It may come as a shock, but concrete can also have bacteria growing on it. Researchers have found that 1 gram of concrete contains an average of one thousand to one million organisms. That’s one good reason to have a clean driveway!
Of course, removing harmful bacteria isn’t the only reason why we clean our driveway. Another reason to have a clean driveway is for our home to look more beautiful. That’s why we will discuss some ways to clean your driveway so you can have it looking better than ever.
Why Does Concrete Stain and Get Dirty Easily?
One of the main reasons concrete gets so dirty is because of its porous surface. That means grime, oil, and other filth settle and stick easily. The best way to maintain a driveway is by cleaning it often and rinsing it quickly if you notice a dirty spot.
Understanding this is crucial to cleaning a driveway. We will need to use specific cleaning methods or chemicals to clean and disinfect our driveway effectively. Let’s begin with the first method of cleaning- using a pressure washer.
Pressure Washing
It’s the most effective way to clean a driveway as the power of a pressure washer can clean out even old stains. You’ll want to use the fan tip, as it’s the most useful tip for cleaning a driveway. If your pressure washer allows it, use hot water.
When using a pressure washer, you must be cautious as leaving it too long on one area will ultimately damage the concrete. Make sure to set it in the low-pressure setting and hold it between 10 to 12 inches away from the concrete. If you have oil stains, be sure to apply some baking soda or degreaser before using the pressure washer, as these products will help remove them.
It’s advisable to hire specialized driveway cleaning services, as they have the experience and equipment needed to clean a driveway. You may also rent a pressure washer, so be sure to check if any local businesses offer that service.
Chlorine Bleach
Using bleach to clean a driveway is efficient, especially if you have mold or mildew growing on it. You will need to combine a solution of 1/2 a cup of bleach and 1/2 a cup of warm water, but be sure to use gloves. If you have many stains on your driveway, make a larger mixture, but be cautious as bleach can be dangerous.
Once you have the solution and the necessary safety equipment, proceed to spray or dump the solution onto the driveway. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, and then use a stiff scrub brush on it. After that, you can hose down the driveway to rinse the solution off.
Enzymatic Cleaner
An excellent way to clean a concrete driveway is by using this cleaner. Enzymatic cleaners use enzymes in their formulas to help break down stains. The most satisfying part is that you don’t need to wash or scrub after applying it.
Of course, this cleaning method is not the fastest, as an enzymatic cleaner may take days or weeks to remove certain stains. You may even need to apply the product a few more times. Most home improvement stores sell enzymatic cleaners.
Before using an enzymatic cleaner, be sure to read the application instructions carefully. Even though it’s not a harsh chemical, always use gloves when using it.
Trisodium Phosphate
If your driveway’s concrete is not in the best condition, you may need a heavy-duty cleaning solution. Trisodium phosphate will significantly help clean a driveway as it breaks up oils, grime, and other stains. As trisodium phosphate is an abrasive chemical, be sure to wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and long pieces of clothing.
You will need to mix 1 cup of trisodium phosphate into a hot gallon of water. Then with a sprayer, drench your driveway with it and let it sit for 20 minutes. Afterward, scrub your driveway with a stiff brush and rinse it with water.
For stains that are deep in the concrete, you can apply a thick paste of trisodium phosphate. To prepare it, simply mix 2 cups of corn starch and a cup of trisodium phosphate and mix until it becomes a paste. Apply it on the stains and leave it overnight, then remove it with your hose.
Natural Products
If you don’t like using chemicals, then using natural products is also useful in cleaning a driveway. Remember that they may take longer than other methods, but they are still helpful. There are two products you can use, baking soda and dishwasher detergent.
Baking Soda Method
Get enough baking soda to cover your driveway lightly. If there are any oil stains, be sure to add extra baking soda to it. Pour some warm water on the stains and scrub them with a stiff brush.
Afterward, hose down all of the baking soda. You may need to reapply baking soda if the stains remain. If you’re still having trouble removing some stains, try using cat litter, corn starch, or cornmeal.
Dishwasher Detergent Method
Pour some dishwasher detergent on the stains and moldy areas of your driveway. While you let the dishwasher detergent sit, boil a large pot of water and pour it onto the stains or mold. Clean the area with a stiff-bristled brush and rinse the area.
As mentioned before, cleaning a driveway with natural products may not be as quick as other methods. Still, it’s the safest and easiest way. Plus, it’s a pet, kid, and plant friendly solution!
It’s Not Hard to Have a Clean Driveway
As you have seen, there are many ways to have a clean driveway. Having a clean driveway will benefit not only you but also the community. So if you have neglected your driveway’s maintenance, try out one of the methods mentioned above!
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we have other home-improvement posts. Without a doubt, you’ll find more useful topics that will make your home beautiful.
