How to Power Wash Your Driveway

One of the biggest challenges with having a concrete driveway is the fact that it can get quite dirty, especially if you neglect it for years. The concrete surface can become encrusted with dirt and grime which can make it unattractive. The development of algae, moss, mold, and mildew will also make the driveway unsanitary. For this reason, you need to also care for your driveway. Doing so will not only improve your property's aesthetic appeal, but it also increases its value.

However, concrete is a porous surface which is why it can be tough to clean properly. Thankfully, cleaning this surface is possible if you use a typical pressure washer. If you can't pressure wash the surface on your own, you can always employ the services of a professional cleaning company. The professional cleaning specialist has the right equipment to perform the job efficiently and thoroughly. But if you are thinking of doing it yourself, listed below are a few tips.

Choose High Quality Pressure Washer: If you are like most homeowners, you probably don't have a pressure washer. You can consider renting a pro model or you can buy your own pressure washer but it can be quite expensive. When renting a model, make sure it is a 3,000 PSI model and also get a hot water unit.

Prepare The Driveway: You can use a stiff brush to sweep away debris and other unsavory substances from the driveway surface. Before you even start to pressure wash the driveway, you should use an affordable oil soaking mat and place it over the storm drain. Doing so will keep debris and the chemicals from the cleaning solution from getting into the water system. The oil mat will soak up the chemicals instead.

Soak The Surface With Cleaning Solution: You should mix a concrete degreaser in a pump sprayer. Apply it on greasy and dirty spots on the surface. Soak the entire surface with a cleaning solution. Let the cleaning solution sit for a few minutes, and prepare the pressure washer. You should also wear eye and hand protection as the high pressure water can do serious damage.

Wash The Driveway: As a tip, you should make short passes ahead of you as you walk around the edge of the driveway. Focus the high pressure water on areas that are extra dirty, grimy, or oily.

Rinse The Driveway: After pressure washing the area, you should rinse the concrete using low pressure water. Remember to change the tip of the pressure washer when rinsing the driveway surface.