Driveway Pressure Cleaning: Your Key to a Spotless Exterior

A well-maintained driveway is the homeowner’s pride and joy. It enhances the curb appeal and property value. Still, the amount of effort and time it takes is a huge stumbling block for many. If you are also one of those people who wish for more hassle-free maintenance for your driveway, you should consider Pressure Cleaning. It’s a process of removing dirt and grime from surfaces using high-pressure water and chemical.

Though it’s been here for decades, many of us still have questions about its methods, safety in usage, environmental impact, and the like. That’s why we put together a comprehensive guide that answers all the questions one may have about driveway cleaning.

So, let’s get started!

Is it OK to Pressure Wash a Driveway?

Yes, it absolutely is ok to pressure wash a driveway. It’s not uncommon for driveways to accumulate dirt, oil, and other contaminants over time. What’s more, the Australian hot weather can bake these stains onto the surface, making them harder to clean with regular methods. Therefore, it is more than okay to pressure clean your driveway every now and then.

• For most household driveways, it’s appropriate to pressure clean once a year or every six months .
• In areas with mould and mildew growth, chemical must be used in conjunction with pressure washing.

Importance of Driveway Pressure Cleaning

When you keep your driveway clean, you can enjoy a variety of benefits. But what is the importance of pressure washing it?

Unlike regular cleaning, chemical combined with pressure washing is a thorough method to use to clean. Not only will it clean the driveway, but it will restore it to its original glory—like brand-new. This raises your property value significantly. For such a significant outcome, the service is worthwhile and will present you property excellently.

A common misconception is that pressure cleaning requires an excessive amount of water compared to traditional methods. However, the truth is just the opposite. Pressure cleaning is much more water-efficient than any other. Designed to deliver water at high pressure, these washers use significantly less water than when you use a garden hose or a bucket.

Overall, it’s an effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly cleaning practice.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Pressure Wash Your Driveway?

Pressure washing, otherwise called jet washing, is a tricky job that requires a professional touch. Many also lean towards DIY methods, yet they wouldn’t be anything like an expert-led wash. Whatever may be your pick, pressure cleaning primarily follows a four-step procedure.

• Pre-Cleaning Treatment – Surface prep is the first and vital step in pressure washing. It starts with a basic cleanup, such as clearing away loose debris and dirt. Then, a chemical soft wash pre-treatment solution is applied to the driveway surface, which helps loosen the stubborn grime. So, allow the solution to sit for a few minutes.If you have any vegetation surrounding the driveway, make sure to soak the plants thoroughly with water before applying the solution. It helps protect the plants from any chemicals in the solution.
• Using a Surface Cleaner – After the prep, it’s time to bring out a heavy-duty surface cleaner. Here, two things matter: the right chemical soft wash cleaning solution and the right pressure. With a suitable combination of these two, we lift away all the stains from your driveway’s concrete. Usually, our experts recommend around 3000 PSI for most surfaces, as it avoids damage while cleaning thoroughly.Also, at this stage, it is important to maintain consistent speed and pressure to ensure cleaning every inch of the driveway. This is where you truly see an expert’s hand at work!
• Rinsing the Driveway – By the time you finish the second step, you will have a lot of bulk dirt dislodged from your driveway. So, it’s time to give it a good rinse.At this stage, we switch to a handheld rinsing tool and rinse the surface meticulously, ensuring no residue is left behind. Being thorough is crucial here as the removed dirt can settle back on the driveway easily if not removed.

Signs You Need to Pressure Clean Your Driveway

If you are on the fence about pressure washing, take a look at the list below. When your driveway shows any of these signs, consider it’s time to go for a quick pressure wash.

• Ugly and noticeable stains from grease, oil, or dirt.
• Presence of mould or mildew, especially in damp or shady areas.
• Slippery surface due to algae or moss.
• Dull appearance, suggesting a buildup of dirt and other pollutants.
• Weeds or vegetation growing through surface cracks.
• Foul odours after rain or when it’s damp, indicating the presence of decaying organic matter.

Most of all, if you feel your home is in dire need of a makeover, start with driveway pressure cleaning. It will make a noticeable difference in your home’s curb appeal.

Benefits of Cleaning Driveway

Pressure washing is more than an act of maintenance. The number of things that it can do for a household is truly impressive.

• Enriches Curb Appeal: A clean driveway is much better to look at than a dull and dirty one, isn’t it? Its improved appearance will create a great impression on visitors and neighbours alike. Thus, your property value also sees a rise.
• Cuts down Regular Maintenance: With a thorough pressure wash, you will be able to cut down regular maintenance, such as manual scrubbing or hosing. Needless to say, it saves a lot of your precious time and effort.
• Extends Lifespan: By making sure your driveway is free of harmful contaminants and substances, you add more years to its life. This steers clear of costly repairs or replacements midway through.
• Eliminate Slippery Mould Surfaces: What comes with dirt, debris, and organic matter is mould & mildew. One slip could significantly impact you or your visiting guests. Maintain your space by a regular maintenance clean to eliminate that possibility.
• Prevents Water Damage: Accumulated grime and organic matter can trap moisture on the surface of your driveway, causing water damage slowly. If you can remove such substances right away, you can protect your driveway from potential water damage.

The Best Solution to Pressure Wash a Driveway

Pressure cleaning comes in a variety of methods. What your driveway needs depends on factors such as the surface type, stain severity, and environmental conditions. Here are a few we recommend as expert pressure washers:

• Water Only Wash – For cleaning light dirt and dust.
• Detergent or Soap Wash – For driveways with moderate dirt, grease, and oil stains.
• Degreaser Wash – For stubborn oil and grease stains.
• Bleach or Oxygenated Wash – For mould, mildew, or algae removal.
• Acid-Based Cleaner – For tough mineral deposits and rust stains.

While considering your options, it is best to have a talk with a local driveway cleaning service, as experts are much more accurate.

When to Get Driveway Cleaning Services in Melbourne?

You can engage reliable high pressure cleaning services whenever you feel the need or see the signs we discussed in before sections. Nevertheless, you can still get your driveway pressure cleaned at some crucial points in time. For example:

• Seasonal intervals
• Before special events
• Prior to Winter where the moisuture, mould & mildew will build up
• Before selling or renting the property

Pros of Hiring a Professional

Naturally, many homeowners feel tied between a DIY and a professional service. But let us give you a dealbreaker. Though DIYs seem cost-effective, they are really NOT. Before you realise it, you will be spending more money, time, and effort with DIYs—unless you are a pro and have all the right equipment.

Compared to that, professional services are more convenient and efficient. Your work will be finished in one go, within the set time, and without charging an extra cent beyond what’s agreed. So, if there’s a chance, always prefer hiring a professional.

The Cost of Driveway Pressure Cleaning in Melbourne

The costs depend on the service provided first and foremost. So, you can request quotes from different providers and see which one offers quality at the best price for your cleaning needs. Among the myriad of services we have today, you can be certain to find the suitable one in no time.

Conclusion

Don’t see pressure cleaning as another chore. It can be an investment in your home’s longevity and aesthetics. When you are ready contact our team at Exterior Clean Melbourne. With the finest equipment and the know-how, we ensure your driveway gets nothing but the best.

Request Free Quote Today!