Is Pressure Washing a Driveway Worth It?
A pressure washing company can significantly improve the curb appeal of your home. Over time, dirt, moss, algae, and stains can accumulate, making the surface look dull and unappealing. One of the most effective methods of cleaning a driveway is pressure washing. But is it worth the cost and effort? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and considerations of pressure washing your driveway, helping you make an informed decision.
What Is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing involves using a high-powered water jet to remove dirt, stains, and debris from surfaces. It’s commonly used for cleaning driveways, patios, and other hard surfaces. The high-pressure water stream is effective at dislodging dirt and grime without the need for harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing.
However, not all driveways are suited for pressure washing. The type of material your driveway is made from can influence whether pressure washing is the best cleaning option.
Benefits of Pressure Washing Your Driveway
- Improved Curb Appeal
One of the main reasons homeowners choose to pressure wash their driveways is to enhance the appearance of their property. A clean driveway can create a fresh, welcoming look for visitors and potential buyers. Over time, driveways can accumulate moss, algae, oil stains, and dirt, all of which can make the surface look worn and tired. Pressure washing quickly removes these imperfections, restoring the driveway to its original look.
- Prevention of Damage
Dirt, moss, and algae can cause long-term damage to your driveway if left unchecked. For example, moss can grow in the cracks of your driveway, leading to further deterioration and the potential for structural damage. Algae can also make surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Regular pressure washing can help prevent these issues by eliminating organic growth before it has a chance to cause significant damage.
- Increased Lifespan
By regularly cleaning your driveway with a pressure washer, you can extend its lifespan. Dirt and debris can gradually wear away at the surface of the driveway, leading to cracks, holes, and uneven areas. Pressure washing helps to keep the surface clear of these contaminants, reducing the likelihood of wear and tear. In the long run, this maintenance can save you money on repairs and replacements.
- Quick and Efficient
Pressure washing is a fast and effective way to clean a driveway. The high-powered water jets can cover large areas in a short amount of time. This makes pressure washing a time-efficient alternative to manual cleaning methods, such as scrubbing or using a hose. If you want to clean your driveway without spending hours on the task, pressure washing is an excellent option.
Considerations Before Pressure Washing
While pressure washing has many benefits, there are some important considerations to keep in mind before deciding whether it’s worth it for your driveway.
- Driveway Material
The type of material your driveway is made from can impact how well it responds to pressure washing. For example:
- Tarmac or Asphalt: Pressure washing can be too harsh on tarmac driveways, potentially causing damage or loosening the surface. If your driveway is made of tarmac, it’s best to use a lower-pressure setting or avoid pressure washing altogether. Usually a rotary cleaning machine is used on the pressure washer, which is made up of many small jets. This creates a softer clean of fragile areas.
- Concrete: Concrete driveways respond well to pressure washing and can handle the high-pressure water stream. In fact, pressure washing is often recommended to remove stains and dirt from concrete surfaces.
- Block Paving: Block-paved driveways are also suitable for pressure washing, but care must be taken not to dislodge the sand between the pavers. After pressure washing, you may need to replenish the joint sand to ensure the paving blocks stay securely in place.
- Cost of Pressure Washing
While pressure washing can be an affordable way to clean a driveway, there are costs to consider. If you hire a professional service, prices in the UK typically range from £150 to £500, depending on the size of the driveway and the level of cleaning required. If you decide to buy a pressure washer, expect to pay anywhere from £1000 to £2000 for reasonably quality machines. While renting a pressure washer is an option, it can cost around £30 to £50 per day for smaller electric ones. Sadly, these do not clean as well as a more robust high pressure machine.
Although pressure washing is an effective cleaning solution, the cost of professional services or purchasing a pressure washer may not be worth it if your driveway is in good condition or if you are not planning to clean it regularly.
- Environmental Impact
Another consideration is the environmental impact of pressure washing. High-pressure water jets can use a significant amount of water, which may contribute to water wastage if not used efficiently. Additionally, if cleaning chemicals are used in conjunction with pressure washing, it’s important to consider their potential environmental impact. Some chemicals can harm plants, animals, or water sources if not properly disposed of. Consideration should also be given to pressure washing water supply, as this can be an environmental factor in periods of short rainfall and during hose pipe bans for example.
To mitigate this, you can use environmentally friendly cleaning products and ensure that wastewater is properly disposed of to minimise pollution.
- Risk of Damage
Although pressure washing is generally safe, improper use of the equipment can result in damage. Using too high a pressure on delicate surfaces can cause cracks, chips, or surface erosion. Similarly, a poorly operated pressure washer could inadvertently damage your driveway, especially if you hold the nozzle too close to the surface or move it in a haphazard manner.
To avoid damage, it’s recommended to use the right pressure setting for your driveway material and to practice safe techniques. Alternatively, hiring a professional ensures that the job is done properly, reducing the risk of errors.
How Often Should You Pressure Wash Your Driveway?
The frequency of pressure washing your driveway depends on various factors, such as the weather, the level of traffic, and the surrounding environment. On average, pressure washing your driveway once a year is sufficient to maintain its appearance and prevent damage. However, if your driveway is frequently exposed to dirt, moss, or oil stains, you may need to clean it more often.
In general, spring and autumn are the best times to pressure wash your driveway, as these seasons tend to have milder weather conditions that won’t cause the surface to dry too quickly or freeze.
DIY vs. Professional Pressure Washing
For those who are handy and own a pressure washer, DIY pressure washing can be a cost-effective option. It’s important to ensure that you have the proper equipment, as well as knowledge of the correct techniques to avoid damaging the surface.
If you prefer to leave it to the professionals, hiring a pressure washing company can ensure the job is done thoroughly and safely. Professionals have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle different driveway materials and stubborn stains. While this comes with a higher price tag, it may be worth it for the peace of mind and quality of service
