Contact Just Clean TODAY on
Best Method for Asphalt and Concrete Driveway Cleaning
15th June 2021
General cleaning
Remove all loose debris like dirt, leaves, and lawn grass using the oblong push broom and sweep the entire driveway. If there is an oil spill or grease stain, then use a non-clump cat litter or sawdust for absorption and leave it on the stain overnight. It is the first step irrespective of whether it is asphalt or concrete driveway.
Cleaning the Asphalt driveway
- Thoroughly moisten the asphalt driveway with the garden hose to loosen some of the minor residue embedded in small crevices.
- Pre-treat oil and grease stains by pouring a generous amount of powdered detergent or baking soda and allowing it to sit for several minutes, then use water and a stiff brush to scrub the stain.
- Commercial degreasers for asphalt are available in stores, and it is also safe for the environment and your driveway.
- Mix thoroughly 1 part laundry detergent and 1 part bleach with 3 parts water. Use the solution and, with a hand brush, work into the asphalt to dislodge any residue.
- And finally, use the hose to rinse away the dirt and grime.
- If it seems impossible to remove the stain, then an asphalt sealer is your best option.
Cleaning the Concrete driveway
It is best to remove leaves, grease, oil, and other contaminants sooner from the concrete so that you avoid stains. The surface of the concrete is porous, and it absorbs stains quickly if not sealed.
- Mold and mildew growth can be treated using a stiff bristle brush to scrub the area with a solution of bleach and water or mold-killing detergent.
- To effectively clean a grease stain, you can use a concrete degreaser or a concentrated alkaline soap to loosen up the oil.
- Rust stains can be treated by applying distilled white vinegar with water. If it doesn’t work well, then use Muriatic acid with water. It is very effective but to use acid; you have to take proper precautions and use protective gears.
- Organic stains can be removed using a stiff brush to scrub with detergent and water solution or cleaners formulated to remove organic stains.
- Finally, use a hose or pressure washer to clean the driveway. Apply organic detergent and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then vigorously scrub with a stiff bristle broom or and water. Rinse the driveway, and you can repeat the same process if needed.
- Concrete paver driveways have joints that will need a refill of sand as it washes away in time. Use polymer sand, as it binds and hardens and helps to prevent erosion.
- For poured concrete driveways, resealing the driveway every few years will make it look like-new and less vulnerable to stains.
Conclusion
There you have it, the tried and the best method to clean your driveway, whether made of asphalt or concrete. Keep cleaning the driveway frequently to avoid organic stains and maintain the beauty and the curb appeal. If you require a professional service, you can always count on Just Clean Property Care: the best Manchester driveway cleaning company.
