Are you tired of looking at a dirty driveway? It’s time to give it a good clean! A clean driveway not only looks great but also helps to maintain its longevity. And since spring is fully here, well, it seems like spring cleaning time has arrived! So, how do you clean your driveway? Let’s dive in and find out!
How to Clean Your Driveway in 5 Steps
Materials:
Before we get started, here are the materials you’ll need:
- A pressure washer or hose with a high-pressure nozzle
- A broom or brush
- A bucket
- A cleaning solution (optional)
Step 1 Clear the Driveway of Debris
The first step is to clear your driveway of any debris such as leaves, dirt, and rocks. You can use a broom or brush to sweep it away or use a leaf blower to get rid of it quickly. Make sure you’re clearing the asphalt as any debris that gets left can cause problems down the line.
Step 2 Apply the Cleaning Solution (optional):
If you want to deep clean your driveway, you can use a cleaning solution. You can buy a commercial driveway cleaner or make one at home using ingredients such as vinegar and baking soda. Apply the solution onto the driveway and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Be careful what you use as certain chemicals can break down the asphalt in unexpected ways. This is about cleaning the driveway, not disintegrating it!
Step 3 Pressure Wash or Hose Down
You can either use a pressure washer or a hose with a high-pressure nozzle to clean your driveway. A pressure washer is more effective, but if you don’t have one, a hose will also do the trick. Start at the top of the driveway and work your way down, using sweeping motions to remove any dirt or stains and keep pushing dirt and debris in one direction. If you’re using a pressure washer, be careful not to damage the driveway surface or any nearby objects. Remember that moisture (including that from a pressure washer or hose!) is the biggest enemy to asphalt so if you have cracks, don’t spray directly into them! The water will work its way down below the asphalt and break up the structure.
Step 4 Rinse the Driveway
Once you’re done pressure washing or hosing down your driveway, rinse it off thoroughly with water. Make sure to remove any cleaning solution residue to prevent it from damaging your driveway over time.
Step 5 Allow the Driveway to Dry
After you’re done cleaning your driveway, allow it to dry completely before using it. Avoid driving or walking on it until it’s completely dry.
More Driveway Cleaning Tips:
- Always wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection when using a pressure washer.
- Be careful not to damage the surface of your driveway or any nearby objects such as plants or furniture.
- If you have stubborn stains on your driveway, you can use a specialized stain remover or try using baking soda and vinegar.
- To maintain a clean driveway, consider using a sealant or wax to protect the surface and prevent stains from forming.
Cleaning your driveway isn’t rocket science. With a few basic tools and some elbow grease, you can keep your asphalt looking good for a long time to come. So go ahead and give your driveway the TLC it deserves!
Driveway past the point of no return? Does it need repairs more than a cleaning? We have you covered! Here at Sunrise Asphalt, we’ve been paving the way for Tucson for over 40 years!
Give us a call or fill out our form for a free estimate on your asphalt job.
No matter the job, the owner is always on site – guaranteeing the highest quality work is done for you!