Every time I drive down the road, I see a couple of pickup trucks with little Home Depot or Lowe's special pressure washers poking out the back. Whether it's someone hustling to make extra money or a homeowner gearing up to clean their driveway, there's a lot to consider for getting the job done right. If you're looking for professional results without hiring a pro, you’ve come to the right place. Here's how to properly clean your driveway and keep it protected.
Is DIY Pressure Washing Worth It?
Before diving into the how-to, consider whether doing it yourself will save you money. High-quality results require the right equipment, proper chemicals, and potentially a surface cleaner. Factor in your time and the cost of materials—you might find hiring a professional is more cost-effective.
Equipment and Preparations
1. Assess the Surface
Start by evaluating your driveway. Begin cleaning from the highest point to let gravity assist you, reducing the amount of work when rinsing.
2. Choose the Right Pressure Washer
In our videos, we use an 8-gallon-per-minute Kraken pressure washer. Its efficiency and power make quick work of grime and dirt. For homeowners, ensure your pressure washer is adequate for the job.
3. Pre-Treatment
A pre-treatment solution of bleach and water helps kill organic growth embedded in the concrete. This step is crucial for preventing rapid regrowth and ensuring a thorough clean.
Cleaning Techniques
1. Avoid Wand Marks
Using a wand to clean your driveway can be time-consuming and may leave uneven marks. Maintain a consistent distance between the wand and the surface to avoid this. However, for the best results, consider using a surface cleaner.
2. Use a Surface Cleaner
Surface cleaners provide a more uniform clean and reduce the risk of streaks and swirl marks. Ensure your surface cleaner is compatible with your pressure washer’s PSI and GPM ratings.
3. Work in Sections
For large driveways, clean and rinse in sections. This prevents dirt and grime from drying back onto the cleaned areas.
Steps to Pressure Wash Your Driveway
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Pre-Treat: Apply a bleach and water solution to kill organic growth.
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Cut In Corners: Use the wand to clean areas the surface cleaner can’t reach.
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Surface Clean: Move methodically with the surface cleaner, minimizing overlap.
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Rinse: Use a wand or ball valve to rinse the cleaned sections.
After cleaning, protect your driveway with Southeast Softwash Super Seal Water-Based Siloxane Concrete Sealer. Super Seal offers long-lasting protection, combating freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, dirt accumulation, and organic growth. Its benefits include:
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Easy Application: A single-step, ready-to-use product.
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Long-Lasting Protection: Deep penetration that lasts years.
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Invisibility: Dries flat and clear for minimal visibility.
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Resistance: Resists salt, de-icing chemicals, and reduces efflorescence.
One bottle covers approximately 200 square feet, but coverage can vary. Apply Super Seal to ensure your driveway remains in top condition for years to come.
Professional Training for Aspiring Pressure Washers
If you're thinking about starting a pressure washing business or want to up your game, check out our comprehensive training course, "How to Wash." This course offers over six hours of in-depth training on cleaning various surfaces, from houses to driveways. It covers everything from chemical use to safety tips, ensuring you're efficient and profitable. With 4,500 students already certified, it’s an invaluable resource for any pressure washing professional.
Conclusion
Pressure washing your driveway doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right equipment and techniques, you can achieve professional results. Remember to pre-treat, use a surface cleaner, work in sections, and rinse thoroughly. Protect your hard work with Southeast Softwash Super Seal for long-lasting results. For more detailed training, consider our "How to Wash" course to take your skills to the next level.
I hope this guide helps you achieve a cleaner driveway and a more efficient cleaning process. Have a great day and happy cleaning!
