Can Power Washing Damage a Concrete Driveway?

Is your driveway covered with stains and tire marks? Then it is time to get it power-washed. But wait! What if power washing damages your driveway? Is it a myth or a fact? Let’s uncover the truth behind driveway power washing to help homeowners make the right decision.

• Cleaning Concrete with a Pressure Washer – Right or Wrong?
• Things to Know Before Power Washing a Concrete Driveway
• Do’s and Don’ts of Power Washing a Concrete Driveway
• Steps to Pressure Wash a Concrete Driveway
• FAQs

Cleaning Concrete with a Pressure Washer – Right or Wrong?

Power washing enhances the overall look of a house 

Most homeowners refrain from power washing driveways due to the associated damage. Yes, power washing may damage a concrete driveway. Wait, read that again. It may damage, but it is not necessary; it all depends on the power washing practices.

For instance, using too much pressure can damage even the toughest material, concrete. Similarly, wrong nozzles and incorrect distance can also cause etching on a concrete driveway.

Using improper power washing techniques may result in irreparable damage. However, understanding the risks and taking proper safety measures can prevent damage and make your driveway appear new. Simply said, power washing a driveway using the correct method is right. That busts our myth – we cannot power wash a concrete driveway.

Things to Know Before Power Washing a Concrete Driveway

Now that we know the actual truth, it is time to map out things to avoid causing any damage. First things first! Here are some essential things to know before cleaning concrete with a pressure washer:

• Power washing a concrete driveway removes the accumulated dirt and grime on the surfaces. It revives the pristine shine by removing algae, mold, and other harmful bacteria. Power washing increases the value of a house.
• Ideally, it is advisable to power wash a concrete driveway once a year. Although concrete can withstand harsh weather and grime for a longer period, it will start to erode over time. But be cautious of power washing the surface too often as it will damage the surface.
• Homeowners who have recently installed a concrete driveway must not wash it for a year. This is to avoid any damage to new concrete. Power washing saves money in the long run.

Do’s and Don’ts of Power Washing a Concrete Driveway

Cracking on a driveway due to incorrect power washing techniques (Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/crack-cement-gray-concrete-repair-534276/)

If you are in a dilemma of power washing concrete, keep reading to know all the secrets behind a successful power wash.

Risks	How to Avoid
High pressure may damage a concrete driveway.	Start with a lower pressure and adjust it accordingly using the correct nozzle. A pressure in the range of 2000 to 3000 PSI is ideal for power washing concrete.
Choosing the wrong nozzle type may erode concrete surfaces.	Use a 0-degree nozzle for cleaning tough stains.
Power washing at a close distance can lead to chipping.	Maintain a distance of at least eight to twelve inches from the surface.
Focusing too much pressure on a single area will result in damage to the surface.	Use the overlapping technique and work in sections for best results.
Using chemicals that don’t suit concrete may result in discoloration.	If you are using chemicals, ensure to properly research if the chemicals are safe to use.
Power washing cracked concrete surfaces may cause more damage. Water can also penetrate inside, causing seepage and the growth of harmful bacteria.	Get these areas repaired first to avoid hefty repair costs.
If the sealant is not applied after power washing, it may result in a waste of time and effort.	Apply sealants properly after power washing a concrete driveway for best results.

Steps to Pressure Wash a Concrete Driveway

Remove any plants before cleaning a driveway to avoid causing damage to them (Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/driveway-brick-pattern-sidewalk-686668/)

Lastly, power washing concrete in the right way makes all the difference. Let’s go through some steps to effectively power wash a concrete driveway.

• First things first! Clear the concrete driveway, and keep the plants, children, and pets away. Remove any debris that may become a barrier during cleaning.
• Second, select the right pressure washer and nozzle for cleaning the concrete surface. We recommend using different nozzles to adjust pressure.
• Third, start by patch testing. Use power washing on a smaller surface of a concrete driveway and wait for the results. If everything goes well, start power washing in 4×4 sections.
• Fourth, maintain a distance of eight to twelve inches to prevent any damage.
• Fifth, don’t power wash a single area much. Instead, use the overlapping technique.
• Lastly, rinse off the concrete driveway with clean water if you have used any chemicals. Make sure to apply sealant once the surface dries off.

FAQs

Can Power Washing Damage Concrete?

Although power washing is highly effective for concrete, using the wrong methods can cause damage. It is advisable to use the right pressure settings, correct nozzle, and safe cleaning chemicals. In the end, it is better to consult a professional pressure-washing company for the best results.

What Are Some Tips to Pressure Wash a Concrete Driveway?

Some professional tips include clearing any debris on the driveway before pressure washing and using the correct pressure and nozzle.

Why Should I Hire a Professional to Power Wash Concrete?

DIY power washing is a common term nowadays. However, it is advisable to hire a professional if you don’t know the intricacies of power washing. A professional power washing company knows its job, is safer, and produces more effective results. If you want to know the cost of pressure washing a house, check this out.

What Are Some Other Surfaces That Require Power Washing?

All house surfaces require power washing except for delicate surfaces like windows. These surfaces include roofs, patios, decks, and gutters, among others. However, the frequency of power washing differs by surface.

That was all about pressure washing a concrete driveway. We must have answered your question, can power washing damage concrete? Ensure taking safety measures to avoid damaging your driveway. Happy cleaning!

If you don’t know the difference between soft washing and power washing, check out our quick guide.

For effective results, contact TN Wash and get a new house look in no time.