Power washing is a quick way to clean a surface, but you should prepare the area. Clearing debris is important before power washing because runoff into storm drains is the top cause of water pollution. Power washing your driveway can prevent moss or mildew growth and increase your home’s curb appeal.
Extend the Life and Enhance the Safety of Your Driveway
Power washing technicians are a big part of your driveway maintenance routine, which removes chemicals before they can crack the surface. Oil residue and mildew buildup can reduce the friction of your driveway and make the area slippery. Stains and dirt can be dangerous to you and your car. Power washing protects you and prolongs the life expectancy of your driveway.
Prepare the Driveway
Move outside furniture and potted plants before power washing your driveway. Sweep away all debris, including stones, leaves and dirt. Plastic can protect nearby walls, doors, and plant life from debris or washer detergent.
Our power washer technicians wear safety equipment, including gloves, boots, and goggles. Spray degreasers and scrub the area with a hard brush because all driveways get some buildup over time. Check the driveway slope before operating the power washer because you want the water to move away from the worksite.
Use the Correct Nozzle
The water pressure nozzle depends on your driveway materials. Low-pressure nozzles apply the detergent and rinse bricks because high-pressure can damage the mortar. High-pressure nozzles are for rinsing rougher surfaces, such as concrete and most masonry.
Spray the Detergent
Start at the top of the driveway and move downward to let gravity move the water and chemicals. Overlap the sprays while steadily sweeping the wand back and forth. Once the detergent covers the driveway, it’ll take about 15 minutes to break down oil stains and grime.
Clean the Driveway
Once the oil, moss, and other debris break down, you can begin rinsing in the same swaying motion as before, starting from the top. The nozzle is usually up to 18 inches from the surface, but for tough stains, bring the nozzle to only a few inches away. Move the stream slower to fully remove stains, and let the driveway dry once the detergent is gone.
Seal the Driveway
Power washer technicians can use a waterproof sealer to prevent future stains. This increases the driveway’s lifespan. Use a roller with an extension pole to paint the sealer on the driveway. The waterproof sealer will need at least 24 hours to dry before anyone can walk or park on it.
Chemicals shouldn’t end up in storm drains, so always watch where runoff is heading. Our technicians know the nozzles and chemicals for each type of driveway. If you need a power wash for your sidewalk and driveway in Sterling Heights, MI, call us at Turbo Power Washing for a free same-day estimate.
