What’s The Best Way To Clean A Driveway?

Your driveway is one of the most important sections of your property’s exterior, but it often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Over time, stains, grease, dirt, and debris can settle in this area, making it unsightly and prone to damage. Lack of maintenance, especially regular cleaning, can shorten its lifespan, requiring costly renovations.

If you don’t want to spend for an expensive makeover to keep your property attractive, scheduling regular professional service, like driveway pressure cleaning in Perth, is the key.

Below, we’ll explore multiple driveway cleaning methods and discuss the best ways to clean a driveway based on their pros and cons. Whether your driveway is made of concrete, asphalt, or pavers, these tips will help you achieve excellent results.

Why clean your driveway?

A clean and well-maintained driveway enhances the look of your property. It also creates a more welcoming atmosphere for you and your guests. But cleaning your driveway is not just about aesthetics – it’s essential to maintaining your property’s overall appearance, safety, and value.

A clean driveway lets you enjoy the following benefits:

• Curb appeal: A clean driveway significantly improves the overall aesthetic appeal of your property and helps preserve or increase the value of your home.
• Safety: A clean driveway minimises the risk of slips and falls, especially during wet or icy conditions.
• Damage prevention: Regular cleaning helps prevent long-term damage, extending your driveway’s lifespan.
• Maintaining structural integrity: Keeping your outdoor surface clear prevents the growth of weeds and the expansion of cracks.
• Preventing costly repairs: Neglected driveways can develop serious issues, such as deep cracks or crumbling surfaces. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help identify and address minor issues before they escalate.

By understanding the importance of cleaning your driveway, you can prioritise its maintenance and experience long-term benefits.

What are the different driveway cleaning methods?

There are three primary driveway cleaning methods, each with advantages and downsides. Here are the most common ones, including their pros and cons:

1. Using a pressure washer

   Some property owners prefer to clean driveways by themselves using commercial pressure washers. These useful driveway-cleaning services are available for purchase or rent.

   We want to stress that improper handling of pressure washers could lead to accidents, so first-time users must exercise utmost care by reading, understanding, and following the instruction manual before using them.

   When used accordingly, a pressure washer provides the following advantages and downsides:

   Pros:

   • It’s fast and effective.
   • It can remove tough stains.

   Cons:

   • It can damage the driveway surface if used improperly.
   • It may lead to accidents and injuries.
   • It requires a lot of water.

   As with any do-it-yourself (DIY) task, always wear safety gear when using this equipment.

2. Cleaning your driveway manually

   This driveway cleaning method requires a multi-purpose cleaning solution and manual scrubbing to remove stubborn stains and loosen debris. Avoid using cleaning agents with strong chemicals that could damage your driveway, and choose ones that are compatible with your paving materials.

   Pros:

   • This method is safe for all types of driveways.
   • It’s inexpensive.

   Cons:

   • It’s time-consuming.
   • It’s labour-intensive.
   • It’s not as effective as pressure washing or professional cleaning.

   You can clean your driveway manually if you have the time, skills, and energy to spare. If you don’t have these resources, you can call us at All West Pressure Cleaning to do the job for you.

3. Professional cleaning

   Hiring reputable driveway cleaners is the best approach to achieving the benefits of having a clean driveway. Professionals like us have the right skills and equipment to provide excellent results and save you from spending your weekend brushing and scrubbing.

   Pros:

   • Cleaning professionals can remove tough stains.
   • They can work on all types of driveways.
   • They offer extra services like sealing your driveway to prevent further damage.
   • They help keep your driveway in pristine condition for longer.
   • They know how to tackle challenging cleaning tasks.

   Cons:

   • Hiring a contractor entails cost, but finding a reputable company is worthwhile.

   The cost of cleaning services will depend on several factors, including the size of your driveway and the type of surface that needs cleaning. You might also have to spend more on additional services like driveway sealing.

   

How to clean a driveway

Regular maintenance will keep your driveway clean and inviting for years to come. Below, you’ll find the best driveway cleaning practices.

1. Assess your driveway’s condition

   Evaluate your driveway’s condition before starting the process. Look for areas with stubborn stains, cracks, or any necessary repairs. Understanding the issues will help you choose the most suitable cleaning methods, products, and other task requirements.

2. Gather the necessary tools and materials

   To clean your driveway effectively, gather the following tools and materials:

   • Broom or leaf blower to remove loose debris
   • Stiff-bristle brush or broom for scrubbing
   • Pressure washer or garden hose with an adjustable nozzle
   • Cleaning solution appropriate for your driveway material (e.g., detergent, degreaser, or specific cleaners)
   • Safety goggles, gloves, and protective clothing

   Before setting out to work, you must understand the pressure washer instructions and determine the best cleaning solution for your driveway surface.

3. Prepare the area

   Prepare the surrounding area by removing any objects, vehicles, or obstacles from the driveway. Cover nearby plants, delicate surfaces, or items sensitive to cleaning agents or pressure washing.

4. Apply the cleaning solution

   Use a commercial or homemade cleaner to remove tough stains. Concrete driveway stains and greases may be removed using mild detergent, water, or a concrete cleaner. Follow the product instructions for dilution ratios and application methods. Specific stains, like rust, mould, or mildew, may require other cleaning products. Seek professional advice.

   Asphalt driveways are more sensitive, so avoid harsh chemicals that can damage them. For paver driveways, avoid acid-based cleaners that can discolour or damage the pavers.

   Apply the cleaning solution evenly across the driveway and let it sit for the recommended time.

5. Scrub and rinse

   Scrub the driveway surface thoroughly using a stiff-bristle brush or broom, paying extra attention to stained or heavily soiled areas. A pressure washer with an appropriate nozzle setting can be used for larger driveways. Start from one end and work your way towards the other, ensuring complete coverage.

   After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the driveway using a pressure washer or a garden hose with an adjustable nozzle. Rinse from the highest point, directing water towards the street or drainage area.

   You may need to repeat the cleaning process for particularly stubborn stains or heavily soiled areas. Adjust the cleaning solution concentration or seek professional assistance if needed.

6. Seal your driveway

   Sealing your driveway protects it from the elements and prevents it from getting easily dirty again. There are a variety of sealants available, so be sure to choose one specifically designed for your driveway surface, especially pavers.

   

What’s the best way to clean your driveway?

So, what’s the best way to clean a driveway? The quick answer is hiring professional cleaners, as you may have already realised. As a property owner, you must consider your goals and your driveway’s current condition.

For instance, hiring contractors is best to ensure optimal results if you’re selling your property or faced with persistent stains, especially on different surfaces. The same holds true if you want to take a proactive approach and prevent significant issues from occurring.

However, as a homeowner, you’d still need to clean your driveway between regular professional appointments. Thus, whatever method you wish to take, the driveway cleaning tips and advice above are extremely helpful.

Why hiring professional cleaners is the best way to clean your driveway

When it comes to effectively cleaning your driveway, there’s no denying that pressure cleaning stands out as the best choice. This method offers unparalleled results, thanks to its use of specialised equipment, skilled handling, and proven techniques. By harnessing the power of high-pressure water jets, pressure cleaning effortlessly removes stubborn stains, dirt, and grime, revitalising your driveway’s appearance like never before.

Ultimately, whether your driveway is made of concrete, pavers, or any other material, entrusting the task to pressure cleaning professionals will undoubtedly provide you with a safe, effective, and visually impressive solution for maintaining and beautifying your property.