Selecting pressure washing as the ultimate cleansing option for your concrete driveway is always the best idea. Having stood there for years, concrete driveways gather dirt, filthy stuff, oil stains, or perhaps mould. A pressure washer swiftly removes such unwanted things, making your driveway look brand new. But the question many homeowners have is this: Will pressure washing damage concrete driveways?
Well, yes, Pressure Washers Damage Concrete if not done right. While concrete can withstand much abuse, incorrect techniques may cause pressure washer cracks, erosion, or surface damage to a concrete driveway. This article will discuss how pressure washing affects concrete driveways, methods to avoid damage, and tips on how to keep it looking clean and last for years.
How Can Pressure Washing Damage Concrete?
1. Using Too Much Pressure
Pressure washers feature graded power levels in pound-per-square-inch (PSI) units. Typical residential pressure washers have from 1,500 to 3,000; commercial pressure washers deliver even higher levels.
If a pressure washer exceeds 3,000 PSI, damage is likely to be done to concrete driveways. High-pressure water can erode the topmost layer of concrete, leading to rough surfaces and weakened material over time.
2. Using the Wrong Nozzle
Pressure washers come with different nozzles, each designed for specific tasks. The wrong nozzle can concentrate the water pressure too much, leading to cracks and surface wear.
- 0-degree nozzle: Produces a very narrow, high-pressure stream that can etch concrete.
- 15-degree nozzle: Good for tough stains but should be used carefully.
- 25-degree nozzle: Ideal for general driveway cleaning.
- 40-degree nozzle: The safest option for concrete surfaces.
3. Holding the Wand Too Close
High-pressure water may streak the concrete or leave unevenly cleaned areas and possibly gouge the surface when the nozzle of a pressure washer is too close to the concrete. At least 12 inches above the surface will keep the proper distribution of pressure to the surface.
4. Washing Unsealed or Weak Concrete
The unsealed or aged concrete absorbs water rather rapidly, leading to cracking from the inside. Long-term damage may then be inflicted on the concrete itself from repeated pressure washing over a long period without sealing the drive.
How to Prevent Pressure Washer Damage on Concrete
To keep your driveway clean without damaging it, follow these best practices:
1. Use the Right PSI
The recommended PSI for cleaning concrete driveways is between 2,500 and 3,000 PSI. If you’re unsure, start with a lower pressure and gradually increase it.
2. Choose the Correct Nozzle
A 25-degree or 40-degree nozzle provides effective cleaning without damaging the surface. Avoid using 0-degree nozzles on concrete.
3. Maintain the Right Distance
Keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the driveway to avoid concentrated pressure that can cause cracks or etching.
4. Move the Wand in Even Strokes
Continue to hug the fabric with side-by-side strokes and avoid working in one place for too long. This reduces the risk of stains from misdirected cleaning.
Alternative Ways to Clean Your Driveway
For the concerned party who is quite anxious about the damaging effect of pressure washing, there are alternatives for cleaning concrete driveways that are not high pressure:
- Soft Washing: Washing at lower pressure using cleansers to loosen dirt and stains.
- With Scrubbing by Brush: An abrasive rub along with a cleansing agent will clean dirt without pressure washing.
- Jet Wash Services: Though you want the best possible professional cleaning without damaging your driveway, try to hire such a jet wash services company as Outdoor Butler for quite effective but safe jet washing cleaning.
When to Call a Professional
Once the driveway is washed under high pressure, in case some cracks, discolouration, or rough surfaces are noticed, it is best to ask a professional to come in. Trained professionals will assess the damage and recommend suitable options for repair or sealing.
Outdoor Butler provides professional cleaning services such as deck cleaning, roof cleaning, and pool area cleaning for a pleasant appearance of your outdoor areas.
Conclusion:
Pressure washing will effectively clean concrete driveways if done right; otherwise, it can destroy them. Knowledge of PSI, nozzle type, and technique will ultimately protect the life of any driveway. If you feel you are not qualified to handle a pressure washer, you can always have the professionals at Outdoor Butler come in and perform safe and effective cleaning for you.