5 Tips for Pressure Washing Concrete Driveways

The best way to keep your concrete driveway looking fresh and new is to regularly ensure that you are cleaning it. Your driveway is continually subjected to dirt through the presence of vehicles as well as foot traffic and you may find that simply keeping it well swept and occasionally applying a detergent simply isn’t doing the job. If that is the case, then we would recommend using a pressure washer. A pressure washer does exactly what it says on the tin; a high-pressure spray of water is released in a concentrated manner that, through force, removes dirt residue and grime. To ensure you are pressure washing your tarmac and asphalt driveway effectively, follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Area

Before you begin to pressure wash your driveway you need to give it a good brush to ensure that any loose dirt, debris or dust is removed. A stiff bristled brush is ideal for this. It is also a good idea to ensure that your drive is clear of any unnecessary items. Naturally you will have thought to remove vehicles but have you considered innocuous items such as dustbins and planters? The entire space making up your driveway should be clear and swept before you begin. Additionally, cover any doors and windows with plastic sheeting or tarp to protect them from debris that may become loose during the cleaning process.

Degrease the Surface

Applying a degreaser to your driveway before you start will loosen any accumulated stains making it easier for you to pressure wash them away. Some pressure washers come with an attachment tool for applying a degreaser but if yours doesn’t, then simply spray over the surface then rub down with a stiff bristled brush before beginning.

Prepare Pressure Washer

It’s always a good idea to read the manual before you start this process, and we would suggest doing this before you even begin step number 1. Once you have prepared the surface, it is time to get your pressure hose ready. Generally this means connecting the spray wand to your washer using a pressure hose, and then the washer to a water source such as a garden tap. Your washer should have a number of different nozzles which serve certain purposes i.e. one for applying detergent, one for rinsing and one for the high pressure spray.

Wash Your Driveway

Firstly, apply detergent to your driveway. For this, it is probably a good idea to wear safety gloves and old clothing in case any splashes up onto you. Hold the washer between 10-15 inches off the concrete and try to maintain a consistent distance. Work in a symmetrical pattern and overlap each stroke by a couple of inches. Leave the detergent for approximately 5 minutes. Now it’s time for the pressure wash; working in the same pattern as above, use the high pressure nozzle to wash your driveway. If you come across a tough stain, move the pressure washer closer for a more intense clean. Make sure you thoroughly rinse away all of the detergent.

Allow to Dry

You should allow the concrete to dry fully before you allow any vehicles to come onto the driveway. This may take a full day, but in warmer weather will be much faster. If you want the effects of your pressure wash to be longer lasting you can apply a sealant once the concrete has completely dried. Use a long-handled roller for the application of this.