How to Start a Pressure Washing Business: Part Two from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to speak to customers and close new business
Estimate jobs and present packages to increase average sales
Scheduling jobs to increase productivity
How to implement automated bidding software for maximum profit

Customer relationship management
Step-by-step on the job procedures
How to clean houses, roofs, decks and fences, and more

How to speak to customers and close new business
Estimate jobs and present packages to increase average sales
Scheduling jobs to increase productivity
How to implement automated bidding software for maximum profit
Customer relationship management
Step-by-step on the job procedures
How to clean houses, roofs, decks and fences, and more

Syllabus

Downstreaming and Softwashing are terms used in the pressure washing industry that can become confusing. In this course we discuss the difference, and similarities with each. This allows you to decide which system will be needed to best suit your business model.

Using a pressure washer to apply chemicals and cleaning agents to houses, buildings, cars, boats or whatever else you get hired to clean.

Softwash systems give you more flexibility in the potency of cleaning agent mixtures that you can be apply for different applications.

Implement best practices when answering your business phone. Projecting a professional persona from the instant you speak to a new customer will build trust and confidence. Having a set procedure will help you or anyone answer the phone for you collect the data you need while making the customer believe they've made the right choice in pressure washing companies.

Learn how to estimate 90% of your jobs without having to visit the property.

Learn how to stay organized. Developing a scheduling method ensures new business doesn't fall through the cracks, especially when things start to get busy.

Automated bidding software will provide a tool for customers to acquire their own bid and schedule themselves without ever speaking with you or your team.

Google Earth and Zillow.com allow you to view potential customer properties without having to spend money and time visiting them in person.

Greeting your customers is the first thing you do upon arriving at the job location. What should you do and what should you say when you first arrive on site?

Step-by-step procedures to implement prior to washing a home.

Step-by-step procedures for working by yourself.

Learn best practices for working with a helper or training a team to work together.

Step-by-step procedures for cleaning concrete driveways, sidewalks, and porches

If you've ever used a pressure washer before, you understand that water is required. Sometimes you may need a lot of water. The water supply system I'm presenting here allows you to tap into your customers water source and direct that water to a buffer tank on the trailer. Since you arrive to your customers house or commercial build with a full buffer tank, the water you're pulling from your customer is being used to clean their home.

Softwash systems will also need a water supply so the buffer tank will provide a source of water to both the pressure washer and the softwash system.

The water supply system consist of a buffer tank, hudson float valve, hose reel and 100' of garden hose, and some bulkhead fittings that allow you to feed the other systems.

In this video we mount the water supply hose reel to the mounting plates. We also go over what a hudson float valve is and how it's installed.

Install the hudson valve and hooking up the water hose from the hose reel to the float valve mounted in the buffer tank. We'll also talk through strapping the tank down to the trailer deck.

Introduction to an entry level sized pressure washer perfect for a starting on a budget. You'll learn about the 4 Gallon Per Minute (GPM) at 4200 Pounds Per Square Inch (PSI) pressure washer i started with.

We'll also talk through mounting the machine to the trailer.

Having a bypass system for the downstream injector allows you to easily "bypass" the injector to stop the flow of soap and provide the full force of the pressure washer during high pressure operations.

This system is not necessary but is recommended for a professional setup.

In this lesson we'll focus on connecting the buffer tank to the pressure washer. This connection will include installing a shut off valve and an inline "Y" type strainer to ensure no large contaminants get into the pump possibly destroying the pump's seals.

Part 2 is a continuation of the how to connect the buffer tank to your pressure washer.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides step-by-step guidance on operating a pressure washing business, from customer interaction to job completion, which is essential for new business owners

Explores the differences between downstreaming and soft washing, enabling informed decisions about which system best suits a business model, which is useful for business planning

Covers estimating jobs and presenting packages to increase average sales, which is a core skill for maximizing profitability in a service-based business

Discusses building a pressure washing rig, requiring some mechanical abilities, which may pose a challenge for those without prior experience in equipment assembly

Teaches how to implement automated bidding software for maximum profit, which may require a subscription or purchase of software, adding to the initial investment

