Pressure cleaning your driveway is one of the most satisfying home maintenance tasks. When you stand back after using a pressure cleaner to restore the condition of your driveway, it is hard not to be impressed with the results and have a sneaky peek over the shoulder to see if any of the neighbours are envious. Here are 4 tips that will revolutionise the way you pressure clean, so that you can clean your driveway quicker, easier and how to lay resin driveways more effectively.

• Use a Bio-Degradable Mould Killer

A lot of amateur pressure washers will use a copious amount of high strength bleach and chlorine to prepare the concrete before they start cleaning. Not only is this approach not going to produce successful results, but it will also damage the environment, especially the grass and gardens that line your driveway. Instead, use a bio-degradable mould killer that will not only prepare the surface by softening the contaminants but also retard the growth of mould, mildew and lichen on your driveway.

• Use The Right Tools

Professional pressure cleaning companies use innovative rotary machines that provide a thorough and even clean. You will need to rely on concentration and attention to detail to provide great results. Make sure that you use the wide fan nozzle for even application of the pressurised water. Ensure that your strokes overlap to provide even cleaning. If there are any stubborn stains, change the nozzle to a narrower pin nozzle and make tighter sweeps to lift up the stains.

• Plan Your Job

Don’t skip this step! It may seem like a simple suggestion, but planning your job can save you a lot of time and hassle. If you have doors or garages that are adjoining the driveway make sure that you cover the entrance with a tarp and some painters tape. There is no point vigorously cleaning your driveway if you are just blasting debris under your front door. Analyse the layout of your driveway and establish a plan of attack. Ask yourself: Where is the highest point of the driveway? Which way will the water flow? Where is the easiest place to access electricity? Do I have all of the equipment that I will need?

• Use A High-Quality Sealer

Sealing your driveway will protect the concrete on your driveway saving your time, money and by prolonging the life and appearance of your driveway. Of course, dirt, oil and grease will still settle on your driveway, but it will be a lot easier to clean. Choose a high quality sealant that is low gloss, non-slippery and has low emissions. Poor quality sealants are more affordable, and hence may seem more attractive, but it is worth researching how long that they are effective. Many professional pressure cleaning companies use more expensive sealants as the cheaper versions only last a year or two until reapplication is needed, whereas quality products will last up to five years.