It’s almost certain that you have concrete somewhere on your Chicago property. This extremely durable material has been relied upon by human civilization for centuries, and it continues to serve us today. From sidewalks and driveways to pool decks and retaining walls, concrete is used to create a large variety of structures.
However, just because concrete is tough doesn’t mean that it’s indestructible. In fact, concrete surfaces will accumulate debris over time, eventually causing numerous negative consequences. Because of this, it’s imperative to learn how to pressure wash concrete—or, failing that, knowing when to reach out to a pressure washing company for assistance. Chicagoland Pressure Washing explains the concrete pressure washing process below. Let’s delve into this topic together!
The Negative Effects of Surface Debris
Concrete collects grime as the months go by. But what makes this debris such a serious problem in the first place? Can’t it be safely ignored? No, not exactly. The longer this debris is allowed to accumulate, the greater the risk of surface damage becomes. This surface damage occurs when particles of debris grind against concrete, slowly eroding it. Additionally, organic growths (e.g., moss, mold, and algae) collect water and cause moisture damage to your concrete. It’s bad news no matter how you cut it.
Surface debris doesn’t just damage your concrete. It also steals away its beauty. It goes without saying that dirty concrete doesn’t look its best. It’s darker, duller, and less eye-catching. This results in less welcoming houses for homeowners. Even worse, it makes it more difficult for business owners to attract customers, resulting in reduced revenue. That’s why it’s important to learn how to pressure wash concrete—so concrete can be completely revitalized, and so property beauty can be restored.
Equipment Needed to Learn How to Pressure Wash Concrete
To learn how to pressure wash concrete, you’ll need the right equipment. So, what tools do you need for the work? The first and most important piece of gear is a pressure washer. This sophisticated piece of machinery pressurizes water, transforming it into a powerful, surface-cleaning force. Concrete can be pressure washed with up to 3,500 PSI, so rely on pressure washing for the best possible concrete cleaning experience!
Of course, you’ll need more than a pressure washer to complete your work. An attaching hose and an appropriate nozzle are also necessary. You should also consider some sort of cleaning solution. We recommend sodium hypochlorite because it quickly breaks down any stubborn grime on concrete. Finally, don’t forget safety equipment. Protect yourself during pressure washing projects by wearing goggles, gloves, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes.
Getting Ready For Concrete Cleaning
So, you’ve got all the necessary tools for concrete cleaning. However, you’re not ready for the project yet. There are a few more preparations you should make. For example, is the concrete surface completely clear of any obstacles? In the case of patio cleaning, you’ll want to remove all furniture and decorations from the area. On the other hand, if cleaning a driveway, make sure you park your cars in a safe, temporary location. As long as they’re out of the way.
Finally, make sure you have set aside enough time for the project. You won’t be able to complete this work in a single hour. We recommend giving yourself at least five hours for your first DIY concrete pressure washing job. That way, you have ample time to familiarize yourself with the process.
How to Pressure Wash Concrete
Now that you’ve made all the appropriate preparations, it’s time to learn how to pressure wash concrete! First and foremost, set your pressure washer to an appropriate level of water pressure. For concrete cleaning projects, we recommend 3,000-3,500 PSI. Next, apply your cleaning solution of choice to the concrete. (This can be accomplished with the pressure washer’s detergent tank or with a spray bottle.) Please give cleaning solutions fifteen minutes to break down grime; that way, it will be easier to rinse away.
Finally, with your pressure washing hose in hand, position yourself two feet away from the surface and start spraying! We recommend beginning in one of the corners of the concrete surface. By working in rows and overlapping each pass, you’ll be able to easily keep track of your work while also ensuring the cleanliness of every square inch of concrete. Look forward to concrete that is bright and beautiful again—that’s what pressure washing is all about.
How Frequently Should Concrete Be Cleaned?
How often should you have your concrete surfaces pressure washed? A good rule of thumb is to have your concrete cleaned once per year. This prevents it from becoming too dirty and helps maintain its visual appeal across all four seasons. If it has already been a year since your concrete was last cleaned, we highly recommend that you change that sooner rather than later!
Some properties may even benefit from more frequent concrete cleaning. Here’s a good example: a gas station. These businesses are constantly bringing in vehicles, which can track in dirt and mud. Additionally, gas may spill and stain concrete. We recommend pressure washing gas station concrete as often as three times per year.
Need Professional Concrete Cleaning?
If you are fed up with your concrete surfaces being dirty, but you don’t have the time and energy to clean them on your own, what should you do? By reaching out to Chicagoland Pressure Washing, you’ll be able to revitalize your concrete without even lifting a finger. This is a fantastic option for homeowners, business owners, landlords, and property managers, too. Whoever you are, our fully trained team is ready to lend you a hand.
To schedule an appointment, simply contact us online with information about your project. We will happily provide you with a cost estimate based on what you tell us. (There are never hidden fees at Chicagoland Power Wash, so no need to worry about those.) Finally, if you like our suggested price, choose a time and date for your appointment, and we’ll be there soon!
