From Corporate Desk to Outdoor Success: DFW Pressure Washing & Fence Staining, LLC

From Corporate Desk to Outdoor Success: DFW Pressure Washing & Fence Staining, LLC

Article Provided by Wood Defender | Published August 2024

When Garth Griffith, owner of DFW Pressure Washing & Fence Staining, LLC, decided to leave the corporate world, he sought a change from the daily grind of reports and meetings. His transition led him to a passion for pressure washing and fence staining, which quickly evolved from a side hustle into a thriving full-time business. Today after just over a year of operation, DFW Pressure Washing & Fence Staining, LLC, is known for its high-quality service and expertise in both power washing and fence staining, largely thanks to the synergy between these two services and the support of stain brand Wood Defender™, manufactured by Standard Paints, Inc.

A LEAP OF FAITH AND DISCOVERING THE POWER OF STAIN

“I had always been in the corporate world, but I got tired of my role,” says Griffith. “So, I made the jump into pressure washing to escape the dayto-day of corporate life and start a side hustle. I loved it!” The satisfaction of seeing immediate results from a good pressure wash was a refreshing change. The business started small, aimed at providing extra income for family vacations and teaching his kids the value of hard work.

The turning point came when Griffith learned about Wood Defender and the profitability of staining fences. Once he attended their monthly training class, he decided to incorporate fence staining into his services. “Now I’m doing both wood staining fences with Wood Defender products and pressure washing fences,” he explains. This decision proved to be a game changer, transforming his side hustle into a fullfledged business, allowing him to scale up from small jobs to major contracts.

Combining power washing with staining creates a comprehensive service that enhances property value and

aesthetics. “Everybody likes their property to look good,” Griffith notes. “With both power washing and fence staining, customers are looking to spruce up their backyard with fences, pergolas, decks, shutters, cedar posts, and beyond.” This combination not only beautifies outdoor spaces but also increases property value.

Initially, the business focused on smaller residential jobs, but it quickly expanded. Griffith began taking on large projects, including new home developments and subcontracting work for roofing companies dealing with storm damage. “I’ve done quite

a few big jobs—10,000 to 15,000 square feet of HOA—new build home developments,” he recalls. His reputation for quality work spread, leading to partnerships with multiple roofing companies and general contractors who needed his services for their existing customers. Soon, his jobs went from 75 percent pressure washing and 25 percent staining to 90 percent staining and 10 pecent pressure washing.

TIPS, TRICKS & TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Griffith uses a range of cleaning solutions and Wood Defender Fence & Exterior Stains, including both their

transparent and semi-transparent stains. “Wood Defender products are easy to use and long lasting, while EZ Kleen™ by Wood Defender is essential for keeping my job sites clean when I’m staining,” he says. Although he keeps some trade secrets to himself, the high-quality stains from Wood Defender play a crucial role in his business.

Working with Wood Defender has allowed Griffith to not only jumpstart his stain business but scale it. “Wood Defender is a great company. They make a great product and stand behind it,” he says. Their support and expertise have been invaluable as he grew his business.

Customer education and word-of-mouth referrals are also key to Griffith’s business model. He places nameplates on fences after completing jobs, ensuring future clients know who to call. “The way I go about getting customers is pretty much word of mouth,” he shares. His reputation for excellence has led to a growing list of satisfied customers. For Griffith, the most rewarding aspects of his work are being outdoors and meeting new people. He enjoys helping homeowners choose the perfect stain for their fences and seeing the transformation from before to after. “Customers always take before and after pictures,” he says. “It’s very satisfying!”

Looking ahead, Griffith plans to continue expanding his business. Since starting in June 2022, he has already invested in additional equipment—he now owns three ST-250 stain machines manufactured by Wood Defender as well as two pressure washing machines—and is considering hiring more help to meet growing demand. “The business has grown to the point where I can’t keep up— it’s a good problem!” he exclaims.

For those considering a career in pressure washing or fence staining, Griffith offers simple advice: hustle and diversify. “There’s lots of money to be made. If you want something, you have to go get it,” he advises. By promoting both pressure washing and fence staining, aspiring entrepreneurs can expand their customer base and maximize profit potential.

With the right tools and products, vendor support, and a can-do attitude, success is inevitable. In the end Griffith’s journey from the corporate world to outdoor success is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the potential for growth in the pressure washing and staining industry.

To attend Wood Defender’s monthly training class free, use code CLEANER2024 when you register online at https://wood defender.com/outdoor-business-opportunities/training/ or call 800-658-KOTE.