Brick driveways can add sophistication and charm to your home. However, like any outdoor surface, they need regular maintenance in order to maintain their appearance. If you are not careful, pressure washing can do more harm than good. This guide will help you avoid the most common mistakes when pressure-washing a brick driveway.
What is Pressure Washing?
Power washing is another name for pressure washing. It uses high-pressure water to clean surfaces such as decks, driveways and siding. This method is highly effective in removing dirt, grime and mold that has accumulated over time.
Pressure washers work by forcing high-pressure water through a nozzle. This creates the necessary pressure to remove tough dirt and debris. This is great for cleaning hard surfaces but can have a negative impact if it’s not used correctly, especially on softer materials such as brick.
Why Pressure Washing Is Beneficial for Brick Driveways
Brick driveways can absorb dirt, algae, and moss easily. These contaminants, if left untreated can cause the brick to break down over time and reduce your driveway’s aesthetic appeal. There are many benefits to pressure washing:
- Effective Cleansing: Power washing removes mold and mildew, stains, and odors that normal scrubbing cannot handle.
- Preserving Integrity of Bricks: Pressure washing your brick driveway will help prolong its life by removing harmful contaminants.
- Curb appeal: An attractive driveway will make your house look more welcoming and inviting.
With great power, comes great responsibility. Be aware of mistakes that could turn a positive process into something negative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pressure Washing a Brick Driveway
Too Much Pressure
Over-pressuring is one of the biggest mistakes. Brick is porous, and if you apply too much pressure it can chip or crack. While most pressure washers have adjustable settings, it can be tempting to turn it all the way up in order to get the job done faster. This is a big mistake!
Too much pressure may damage the bricks’ surface, break them or cause them to fall off the driveway. Use a lower PSI for brick surfaces, ideally 500-1,000.
Cleaning Solutions That Are Not Effective
Bricks are not suitable for all cleaning products. Some people believe that any detergent or soap will work, but harsh chemicals can damage the brick surface. Use a brick-specific cleaning solution or a mild, eco-friendly detergent.
Not Prepping the Area Before Washing
Another common mistake is to skip the preparation work. Be sure to remove any loose debris such as sticks, stones, or leaves before you turn on the pressure wash. These items will be thrown around by the pressure washer, causing possible damage to bricks and nearby surfaces.
Ignoring Joints Between Bricks
Brick driveways are most vulnerable at the joints between bricks. The high-pressure water that is used to hold the bricks can cause the mortar or sand to erode if you are not careful. This can cause uneven bricks and even structural problems in the future. Be gentle when cleaning around the joints. Consider resealing afterward to avoid future erosion.
Holding the Nozzle Too Close to the Surface
You may think that holding the nozzle of the pressure washer closer to the surface would give you better cleaning, but this is not true. The pressure is concentrated on a small surface area when you hold the nozzle close. This can cause damage to the surface, etching or even break the brick. For a safe, even clean, keep the nozzle 12-18 inches from the surface.
Do Not Test in a Small Area First
Test a small area inconspicuous before pressure washing your entire driveway. You can check that the cleaning solution, nozzle, and pressure are all working properly. You can avoid costly mistakes by testing first.
Best Practices for Pressure Washing a Brick Driveway
How to Select the Right Pressure Settings
It is important to choose the correct pressure setting in order to prevent brick damage. Stick to the PSI range of 500-1,000. It’s better to use the lower range of PSI for driveways made from older bricks or with delicate bricks.
How to Choose the Right Cleaning Solution
Be sure to choose a solution that is eco-friendly and safe for brick. It protects your driveway as well as the environment. Avoid acidic cleaners as they can wear away the brick over time. Choose a pH-balanced masonry surface cleaner.
Proper Post-Cleaning Maintenance
After you have successfully completed brick driveway pressure washing, it’s crucial to maintain the driveway to keep it in optimal condition. After pressure washing, apply a sealant to the bricks to protect them from future damage. This will help ensure that the bricks stay cleaner and have a longer lifespan. Make sure to reapply the sealant at least every couple of years, especially in high-traffic areas.
The Tools You Need to Safely Pressure Wash
Pressure Washer
Be sure to use the correct pressure washer. Electric pressure washers are often enough for brick surfaces. They offer more control and lower risk of damage than gas-powered machines.
Nozzles, Attachments and Accessories
When pressure washing, nozzles are essential. To evenly distribute pressure on brick, use a wide-angle or fan nozzle. Avoid narrow nozzles which concentrate pressure in a small area. This can cause damage.
Conclusion
If you are not careful, it is easy to make mistakes when pressure washing your brick driveway. Avoiding common mistakes like over-pressure, using the wrong cleaning product, or failing to prepare the area will ensure that your driveway remains in great condition for many years.