Exposure to the elements can result in driveways and sidewalks accumulating grime, mold and mildew causing them to look dingy, discolored, and unsightly. Whether the driveway or sidewalk is constructed of concrete or bricks pressure, cleaning is a highly effective method for clearing it of dirt and debris. Both concrete and bricks are highly porous materials with air pockets and when using a power washer on them, it is necessary to use the optimum amount of pressure that can get them cleaned without causing damage. Here are the steps you need to take.
Equipment Needed
Choose the appropriate pressure washer and nozzle tips that can clean the surface without wearing away the concrete or brick surfaces. Keep in mind that the pressure cleaning may not take more than 2 to 3 hours, but the surface may need a few days to dry and set completely.
- Power Washer: Pick out a power washer that is powered by gasoline with a light duty or medium duty pressure preferably with wheels so you can move it as you work.
- Nozzles: Get 25° tips along with the black nozzle for spraying detergent. You might also need to have a rotating scrub brush handy for tough stains.
- Brushes: You’ll need brooms to clear the worksite of loose debris and a stiff brush to clear away mildew and mold.
- Detergent: Check with the supplier for the appropriate detergent to be used on concrete or brick surfaces.
- Get the chemical degreasing agents and sealants needed along with the roller brushes for applying them.
- Tarps and tape
- Safety gear such as gloves, rubber boots, and eye goggles for protection
Prepping the Driveway
It is always advisable to choose a warm day for the pressure cleaning so that the detergent and water you use dries up quickly. If water remains trapped in the pores of the concrete or brick, it can freeze and expand, causing severe damage to the area. Also, take care to prep the driveway and the surrounding area carefully before you begin with the pressure cleaning.
- Clear the area of toys, bicycles, vehicles, furniture, and other items that can obstruct the task.
- Using a broom sweep away the loose debris, pebbles, stones, leaves, tree branches, twigs, and other detritus that can get propelled with the velocity of the water and cause damage.
- Cover the walls and windows around the worksite with tarp and secure them with tape to protect them from the spray of the water.
- If you see any open electrical outlets or fittings, cover them with waterproof tape.
- If you’re cleaning a brick driveway, check with the builder for the kind of mortar used and plan for your pressure cleaning accordingly. Take care that the force of the water does not dislodge the jointings.
- Driveways sometimes collect grease and oil from parked vehicles. Remove the stains with the help of the degreasing solution. Spray it on by holding the can six inches from the surface. Use a stiff brush to clean up the stains.
- While mold and mildew can be cleaned off with the pressure cleaner, if you see tougher stains, use a rotary brush to clear it away.
Checking the Sidewalks
Before pressure cleaning sidewalks, check them for the kind of material they are made of and figure out your cleaning strategies accordingly. Make sure to examine the area for any cracks and loose pieces that pressure washing can dislodge and damage further. Consider undertaking repairs before you begin with the cleaning.
- If the sidewalk is made of stones, you might want choose other methods of pressure cleaning because the high velocity of the water can uproot the stones.
- Asphalt sidewalks can develop cracks or become uneven with pressure cleaning. Later, these cracks can have weeds and mildew growing out of them leading to added damage.
Pressure Cleaning Procedures
Here are the steps to follow when pressure cleaning the driveway and sidewalk.
- If you’re cleaning a brick surface, make sure you dampen it with a regular garden hose to prevent the detergent from seeping into the pores of the brick.
- Connect the black detergent dispenser to the nozzle tip and apply the detergent on the surface. Begin at the lower end of the surface and spray using even sweeps in the direction of the water flow allowing for an overlap of a few inches for thorough cleaning. Keep the tip at a distance of 8 to 18 inches from the surface.
- Allow the detergent to stand for around 15 minutes. If you see it beginning to dry out, wet the surface with the garden hose. Take care that the detergent does not dry or it will cause streaking. Use the rotary brush for scrubbing if the stains are stubborn.
- Connect the hose to the pressure washer and test the water flow. Turn on the water and test the pressure on a small corner to check for effectiveness and the possibility of damage.
- Attach a 25° angle to the nozzle tip, flush away the detergent beginning at the top of the driveway. Take care not to spray directly on the mortar between bricks or you risk blasting it away. When spraying the sidewalk, begin at the inner edge and work your way towards the street.
- After the cleaned surface has dried out completely, apply the sealant. Using a long handled brush and extender pole, begin working from the center of the surface and move to the edges. The sealant you apply will help prevent future staining and keep the area maintained for a while. Allow the sealant to set for at least 24 hours before using the driveway to park vehicles. If you have just cleaned the sidewalk, you might want to put up a sign warning passers-by to avoid walking on it for a while.
Pressure cleaning and applying the sealants can have your driveway looking fresh, clean and appealing as the ideal accessory to the well-maintained home. Having a clean sidewalk can help you prevent dirt and debris entering your home when people walk through them. You can also protect neighbors and passers-by from slipping on the debris and oil stains, and possibly falling and injuring themselves. Of course, you also add to the curb appeal of your home by having a clean driveway and sidewalk.
References:
1. “The Perils of Power Washing.” PCA America’s Cement Manufacturers. n.d. Web. 6 Sept. 2016.
2. “How To Pressure Wash Your Concrete Or Brick Driveway.” Pressure Washr. n.d. Web. 6 Sept. 2016.
3. Rodriguez, Juan. “Recommended Guide for Selection of Mortar Mix Type.” the balance. 19 Feb. 2016. Web. 6 Sept. 2016.
4. Flynn, Brian Patrick. “How to Pressure Wash Your Driveway.” HGTV. n.d. Web. 6 Sept. 2016.
5. Rhodes, R.L. “Pressure Wash Your Driveway. “ The Home Depot Garden Club. n.d. Web. 6 Sept. 2016.
6. Caroline. “Pressure Washing Your Sidewalk and Driveway.” Handico. 14 Aug. 2013. Web. 10 Sep. 2016.