Take a look at your driveway right now. If you're like most Scarborough homeowners after a Toronto winter, there's a layer of road salt residue, oil drips from the car, dark patches of algae where moisture sits, and that general grey-brown film that makes everything look 10 years older than it is.
The good news: a professional pressure wash takes 1-3 hours and makes your driveway, patio, and walkways look brand new. Here's what it costs, when to book, and how to make sure you're hiring someone who won't damage your surfaces.
What Does Pressure Washing Cost in Scarborough? (2026 Prices)
Pricing depends on the surface type, total area, and condition. Here's what Scarborough homeowners are paying in 2026:
| Surface | Typical Size | Price Range | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driveway (concrete/interlock) | 300-500 sq ft | $200–$350 | $275 |
| Patio / Back deck (concrete) | 150-300 sq ft | $150–$250 | $200 |
| Wood deck | 200-400 sq ft | $200–$400 | $300 |
| Walkways & front steps | 50-150 sq ft | $75–$150 | $100 |
| House siding (vinyl/brick) | 1,000-2,000 sq ft | $400–$800 | $550 |
| Fence (wood or vinyl) | 100-200 linear ft | $200–$400 | $275 |
| Garage floor | 200-400 sq ft | $125–$250 | $175 |
What Surfaces Can (and Can't) Be Pressure Washed?
✅ Safe to Pressure Wash
- Concrete driveways & walkways — The most common request. Handles up to 3,000 PSI. Results are dramatic.
- Interlocking brick / pavers — Use lower PSI (1,500-2,000) to avoid dislodging sand between pavers. Resanding may be needed after.
- Vinyl siding — Low-pressure (soft wash) at 1,200-1,500 PSI. Removes dirt, mildew, and oxidation without damage.
- Brick and stone — Medium pressure works well. Avoid on old/deteriorating mortar.
- Wood decks — Low pressure (1,200-1,500 PSI) with a fan tip. Critical: pressure too high will splinter the wood.
- Metal fences and railings — Removes rust prep and grime. Often done before repainting.
⚠️ Avoid or Use Caution
- Painted wood — High pressure will strip paint. Only do this if you're preparing to repaint.
- Old or crumbling brick — Pressure can dislodge mortar. Many older Scarborough homes (1950s-70s) have softer brick that needs low-pressure or soft washing only.
- Asphalt shingles — Never pressure wash your roof. It strips granules and voids warranties. Soft wash or manual cleaning only.
- Windows — Pressure washers can crack or break glass. Windows should be cleaned separately with proper tools.
- Stucco — Can force water behind the surface and cause mold. Needs soft wash technique only.
When to Book Pressure Washing in Scarborough
| Season | Why Book Now | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April–May) | Remove winter salt, sand, oil. Biggest visual transformation. | Driveways, walkways, garage floors |
| Early Summer (June) | Prep for BBQ season and outdoor entertaining. | Patios, decks, fences |
| Fall (September–October) | Remove summer buildup before winter. Pre-listing prep. | Siding, full exterior cleanup |
Pro tip: April is the sweet spot. Temperatures are above freezing (water won't ice up on your driveway), winter grime is at its worst, and you beat the summer rush when everyone remembers they need it done for their backyard party.
Scarborough-Specific Challenges
Scarborough homes face some unique pressure washing situations:
- Road salt damage: Homes near Kingston Rd, Ellesmere, Lawrence Ave E, and Morningside get heavy salt spray all winter. This leaves white mineral deposits on driveways, walkways, and lower siding that don't come off with a garden hose.
- Mature trees: Neighbourhoods like Highland Creek, Guildwood, and the Bluffs area have dense tree canopy. Driveways and patios under trees develop algae, moss, and tannin stains faster.
- Interlock driveways: Very common in newer Scarborough developments (especially Malvern, Rouge, and Port Union). Interlock needs lower pressure and may need joint sand replaced afterward — make sure your service knows this.
- Older concrete: Many Scarborough driveways are 30-50 years old. Aged concrete is more porous and can be damaged by excessive pressure. A professional will test a small area first.
- Oil stains: Extremely common. Standard pressure washing removes surface oil, but deep stains may need pre-treatment with a degreaser. Ask about this upfront — some companies charge extra, others include it.
How to Choose a Pressure Washing Company in Scarborough
- Insurance is mandatory. Pressure washers can break windows, damage siding, and injure bystanders with flying debris. Minimum $2 million liability. Ask for proof.
- Ask about their PSI settings. A company that uses "one pressure for everything" will damage your deck. Good operators adjust PSI per surface (1,200 for wood, 2,500+ for concrete).
- Check if they seal after washing. Concrete sealing after pressure washing protects the surface and keeps it clean longer. Some companies offer it as an add-on. It's worth it for driveways.
- Get a written quote with surfaces listed. "Pressure wash the house" is too vague. You want: driveway (concrete, ~400 sq ft), back patio (interlock, ~200 sq ft), front walkway (~80 sq ft). Specific surfaces, specific pricing.
- Ask about water runoff. Dirty water has to go somewhere. Good companies direct runoff away from gardens, storm drains, and neighbours' properties. In Toronto, discharging certain contaminants into storm drains is a bylaw violation.
DIY vs Professional: Is It Worth Hiring Someone?
| Factor | DIY (Rental) | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (driveway) | $75–$125/day rental + gas | $200–$350 |
| Time | 3–5 hours (learning curve) | 1–2 hours |
| Risk of damage | High (wrong PSI, wrong tip) | Low (trained + insured) |
| Results | Good with practice | Professional-grade |
| Hauling equipment | You pick up + return | They bring everything |
| Multiple surfaces | Same price per day | Discounts on bundles |
Bottom line: DIY makes sense if you already own a pressure washer and you're only doing one flat concrete surface. For multiple surfaces, decks, siding, or if you value your Saturday — hire a pro. The price difference is $100-$200, and you eliminate the risk of damaging something that costs $5,000 to repair.
Ready for a Fresh Driveway This Spring?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pressure washing cost in Scarborough?
Professional pressure washing in Scarborough ranges from $150–$500 depending on the surface. Driveways average $200–$350, patios $150–$250, decks $200–$400, and full house siding $400–$800. Bundle multiple surfaces for discounts.
When is the best time for pressure washing in Scarborough?
April through June is ideal. Spring cleaning removes winter salt, road grime, and algae buildup. Temperatures are warm enough for effective cleaning but you beat the summer rush. Fall (September–October) is great too for pre-winter prep.
Can pressure washing damage my driveway or deck?
Yes, if done incorrectly. Too much pressure on wood causes splintering; too much on old concrete causes etching. Professional services adjust PSI per surface — 1,200–1,500 for wood, 2,500–3,000 for concrete, 1,200 for vinyl siding. This is the main reason to hire a pro.
How often should I pressure wash my Scarborough home?
Once a year is the minimum for driveways and patios. Surfaces under heavy tree canopy or near busy roads may need it twice. Decks benefit from annual spring cleaning to prevent wood rot and maintain stain/finish.
Is pressure washing worth it for curb appeal?
Absolutely. A clean driveway and exterior can increase your home's perceived value by 5–10%. It's one of the highest-ROI home maintenance tasks — a $250 pressure wash can make your home look $10,000–$25,000 more valuable. Real estate agents recommend it before every listing.