Requires learners to have access to a pressure washer and related equipment, which may be a barrier to entry for some students

Reviews summary

Practical operations and rig building guide

According to learners, this course provides practical, actionable guidance essential for the operational side of a pressure washing business. Students found the sections on estimating and closing business, as well as step-by-step procedures for field work and cleaning different surfaces, to be particularly valuable. The course covers key industry concepts like downstreaming vs softwashing and introduces automated bidding software and CRM. While it offers a solid foundation in building a professional rig setup and understanding its systems, some reviewers noted that the rig building instructions could benefit from more detail or visual aids for beginners. Overall, it is considered a strong resource for those serious about professional pressure washing, building effectively on the foundation of Part One.

Explains different washing systems clearly.

"The explanation of downstreaming versus softwashing was clear and helped me choose the right system."

"Understanding the different components of a pressure washing rig was well explained."

"Gave me a good grasp of the water supply, high-pressure, and low-pressure systems."

Provides helpful tips for estimating jobs.

"The section on estimating jobs and presenting packages was a game changer for my business."

"Learning to estimate jobs without visiting properties is a huge time saver."

"Practical tips on closing new business helped me increase my booking rate."

Offers practical steps for day-to-day work.

"This course offers valuable, practical steps for handling field operations and customer interactions."

"I learned exactly what to do from arriving at a job to collecting payment."

"The step-by-step guides for cleaning different surfaces are incredibly useful on the job."

Some details on rig building could improve.

"While the rig building section is covered, it could use more specific diagrams or a clearer parts list."

"I found the explanation for plumbing the softwash system a bit confusing."

"More detailed visuals or a slower pace on the assembly steps would be beneficial for newcomers."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to Start a Pressure Washing Business: Part Two with these activities:

Review Basic Chemistry Concepts

Show steps

Reviewing basic chemistry concepts will help you better understand the chemical cleaning agents and their applications in pressure washing.

Show steps

Review notes from previous chemistry courses.
Work through practice problems on molarity and dilutions.
Research the chemical properties of common cleaning agents.

Read 'Starting a Home-Based Business' by Entrepreneur Press

Show steps

This book will help you understand the broader aspects of running a business, including marketing, finance, and legal considerations.

View Building, Marketing, and Scaling Your New... on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'Starting a Home-Based Business'.
Read the book, focusing on the sections relevant to your business goals.
Apply the concepts to your pressure washing business plan.

Read 'The Pressure Washing Guide' by Ron Musgraves

Show steps

Reading this book will provide a solid foundation in pressure washing techniques and business operations.

View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'The Pressure Washing Guide'.
Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and techniques.
Identify areas where you need more clarification and research further.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Practice Downstreaming and Softwashing Techniques

Show steps

Practicing these techniques will help you master the application of cleaning agents and understand the differences between the two methods.

Show steps

Set up a safe practice area with a variety of surfaces.
Prepare different cleaning agent mixtures for downstreaming and softwashing.
Apply the mixtures using the appropriate techniques, observing the results.
Adjust the mixtures and techniques as needed to achieve optimal cleaning.

Build a Mini Pressure Washing Rig

Show steps

Building a mini pressure washing rig will give you hands-on experience with the components and systems discussed in the course.

Show steps

Research the necessary components for a small-scale rig.
Acquire the components, such as a small pressure washer, hoses, and fittings.
Assemble the rig, following the course's instructions.
Test the rig and troubleshoot any issues.

Document Your Rig Build

Show steps

Creating a video or written guide documenting your rig build will reinforce your understanding and help others learn.

Show steps

Record videos or take photos of each step of the rig build.
Write detailed descriptions of each step, explaining the purpose and challenges.
Edit the video or compile the written guide into a cohesive presentation.
Share your documentation online or with other students.

Create a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System

Show steps

Creating a CRM system will help you manage customer interactions, track leads, and improve customer satisfaction.

Show steps

Research different CRM software options or create your own system.
Implement the CRM system, including customer data and contact information.
Develop processes for managing customer interactions and tracking leads.
Train yourself and your team on how to use the CRM system effectively.

