How to Pressure Wash Driveways

Unless you have a VERY small driveway this is one of the pressure washing jobs that I would not recommend doing yourself. Powerwashing a driveway with a standard pressure washer, or even a commercial pressure washer that a contractor would use, can take hours. Most contractors will be using what we refer to as a flatwork machine. It looks similar to a floor buffer that you commonly see people using on tile or vinyl flooring (see image below).

A flatwork machine can cover about a 12 inch diameter surface and is generally used for all flat surfaces including patios, walkways, driveways, sidewalks, and in some cases decks. On the other hand a pressure washer can only cover a couple of inches per second. With that said if you have a small driveway or a small, flat surface of any kind for that matter, it may be worth your while to try and tackle the job yourself. To set up a free estimate call us 609-431-0853 or fill out our online form. Click on the images below to enlarge them or visit our portfolio page for additional before and after pictures.

How to Power Wash Driveways
Pressure Washing Driveways Before
How to Powerwash Driveways
Pressure Washing Driveways During
How to Pressure Wash Driveways
Pressure Washing Driveways After

Tips for Cleaning Driveways

  • make sure all windows are shut and all doors are closed
  • if possible turn off the power to all electrical fixtures including lights and fixtures
  • remove everything that can be damaged by a cleaning agent including furniture
  • cover all plants, shrubs and flowers

Items you will Need to Wash Driveways

  • water
  • cleaning agent
  • soft brush
  • ladder
  • hose
  • pressure washer
  • bucket
  • flatwork machine

Process of Power Washing Driveways

While you can clean any way you want it makes the most sense to start from the highest point and work your way down regardless if you have an asphalt driveway or a brick driveway. If your driveway looks flat just spray some water and look to see which direction the water is flowing and start with the side that it is running away from. This way you do not have to rinse or clean the same areas more than one time. The professionals at J&J Power Wash will mix cleaning agents into a five gallon bucket and apply to the highest point of the driveway with our spray applicator.  Let the cleaning agent work its magic on the driveway for several minutes before you start hand brushing or rinsing. It also helps to keep an additional 5 gallon bucket filled with a cleaning agent that you can periodically dip your soft brush into during the brushing process.