It’s the time of year for getting your outside space cleaned up, but what are the potential pitfalls of pressure washing a tarmac or asphalt driveway, and what are the tips you need to know to do it right?
At Premier Surfacing, we’re a professional
surfacing company based in Market Drayton and covering Staffordshire, Shropshire and Cheshire. We’re often asked about the best way to maintain
tarmac driveways. Here’s what you need to know before you get the pressure washer out…
The Risks of Pressure Washing Tarmac or Asphalt
While pressure washing can lift away moss, algae, and dirt, it's not without its dangers when it comes to tarmac or asphalt surfaces. These materials are not as hard as concrete; they’re made from aggregates bound together with bitumen. This means high-pressure water can cause damage if you're not careful.
Potential issues when pressure washing tarmac driveways include:
- Surface damage: Too much pressure can loosen the aggregate or strip away the protective top layer of bitumen.
- Lines/stripes: A common issue is the formation of "lines/stripes” or streaks if not done correctly. This happens when pressure washing with the pressure too high removes the top crème layer.
- Pitting and cracks: Persistent water jetting in one spot can create small pits or worsen any existing cracks.
- Fading: Aggressive cleaning can make the surface look patchy or faded by stripping away the top layer.
How to Pressure Wash Tarmac or Asphalt Driveways Properly
If you’re set on freshening up your driveway, it’s important to go about it the right way:
- Use a lower pressure setting: Keep the pressure low — no more than around 1,300 PSI — to prevent surface damage.
- Use a wide nozzle: A fan or wide-spray nozzle distributes the force more gently and avoids concentrating water in one spot.
- Keep the nozzle moving: Always keep the jet moving evenly across the surface. Hovering in one place can cause damage.
- Pre-treat stains: For oil stains or stubborn patches, use a gentle tarmac-safe detergent first rather than relying on pressure alone.
- Seal after cleaning: Once clean, consider having your driveway resealed to restore protection and keep it looking its best for longer. A surfacing specialist such as Premier Surfacing can help with this.
Thinking About Giving Your Driveway a Facelift?
If your tarmac or asphalt driveway really is looking tired and could use a bit of a facelift, Premier Surfacing can help. With over 20 years of experience in the driveway installation industry, our skilled professionals bring expertise and precision to every project.
We understand the nuances of each material and tailor our services to meet your specific requirements.
Contact us today for friendly advice and a no-obligation quote.