Career center

Learners who complete How to Start a Pressure Washing Business: Part Two will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Pressure Washing Business Owner

A Pressure Washing Business Owner manages all aspects of a pressure washing business, from operations to customer acquisition. This course is invaluable for anyone looking to start or improve their pressure washing business, as it covers everything from field operations to customer engagement. The course teaches the best practices for interacting with customers, estimating jobs, and using automated bidding software to maximize profit, crucial for the pressure washing business owner. Additionally, it introduces the intricacies of building and maintaining a pressure washing rig, which enhances the business owner's ability to handle equipment-related issues. The course also details the importance of CRM ensuring that the business is managed at optimal efficiency.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pressure Washing Business Owner

Pressure Washing Technician

A Pressure Washing Technician specializes in cleaning various surfaces using high pressure washing equipment. This course provides a solid foundation in the processes, procedures, and best practices for pressure washing operations, aligning directly with the technician's daily tasks. The course details step-by-step procedures for on-the-job activities, from greeting customers to preparing the rig for different cleaning applications. A pressure washing technician will also learn about different cleaning systems such as down-streaming versus soft-washing, which is beneficial in selecting the appropriate method for each project. The course's focus on customer interaction and closing new business enhances a technician's ability to manage client relationships and increase sales.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pressure Washing Technician

Exterior Cleaning Specialist

An Exterior Cleaning Specialist focuses on cleaning the exteriors of homes and businesses using specialized techniques and equipment. This course provides a comprehensive overview of pressure washing techniques, including soft washing, which helps safely clean different exterior surfaces. The course's systematic approach to cleaning various surfaces, like houses, roofs, decks, and fences, equips the specialist with the knowledge needed to tackle a wide range of exterior cleaning projects. An exterior cleaning specialist will benefit from the course's emphasis on building a professional pressure washing rig, which ensures they understand how to maintain and repair their equipment. The ability to estimate jobs accurately and implement efficient scheduling, as taught in this course, allows the specialist to manage time and resources effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Exterior Cleaning Specialist

Mobile Cleaning Service Operator

A Mobile Cleaning Service Operator manages and operates a cleaning service that brings the cleaning equipment to the client's location. This course provides essential knowledge for optimizing field operations, handling customer interactions, and efficiently running a mobile pressure washing business. The details of rigging construction taught in this course are particularly vital, as the course teaches the components of trailers and the differences among supply, high-pressure, and low-pressure systems. The course includes instruction on estimating jobs and scheduling work, which a mobile cleaning service operator would find useful for managing their business. The course's insights into automated bidding software and customer relationship management help streamline business operations and enhance customer satisfaction for the mobile cleaning service operator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mobile Cleaning Service Operator

Property Maintenance Technician

A Property Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining the appearance and functionality of properties, often including pressure washing as part of their duties. This course provides the skills needed to professionally clean various surfaces, such as concrete driveways, sidewalks, and building exteriors. This course's section on implementing best practices when answering phones presents a professional persona and helps the technician collect the data they need while making the customer believe they've made the right choice in pressure washing companies. Knowing how to build and maintain a pressure washing rig, as covered in this course, enables the property maintenance technician to handle equipment maintenance and repairs efficiently. The course also teaches efficient scheduling and customer relationship management, which ensure properties are well-maintained and customer satisfaction is high.

See salaries and explore the career path for Property Maintenance Technician

Home Improvement Contractor

A Home Improvement Contractor oversees a variety of projects, including exterior cleaning and maintenance. This course provides valuable knowledge for contractors looking to expand their service offerings to include professional pressure washing. This course will help anyone in this role implement best practices when answering your business phone and projecting a professional persona from the instant you speak to a new customer. By learning how to estimate jobs and present packages that increase average sales, the contractor can improve their profitability. The course's overview of different cleaning systems, like down-streaming and soft-washing, equips the contractor with the expertise to choose the best method for each job. Additionally, understanding how to build and maintain a pressure washing rig helps the contractor manage equipment costs and ensure operational readiness.

