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November 16, 2023

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    It’s important to keep a professional look – whether you’re driving alone or a part of fleet operations, a pressure washer excels in cleaning a semi-truck.

    The typical cost of pressure washing a semi-truck ranges from $35 to $70. However, it can vary depending on the package and other relevant factors. Continue reading to know more about semi-truck pressure washing and detailing.

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    Highlights
    • A pressure washer is a powerful device that uses large amounts of water, pressurized by an engine to scrub surfaces clean.
    • Pressure washing is an option for a quick and easy way to make your fleet shine. Depending on the service provider, this can take only a few hours or even minutes.
    • You can include interior cleaning into your washing packages for a comprehensive wash-up of your fleet.

    What Is Pressure Washing?

    A pressure washer is a powerful device that uses large amounts of water, pressurized by an engine to scrub surfaces clean. You can use it for anything from removing mold on your house’s siding to getting rid of chewing gum off the ground.

    The most common pressure washer used for cleaning consists of jets. This component is what creates a uniform water pressure used to clean. Hydro-jet cleaning is a more powerful and efficient pressure cleaning for removing dirt and stain build-up.


    Should You Pressure Wash Your Semi-Truck?

    Pressure washing is an option for a quick and easy way to make your fleet shine. Depending on the service provider, this can take only a few hours or even minutes.

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    If you have plans to include pressure washing in your semi-truck maintenance, here are the advantages and disadvantages to consider.


    Pros and Cons of Pressure Washing

    Manual cleaning can be tedious and time-consuming work. If you are a person who keeps his head on efficiency, here are the highlights of what pressure washing can offer.

    After discussing the advantages of pressure washing, you might think it answers all your fleet cleaning worries. It is a superb method indeed, but it also has caveats that you should consider beforehand.

    Quick and efficient: Semi-trucks are big, dirty machines that need to be cleaned up quickly. Pressure washing these trucks makes sure it shines on the road. It can get rid of grease stains or dirt from under your hood. Plus, it does the cleaning in drastically shorter periods than manual practice.
    Reduced manual labor: The use of pressure washers eliminates a huge chunk of cleaning time and labor. Typically, you might need to double or even triple your workforce to run manual cleaning at the same cleaning rate as pressure cleaners. 
    Saves time: Large vehicles like semi-truck eat a lot of time for cleaning. In a time-sensitive service like fleet operations, time is vital. Opting for faster and more convenient pressure washers can give you more leeway for your schedule.
    Chemical variances: Pressure washing can involve non-biodegradable chemicals. Be sure to check the chemical mixture of your pressure washing service that might be harmful to your semi-truck or cargo.  Furthermore, although pressure washers are awesome for the rough cleaning work, steam cleaners can offer more value in terms of sanitation.
    Limited use cases: Pressure washing is a great way to keep your semi-truck clean and presentable. However, it can be limited to exterior cleaning and harm fabrics, leathers, or similarly pressure-sensitive materials. Unless you are cleaning a bare interior, it’s best to keep your pressure washer away from it.
    Wastes water: Pressure washers use a lot of water. On average, a 25HP pressure washer at 3000 psi can require 10 gals of water per minute. So, if you are conscious of water consumption, it shall come as your prime consideration.
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    Other Semi-Truck Washing And Detailing Factors

    If you are unfamiliar with most fleet cleaning or detailing forms, you can see here the list of factors that can affect its cost.

    Interior Detailing

    You can include interior cleaning into your washing packages for a comprehensive wash-up of your fleet. Note that the process would most likely use a different pressure or cleaner.

    Type Of Truck Washing

    The most common types of fleet washers are fixed and mobile. As a rule of thumb, any service that can give you more convenience can be more expensive. This cost-convenience relationship is evident for mobile pressure washers as they take the cleaning to your location of choice.

    Service Provider And Packages

    Brand recognition and guarantees are always part of the overall price factor. Just be certain that your cleaner’s reputation and packages match the service they provide. Otherwise, you might be missing similar packages that ask for less cash.

    Sleeper Cab Detailing

    A semi truck’s interior is different from other commercial vehicles because it has room to sleep. Detailing professionals charge more for this service and take at least three hours, if not six depending on the package they choose, plus tax.

    Waxing And Exterior Treatment

    Exterior treatment is like the shea butter lotion after you take a bath. Got the idea?  Some options can help keep your fleet’s paintwork or sheen lasting longer. To avoid unnecessary expenses, just opt for what you need and what applies to your degree of service.


    Keep It Slick And Clean

    You can look into the cost to pressure wash a semi-truck as an investment. Just like how a man buys a suit to look professional and impressive, a tidy semi-truck appeals to the same concept. 

    In fleet service, where rough roads and weathering is common, a slick truck can become what separates the real deal.

    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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    Roxanne Downer

    Editor

    Roxanne Downer is a commerce editor at Today’s Homeowner, where she tackles everything from foundation repair to solar panel installation. She brings more than 15 years of writing and editing experience to bear in her meticulous approach to ensuring accurate, up-to-date, and engaging content. She’s previously edited for outlets including MSN, Architectural Digest, and Better Homes & Gardens. An alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, Roxanne is now an Oklahoma homeowner, DIY enthusiast, and the proud parent of a playful pug.

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