Back in December, I took the leap into running my own business. Since then, Matt’s Pressure Wash has been going strong, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. From customer interactions to improving my technique, every job has been an opportunity to refine my approach and deliver an even better service.
Here are a few key lessons from my first few months in business.
Local Support Makes All the Difference
One thing that has really stood out is how much communities want to support local businesses. People appreciate having a reliable, independent service in their area, and word-of-mouth recommendations have been invaluable. Seeing repeat customers and referrals from happy clients is a great reminder of why I started this in the first place.
You Don’t Need Chemicals to Get Great Results
When I first started, I assumed I’d need specialist cleaning products for every job. In reality, pressure washing alone is powerful enough to tackle most dirt, moss, and algae. Not only does this keep costs down, but it also ensures my methods are safe for pets, wildlife, and the environment.
Always Over-Estimate the Amount of Sand You Need
Re-sanding block paving after a clean is an important step in keeping it stable and looking its best. The biggest mistake? Underestimating how much sand is required. I quickly learned to always have extra on hand – it’s better to have too much than to run short mid-job.
Watch Where the Spray is Going
One particularly tough lesson came from a job where I had to clean up a driveway full of small stones after the spray left them dirty instead of washing them away. Now, I always take a moment to assess the surroundings before I start to ensure the spray isn’t pushing dirt somewhere it shouldn’t be.
Keep It Tidy as You Go
It’s easy to focus on the job at hand and forget about tidying up along the way, but I’ve found that cleaning as I go makes a big difference. Not only does it keep the workspace safer and more efficient, but it also ensures that the final result is as impressive as possible.
Customers Make the Best Tea
One of the best parts of the job is meeting great people, and I’ve been lucky to work with some fantastic customers. Many are kind enough to offer a cup of tea, and I can confidently say that customers make some of the best brews around. It’s a small gesture, but it makes the job even more enjoyable.
Treat Every Home Like Your Own
A customer’s home is their pride and joy, and I always approach each job with that in mind. Whether it’s taking extra care around delicate features or ensuring every surface is left spotless, I treat every property as if it were my own. That level of care is what keeps customers happy and ensures they recommend my service to others.
Looking Ahead
These first few months have been a learning curve, but they’ve also been incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful for the support from my customers and excited to continue growing Matt’s Pressure Wash. If you’re in Bury St. Edmunds and need your driveway, patio, or path refreshed, I’d love to help.
Thanks for following along on this journey – I’ll be sharing more updates, tips, and insights as I go!
Matt's Pressure Wash 