How to Choose a Professional Power Washing Service in Chicago: 5 Expert Tips That Work

Why Choosing the Right Power Washing Service in Chicago Matters

Have you ever hired a service to clean your property, only to be left with uneven results—or worse, damaged surfaces? Power washing may seem straightforward, but choosing the wrong provider can lead to costly mistakes, especially for commercial properties in a city like Chicago where climate, foot traffic, and building materials vary widely.

In this guide, you’ll discover five expert tips to help you confidently hire a professional power washing service that delivers real value—without the stress. Whether you’re a property manager, business owner, or facilities supervisor, these insights will steer you toward smart decisions. Let’s dive in.

 

1. Look for Experience with Commercial Properties

While many companies offer power washing, not all are equipped to handle the scale and complexity of commercial buildings. Cleaning an office façade, storefront, or industrial lot requires more than just high pressure—it takes specialized equipment, trained staff, and the know-how to avoid damaging paint, signage, or concrete.

Experienced commercial power washing providers understand these nuances and can tailor their approach based on building material, age, and weather exposure. In cities like Chicago, where winter salt buildup and soot from traffic are common, that experience can make all the difference.

Ascent Building Services, for example, brings years of expertise serving commercial properties across Chicago, offering custom solutions for everything from parking garages to multi-unit residential buildings.

 

2. Confirm Licensing and Insurance

It’s easy to overlook paperwork when hiring a service, but this is a critical safeguard. Reputable companies should be fully licensed to operate in Chicago and carry both liability and workers’ compensation insurance. If a worker is injured on your site or something gets damaged, you don’t want that liability falling on you.

Ask directly for proof. A legitimate provider won’t hesitate to show documentation, and it’s one of the simplest ways to weed out unprofessional operators.

Chicago’s Department of Buildings and BACP make verifying a contractor’s license and insurance straightforward—ask for license numbers and proof of coverage, and then check with your city authority to be safe. 

 

3. Ask About Eco-Friendly Cleaning Methods

Pressure washing uses water—lots of it—but that doesn’t mean it has to be harmful to the environment. Today’s best providers use EPA-compliant, biodegradable cleaning agents that break down safely while still lifting stubborn dirt, mold, and grime.

Eco-friendly cleaning not only protects local ecosystems and water systems but also reduces the risk of damaging sensitive building materials or landscaping. This is especially important in busy urban areas like Chicago, where runoff can flow directly into the city’s storm drains.

Ask your service provider about their water usage practices, chemical solutions, and runoff containment measures. A green approach is a sign of professionalism and long-term thinking.

 

4. Review Their Portfolio and Customer Feedback

A picture is worth a thousand words—so is a good review. Before hiring, browse the provider’s website for before-and-after photos or case studies. More importantly, check their Google reviews, Yelp profile, or local business directories to gauge customer satisfaction.

Look for:

• Consistency in service quality
• Positive mentions of professionalism, punctuality, and results
• Transparent pricing and communication
• How the company handles complaints

Poor or missing reviews can be a red flag. On the other hand, a strong track record signals reliability and attention to customer needs.

 

5. Understand Their Pricing and Scope of Work

Price matters, but clarity matters more. Always ask for a detailed estimate that outlines what’s included in the service: which surfaces will be cleaned, whether prep work is needed, and if sealing or follow-up visits are offered.

Low quotes can be misleading if they leave out key services or add fees later. A reputable company will take the time to explain their process and provide a customized plan that fits your property’s specific needs—without vague or confusing terms.

At Ascent Building Services, transparent pricing and clear service scopes are part of every project, ensuring you know exactly what you’re paying for—and why it’s worth it.

 

Why Chicago Experience Matters

Chicago properties face unique challenges: winter salt corrosion, industrial soot, high pedestrian traffic, and shifting weather patterns. Hiring a team familiar with these conditions ensures your building gets the right treatment every time.

Local professionals also understand city codes, permitting, and neighborhood-specific needs—especially important if you manage buildings in areas like River North, Hyde Park, or The Loop.

 

Trust Ascent Building Services for Your Power Washing Needs

Choosing a power washing service doesn’t have to feel like a gamble. With these five expert tips, you’re better equipped to make a confident decision—and protect your investment.

If you’re looking for a reliable, eco-conscious, and experienced team in Chicago, Ascent Building Services is here to help. We offer tailored power washing solutions for commercial clients, backed by years of local experience and a commitment to quality.

Let’s talk about your next cleaning project—request a quote today and discover the Ascent difference.