Hey Jack, please don’t take this as criticism or negativity. I say this to help you, not harm. Also, I am in Canada, so our dollar is different. Having said that:
Averaging $50 per hour pressure washing is horrible. If that is what you are at, then I think you are doing something wrong. Either your pricing is way too low, or your methods or time management are off. While I do not charge by the hour (of course), I expect a MINIMUM of $150 per hour when pressure washing, and more often than not I make more. For example, if I think a job might take 2 hours, I will quote it for $300 plus tax at least.
Window cleaning (route work) my standard is $100 per hour.
So I don’t think it makes any sense to invest the money in pressure washing equipment to make LESS than window cleaning. Not to mention the cost of insurance, fuel, chemicals, liability, etc.
I am a solo-operator, so I don’t have to pay employees. I just think you can get more per hour window cleaning and pressure washing.
It’s a false ceiling that we create in our minds. $50 an hour sounds great until you factor EVERYTHING in that it takes to make a great business. You are not just soap and water.
Hope that helps bro.