Concrete is a versatile building material that can be used in a variety of applications, from driveways and patios to sidewalks and pool decks. It is a sturdy and durable material that can last for years when properly taken care of.
Over time, however, concrete can become stained and unsightly. Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to clean concrete, and it’s not as difficult as you may think. This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has built up over time.
In this blog post, you will learn how to correctly pressure wash concrete using a concrete pressure washer while following a few simple tips.
A Right Way Of Pressure Washing Concrete
So, if you want to know how to pressure wash concrete, the first thing that you will need is a durable pressure washer, for the best washing results. I highly recommend that you get one of the heavier-duty models with a good quality pump, mainly because they will last longer and be more reliable.
So here is a complete guide on how to pressure wash concrete. It is basically how you should wash a concrete floor or concrete driveway without damaging it. This is very important for the concrete to remain clean and stain-free so that it can stay for long.
After reading this article, you’ll see why pressure washing concrete is so important and you will know what is the best way to wash your concrete floors.
Step By Step Guide About How To Pressure Wash Concrete
Pressure Washers Selection
It is obvious that pressure washing concrete is more power-demanding than other washing tasks. It is recommended to have a powerful electric pressure washer or if you can afford go with a gas-powered pressure washer for concrete washing. This means more PSI is more power and ease in cleaning concrete floors!
You can also clean your concrete flooring with a light-duty pressure washer but it will take more time so if there is a choice, go for a mid to heavy-duty pressure washer instead.
2000 PSI is an average PSI for washing concrete floorings and concrete driveways but 3000 PSI is most suitable for this task. I have used Simpson Megashot 3200 PSI gas pressure washer for cleaning my concrete floor and it is a great pressure washer with low fuel cost and easy handling.
Precautions To Follow Before Pressure Washing Concrete
Save The Plants
Pressure washing near plants can harm them. The water jet from the pressure washer as well as the concrete detergent can cause havoc with the plants so cover them with some cloth before starting the process.
Clean Away Debris And Other Objects
Before you start pressure washing the concrete, remove the debris, dry leaves, and other objects with the help of a broom and air blower. Cleaning this stuff before pressure washing helps to save water and time.
Personal Safety
Always wear safety gear before starting pressure washing. Pressure washing the concrete is more dangerous than pressure washing other objects. As there are more chances of slipping and flying little rocks and stones caused by the power jet.
Switch off the outdoor power supply
Pressure washing involves water, and electricity with water does not combine well. Therefore, make sure you have turned off the outdoor power supply. Water may enter power outlets and can inflict severe damage. Be cautious about the cords of the extension board attached to the washer (if any).
Avoid the use of ladders
The use of ladders can be very risky while pressure washing. When you are dealing with high pressure, the pressure stick might push back with force causing you to fall over and hurt yourself in the ongoing process. If you want to reach higher places instead of using ladders extend the washer stick with an extension.
Choosing right nozzle
In pressure washing, nozzles are standardized in degrees. Lower degree nozzles will exert the narrow and powerful water spray. While dealing with concrete surfaces, you should opt for these three nozzles depending upon your situation
- For drenching the concrete with cleaning solution or detergent, use a 65˚ nozzle.
- When it comes to the actual cleaning of concrete, use a 25˚ nozzle as it is quicker and powered.
- For areas that require deep and tough cleaning, opt for a 15˚ nozzle.
Or to switch pressure settings easily you can also use an adjustable nozzle.
Using soap cleaner/ detergent
If you are considering pressure washing without using any cleaning detergent. It won’t be as effective as you might have expected. Using detergent will leave incredible results as it will help to remove tougher stains and oil effectively.
Injecting detergent is quite an easy task, most pressure washers come with a soap tank. After spraying detergent on concrete let it sit on the surface for 10-12 minutes. After that time rinse it off thoroughly from the surface.
When choosing detergent or cleaning solution ensure that it is pressure washing safe and do not contain bleach in it.
Tip:Oil and rust stains are pretty hard to get rid of. If you are dealing with tougher stains, use a less diluted solution on it and let it stay longer on the surface |
Start from high end to bottom
Start cleaning from the higher ends of the driveway and move it forward to the downside. So, you don’t have to overwork in overlaps.
Keep your pressure washer on the high end also, it would be easier to manage the hose from behind. Otherwise, you have to constantly kick it out of your way which will cause frustration.
Clean in small manageable sections
Cleaning all at once would be difficult to manage. And may also result in white stains and streaks as the detergent will over-settle and dry before you rinse it off. Try to divide the area into 10 x 10 feet sections. It will help you in monitoring the concerned area.
Use extended hose
Extension hose with pressure washers is not enough to reach far-off places. And lugging a washer is not an easy thing to manage. Make your work easier with the help of extended hose, they usually come in 25 to 50 ft. You don’t have to drag a washer along you anymore. Instead, keep it on the higher end of your driveway and roam at far-off places for cleaning without burden.
Seal the concrete surface after pressure washing
When you’re done with pressure washing, seal the driveway with a good sealer. Before applying sealant make sure your driveway is dried properly. Using sealant will provide protection and helps the concrete surface last longer than usual.
Conclusion:
Pressure washing concrete can help you restore its original appearance whether it is your patio, driveway, or pathway within a day. But you have to do it correctly.
The most common causes of pressure washing damage occur due to the use of incorrect nozzles, exerting too much pressure, spraying too close to the concrete surface, or keeping the spray stationary in the same area for an extended period.
So always follow the instructions and precautions to pressure washer concrete floor or concrete decks.
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