See salaries and explore the career path for Home Improvement Contractor

Commercial Cleaning Supervisor

A Commercial Cleaning Supervisor oversees cleaning operations for commercial properties, including pressure washing services. This course provides the training needed to manage pressure washing teams effectively and ensure high-quality results. The course’s insights into step-by-step procedures for various cleaning tasks, such as concrete and roof cleaning, enable the supervisor to train their team and maintain consistent standards. This course provides vital training on estimating jobs and presenting packages to increase average sales. Also, the course's emphasis on safety and best practices, as well as information on automated bidding software, helps the supervisor to implement efficient systems and enhance the company's reputation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Commercial Cleaning Supervisor

Restoration Technician

A Restoration Technician specializes in restoring properties damaged by water, fire, or mold, often requiring pressure washing to clean affected areas. This course provides essential knowledge for cleaning different surfaces and understanding the nuances of various cleaning systems. The course also teaches the best practices for working with a helper or training a team to work together. This course's discussion of building your own pressure washing rig means that the specialist understands what might go wrong when you're on the job and how to fix it in the field. The course helps the restoration technician to prepare properties for further restoration work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Restoration Technician

Car Detailer

A Car Detailer specializes in cleaning and maintaining vehicles, potentially using pressure washing as one of their techniques. This course provides a foundation in pressure washing processes and systems that may be applicable to safely and effectively cleaning vehicles. The course's emphasis on different cleaning systems, such as down-streaming and soft-washing, helps car detailers choose the best methods for different vehicle surfaces. The car detailer can use the course's information on customer management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Car Detailer

Facility Manager

A Facility Manager is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of a building. This can include hiring and overseeing pressure washing service providers. This course provides Facility Managers the knowledge they need to discuss this service with pressure washing companies. Also, facility managers should develop a scheduling method that ensures new business doesn't fall through the cracks; this is taught in the course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Facility Manager

Car Wash Operator

A Car Wash Operator manages or operates a car wash facility, which may include pressure washing as part of the cleaning process. This course may be useful in understanding pressure washing systems and how to effectively clean different surfaces. The Car Wash Operator can use the customer relationship management tips.

See salaries and explore the career path for Car Wash Operator

Equipment Repair Technician

An Equipment Repair Technician specializes in fixing cleaning equipment. This course may be useful for understanding the differences between supply, high-pressure, and low-pressure systems. This is vital knowledge when disassembling and repairing cleaning systems. The course's lessons on the startup system are particularly helpful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Equipment Repair Technician

Window Cleaning Technician

A Window Cleaning Technician specializes in cleaning windows of residential and commercial buildings, and this course may broaden their understanding of exterior cleaning techniques. This course may introduce them to the differences between downstreaming and softwash and the systems used on a pressure washing rig. The window cleaning technician may find this course helpful in enhancing their skills and potentially offering additional services.

See salaries and explore the career path for Window Cleaning Technician

Real Estate Agent

A Real Estate Agent assists clients in buying, selling, or renting properties, and understanding property maintenance is valuable. This course may familiarize real estate agents with the process of pressure washing. This course's discussion of customer relationship management can help agents build relationships with clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Agent

Landscape Architect

A Landscape Architect designs outdoor spaces. This course may be useful for understanding the impact of pressure washing on different surfaces. The course's lessons in how to to clean concrete driveways, sidewalks, and porches may inform landscape architects' choice of certain hardscape materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How to Start a Pressure Washing Business: Part Two.

Alter Ego

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of the pressure washing industry, covering topics from equipment selection to cleaning techniques. It offers practical advice and real-world examples that can help you improve your pressure washing skills. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced professionals looking to expand their knowledge and refine their techniques. This book useful reference tool.

Alter Ego: A Novel

Paperback

Entrepreneur Quick Guide: Building, Marketing, and...

Save

Provides a comprehensive guide to starting and running a successful home-based business. It covers topics such as business planning, marketing, finance, and legal considerations. While not specific to pressure washing, it offers valuable insights into the general aspects of entrepreneurship. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference.

Building, Marketing, and Scaling Your New Business...

Kindle Edition

How to Start a Pressure Washing Business

Part Two

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Practical operations and rig building guide

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses