The Dos and Don’ts of Pressure Washing Your Driveway

Pressure washing your driveway is a sure-fire way to clean your property, make it safer, and elevate the curb-appeal of your home. But doing it incorrectly can lead to the opposite, from leaving visible streaks to even doing damage. Hiring a professional is an affordable way to get fast, reliable results. But for those wanting to give it a try themselves, here are some dos and don’ts to help guide you through the process.

Pressure washing dos and don’ts

• Wear PPE
• Pretreat with detergents/degreaser
• Use green nozzle (2000-3000 psi) for concrete
• Test small area first
• Keep the wand moving
• Avoid soft or damaged areas
• Avoid spraying too closely
• Avoid thin or high-powered jets (red nozzle)

PPE (personal protective equipment)

Pressure washing is dangerous. The high-pressure spray can harm unprotected parts of the body, plus the spray can kick up debris and grit which can cause injury. Always wear protective gear including goggles and sturdy footwear/boots.

Pretreat with detergents/degreaser

Pretreat the driveway with detergent to achieve an even distribution of cleaning solution. This step helps avoid streaking and delivers a more uniform final look. Pretreat oil and gas stains with a degreaser.

Use green nozzle 

Start with the green nozzle and move to the next for tougher or stubborn stains. 2000-3000 psi is safe for concrete. For pavers and asphalt driveways, aim for 1500-2800 psi. Avoid thin or high-powered jets (red nozzle).

Keep the wand moving

Slowly keep the wand moving to avoid concentrating the spray in one area. An area under direct pressure for too long risks being damaged. 

Avoid soft or damaged areas

This is to avoid causing more damage and to avoid turning grit, stones and other debris into flying missiles. Fix damaged areas before pressure washing, or use a brush and some elbow grease for those areas.

Avoid spraying too closely

The closer the spray, the more intense it is, thus the more potential there is for damage. Try to maintain a comfortable 12-18 inches distance between the nozzle and the surface of the driveway.

We hope these tips help the DIYer achieve a beautifully clean driveway they can be proud of. If it all sounds like a little too much, and you don’t have or want to purchase the necessary equipment, have a professional handle it, stress-free.

2 Angels Home Services will pressure wash any durable surface around your home. We work safely and reliably to your satisfaction and the results are guaranteed.Call or contact 2 Angels Home Services for a free, no-obligation quote: 604-825-1712.