driveway (400–600 sq ft) runs $150–250 in the Columbia metro. Longer driveways, heavy red clay staining, or oil spots push the price higher. Most companies price by square footage or flat rate after an on-site look. Concrete, pavers, and exposed aggregate all clean well with pressure washing. Avoid DIY on stamped or stained concrete — the wrong PSI strips the finish.

A full house exterior wash runs $250–500 depending on square footage, siding type, and how much algae or mildew has built up. Vinyl siding is straightforward. Brick, stucco, and painted wood need soft washing (low pressure plus cleaning solution) to avoid damage. Two-story homes cost more due to reach requirements. Most Columbia-area homes accumulate enough grime in 12–18 months to justify a wash.

Patios run $100–200 depending on size and material. Wood decks are $150–300 and usually include a post-cleaning brightener. Fences run $1–2 per linear foot. Composite decking needs lower pressure than wood to avoid surface scuffing. If your deck needs staining after washing, budget an additional $2–4 per square foot for stain application.

Storefronts, parking lots, and dumpster pads are priced per square foot — typically $0.08–$0.15 depending on surface condition and access. Regular maintenance contracts (monthly or quarterly) bring per-visit costs down 15–20%. Restaurant and food-service properties often need monthly dumpster pad washing to stay compliant with health codes.

The main cost drivers are surface area, staining severity, access difficulty, and whether you need pressure washing or soft washing. Heavily shaded surfaces grow more algae and take longer. Second-story reach adds time and equipment cost. Red clay staining — common across the Midlands — requires pre-treatment and multiple passes. Bundling multiple surfaces (driveway + patio + house) on one visit saves 15–25% vs. separate appointments.