Driveways are one of the most used areas of a property. As cars come in and out each day, the surface can become stained, cracked, or faded. Regular maintenance is important to keep normal wear and tear under control.
If your driveway is already looking dull and dirty, it’s time to give it a good cleaning. Driveway pressure washing is a good investment as it can boost the curb appeal of your home.
Why You Need Driveway Pressure Washing
It’s normal for a driveway to experience some wear and tear. Over time, the surface becomes exposed to fluids, water, and other elements that can affect the appearance of your driveway. Here are the different types of stains that Power washing Genie can remove from your driveway:
- Mold
- Mildew
- Hard water
- Dirt
- Tire Marks
- Oil
- Brake fluid
- Rust
- Transmission fluid
- Paint
Common Problems With Concrete and How to Address
ThemConcrete can suffer from all sorts of contaminants, requiring you to adjust your approach to cleaning these surfaces. Here are the common issues with concrete surfaces and how to clean them:
Dirt, Dust, and Debris
To begin, sweep off any loose dirt, dust, or debris. Use a 2,500-PSI pressure level to start, adjusting the intensity for more stubborn filth. The use of a laundry detergent may also be necessary. After applying the detergent and allowing it to sit for a few minutes, rinse it off using a 25-degree nozzle tip.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew can significantly damage concrete driveways, so it’s important to address these growths before they get out of hand. Use a mold and mildew detergent and apply it with a brush on the concrete surface. An alternative solution is to use a mixture of household bleach and water. Allow it to soak for a few minutes to kill all the mold and mildew before rinsing it off using a 25-degree nozzle.
Oil, Grease, and Brake Fluids
Oil and grease naturally accumulate on a concrete driveway after some time. To get rid of these stains, use a degreaser or concrete cleaner on the concrete surface. Then, use a strong detergent to remove any remnants or stubborn oil stains. Rinse it off using hot water and a 2,500-PSI pressure level fitted with a 25-degree nozzle tip, adjusting as necessary.
Rust
Begin the rust removal process by cleaning the concrete driveway with soap and water. Lemon juice often works on minor rust stains. Let the juice sit on the driveway for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the acid to work its magic. For major rust stains, a rust remover with oxalic acid or trisodium phosphate may be necessary. Then, using a brush, scrub the stain away before rinsing it off using a 25-degree nozzle.
Tire or Skid Marks
Skid marks make for an unappealing driveway. To get rid of these, start by applying a degreaser directly on the tire or skid marks and let it sit for 30 minutes without allowing it to dry. Then, scrub the area using a stiff brush for a cleaner result. Finally, use a 2,500-PSI pressure washer and a 25-degree nozzle to wash off the solution.
How to Pressure Wash Driveways
While your driveway isn’t the most delicate area of your home, it still deserves expert cleaning performed with care.
Inspection
Power washing Genie inspects the driveway for any cracks and hazards. This is done prior to washing to avoid further damages. We then provide you with a report and a quote to repair.
Preparation
Make sure to clear your driveway of any debris and loose dirt, sweeping them away to create a blank canvas.
Protection
Any doors, windows, or openings nearby should be covered to prevent water or detergent from entering your home.
Degreasing
Grease can negatively affect the outcome of pressure washing. As such, we spray a degreaser all over your driveway first, maintaining a distance of 6 inches, before scrubbing it onto the surface with a stiff brush.
Detergent
It takes more than just water to effectively clean your driveway. Power washing Genie uses strong detergents that can knock contaminants from your driveway without compromising its quality. Spray the detergent all over your driveway, maintaining a distance of 8 to 18 inches. Allow this detergent to sit before washing it down.
Nozzle
To effectively clean your concrete driveway without damaging it, it is recommended to use a 25-degree nozzle tip kept at a minimum of 8 inches from the surface. For more stubborn filth or stains, move the tip closer to about 3 to 4 inches from the surface.
Sealant
No driveway pressure washing job is complete without the application of a waterproof sealer. A sealant can extend the lifespan of your concrete driveway, though it must stand for 24 hours without a car parked on its surface.
Striping
Apartment complexes with multiple driveways or parking lots can benefit from striping services. Striping serves as a visual guidance system of sorts for drivers, keeping them safe and preventing cars from scraping one another.
Effective Equipment
Power washing Genie uses professional-grade pressure washing equipment. Using pressurized water, we can thoroughly clean dirt and grime on your driveway.
Peace of Mind
Power washing Genie knows how to take care of your driveway so that you won’t have to deal with expensive repairs and resurfacing down the line.
Environment-Friendly Products
We use cleaning products that are hard on stubborn stains but gentle on the environment.
High-Quality Service
With many years of experience, we have developed the best pressure washing techniques. We use the appropriate water temperature and pressure that your driveway needs.
