One of the most common questions homeowners ask before booking exterior cleaning is simple:
“How much does it cost?”
The honest answer is that exterior cleaning is not a one-price-fits-all service. Two houses on the same street can require very different levels of work, equipment, time, and expertise — which is why professional exterior cleaning is quoted, not flat-priced.
This guide answers the most common pricing questions homeowners ask, explains what actually affects cost, and helps you understand what you’re paying for when you book professional exterior cleaning.
Why Isn’t There a Fixed Price for Exterior Cleaning?
Exterior cleaning pricing varies because no two properties are the same.
Factors that change the cost include:
- Size of the home
- Height and access
- Level of buildup
- Type of surfaces
- Safety requirements
- Time required
- Equipment needed
A small, single-storey home with light dirt is very different from a large, multi-level property with heavy mould, moss, or blocked gutters.
What Services Fall Under “Exterior Cleaning”?
Exterior cleaning can include:
- House washing
- Roof cleaning or moss treatment
- Gutter cleaning
- Water blasting (driveways, paths, patios)
- Deck and fence cleaning
Each service has different labour, equipment, and risk levels — which directly affects pricing.
What Affects the Cost of House Washing?
House washing pricing is influenced by:
House Size
Larger homes take longer and require more solution.
Height
Two-storey and multi-level homes require:
- Additional safety measures
- Longer setup times
- More specialised equipment
Level of Mould & Grime
Light surface dirt is faster to clean than:
- Heavy mould buildup
- Long-neglected surfaces
- Thick staining in shaded areas
Access
Limited access around the home increases labour time.
Why Do Roof Cleaning Prices Vary So Much?
Roof cleaning is one of the most variable services.
Pricing depends on:
- Roof size
- Roof pitch
- Roof material
- Level of moss or lichen
- Access and fall risk
Steep or high roofs require:
- Height safety systems
- Slower working speeds
- Increased risk management
This is why roof cleaning should never be priced sight-unseen.
Why Is Roof Moss Treatment Sometimes Cheaper Than Cleaning?
Because treatment focuses on killing growth, not immediate cosmetic results.
Treatment:
- Takes less time
- Uses less water
- Does not involve aggressive removal
However, it delivers long-term protection, which is why it’s often the better value option.
What Affects Gutter Cleaning Prices?
Gutter cleaning cost depends on:
- Length of guttering
- Amount of debris
- Downpipe blockages
- Height of the property
- Roof access complexity
Heavily blocked gutters take significantly longer to clear than lightly soiled systems.
Why Is Water Blasting Priced Separately?
Water blasting is a different service entirely.
Pricing depends on:
- Surface area
- Type of surface (concrete, pavers, stone)
- Level of staining (oil, rust, mould)
- Drainage and runoff control
Removing oil or rust stains takes more time and expertise than general cleaning.
Why Are Two Quotes for the Same Job Sometimes Very Different?
Price differences usually come down to:
- Level of experience
- Equipment quality
- Insurance and compliance
- Time allowed to do the job properly
Extremely low prices often mean:
- Rushed work
- High pressure used incorrectly
- No insurance coverage
- Corners being cut
Is Cheaper Exterior Cleaning a Risk?
It can be.
Cut-price exterior cleaning often results in:
- Paint damage
- Water intrusion
- Faster regrowth
- Short-lived results
Repairs caused by poor cleaning usually cost far more than the original saving.
Does Exterior Cleaning Pricing Include Chemicals?
Yes — professional pricing includes:
- Correct cleaning solutions
- Proper dilution
- Safe application
- Rinsing and runoff control
Using the right products correctly is part of what you’re paying for.
Does Access Equipment Affect Price?
Absolutely.
If a job requires:
- Harness systems
- Roof anchors
- Special ladders
- Extended setup time
The price reflects the additional labour and safety requirements.
Is Exterior Cleaning Cheaper When Services Are Combined?
Often, yes.
Bundling services like:
- House washing + gutter cleaning
- Roof treatment + gutter cleaning
- Driveway + patio cleaning
Can reduce setup time and lower overall cost compared to booking services separately.
How Long Does Exterior Cleaning Take?
Time is a major pricing factor.
Typical ranges:
- House washing: 1.5–3 hours
- Roof treatment: 1–2 hours
- Gutter cleaning: 1–2 hours
- Water blasting: varies widely
More time = higher cost, but also better results.
Why Do Professionals Inspect Before Pricing?
Because accurate pricing requires understanding:
- Surface condition
- Access limitations
- Safety requirements
- Time involved
Quotes based purely on guesswork often lead to:
- Unexpected price changes
- Incomplete work
- Rushed jobs
Is Exterior Cleaning Worth the Cost?
Yes — when done properly.
Regular exterior cleaning:
- Extends paint and roof lifespan
- Prevents leaks and moisture damage
- Protects property value
- Reduces long-term maintenance costs
It is preventative maintenance, not cosmetic spending.
How Often Should Exterior Cleaning Be Budgeted For?
General guidelines:
- House washing: annually
- Roof treatment: every 2–3 years
- Gutter cleaning: annually (or 6-monthly for high-risk homes)
- Hard surfaces: as needed
Planning ahead avoids surprise expenses.
How Can I Get an Accurate Quote?
The best way is to:
- Provide clear property details
- Mention access or height issues
- Book a professional assessment
This ensures fair pricing and no surprises.
Request a Quote for Exterior Cleaning
If you want accurate pricing based on your property — not guesswork — the next step is simple.
👉 Request a Quote:
https://www.metrowaterblasting.co.nz/
📞 Call anytime:
0800 997 997