Unlike other ventures, starting a pressure washing business has a high chance of succeeding. This is because it doesn’t need lengthy learning or certification. Besides, upfront entry costs for gear, equipment, and payroll are considerably low. This is the same for the operational costs that make it easier to make profits quickly.
If you look at the current market, you will realize that the demand for power washing service is soaring day by day. When properly managed, this kind of business will provide you with a solid income flow. According to statistics, by 2022, the global cleaning services market will have reached $74 billion. This milestone will make the power washing business a stable and safe business opportunity that will attract thousands of people.
With that said, launching a pressure washing business is always a good decision. However, for your business to succeed, you have to start on the right foot.
More importantly, for things to go well, it requires proper planning.
The road to a successful business has highs and lows, and this isn’t an exception for the pressure washing sector. So how do you ensure you navigate these rough waters safely? Here is a guide to help you see the light:
Hone Your Skills
To be successful in any business, you need to have an idea of what it is all about. For example, in the pressure washing business case, you need to learn how to use a pressure washer. You need to understand that it is not just a matter of holding the pressure washer down your driveway but instead learning to use it carefully without destroying the surroundings.
You also need to know how to use the equipment in spots that are hard to reach.
Therefore, before finally opening your business, borrow or rent a pressure washer and sharpen your skills. In addition, you could incorporate YouTube tutorials in your learning provided you maintain safety tips to avoid any injuries.
So, even though you may have people working for you, you first need to be an expert.
Set Up Your Business
To properly set up your power washing business, you will require insurance, permits, and the proper licenses. You should, however, note that different states have different laws and regulations regarding permits. For this reason, it is wise to consult your county clerk or local licensing office so they can tell you about the requirements.
The first step in setting up your business is giving it a name and buying a matching domain name. Because this name will become your web address, it is essential to check its relevance to your business name.
Now that your business name is in place, getting a license is next. You can collect it from the local, state, or federal government. Afterward, you need to register the company for taxation purposes. First, ensure you learn all about the taxes you will need to pay.
Doing thorough research on taxes helps you comply with tax laws. In addition, it ensures you make the appropriate payments at the right time.
Insurance is another aspect that you shouldn’t overlook as you set up your business. The future is uncertain, and you do not want your business suffering losses that are preventable.
Experts recommend purchasing liability insurance, equipment insurance, and workers’ compensation. See to it that your insurance covers property damages that could happen as you work.
The last step is opening a bank account for your business. A business account will help you separate your assets from those of the company. This is a necessary procedure if you want to protect your personal assets. It also makes tax filing and accounting a whole lot easier.
Another crucial thing to remember when it comes to your business bank account is to ensure you get a business credit card to consolidate all your business expenses. In addition, it helps with your register, making it easier to raise funds in the future.
Buy Pressure Washing Equipment
It isn’t uncommon for many pressure washing business owners to start by renting equipment. However, you will get more customers in the long run, so you need to get your equipment.
Here are some of the equipment you will need for your business:
- Pressure washing gear: They include pressure washers, engines, pumps, chemicals, and nozzles, among others
- A van or truck for hauling purposes
- Work uniforms, preferably overalls
Set Your Fees
One of the critical determinants of the success of your business is pricing. You, therefore, need to do a background check on the appropriate charges for your services. Prices could vary depending on the nature of the surfaces that need cleaning.
For instance, cleaning the driveway doesn’t cost the same as cleaning the exterior side of your home. Also, the cost of cleaning boats and semi-trucks could be double that of vehicle cleaning.
Market Like a Pro
One way to create awareness for your business is by using social media channels.
Social media will come in handy when starting your pressure washing business. It is essential to have an account on each platform to build a strong presence.
Here is what building a social media presence will do for you:
- Build a credible reputation
- Increase brand awareness
- Attract target market
- Connect with like-minded professionals
- Diversify your marketing efforts
- Drive traffic to your website
If you wish to get in touch with customers and prospects, the best way to do so is via social media. Use it properly to escalate your sales.
The truth is that posting regularly could be tedious, but you do not have to worry about this as there are free tools you could use to automate this process.
How do you ensure social media works for you? First, list down some of your top marketing objectives, then evaluate how you can achieve them using social media. Trust that it’ll help you reach your goals.
Once you incorporate successful marketing, it is time to make long-term goals for your business. Starting and running a pressure washing business can be a challenging feat sometimes, but you’ll crack the system with the help of this guide.
