Although it may not get as much attention as the landscaping or a new paint job, a clean concrete driveway is a crucial component to your home’s curb appeal. No matter how lush the lawn looks, if the driveway is stained, people will notice. Thankfully, because concrete is such a durable material, washing it down isn’t much of a problem. If you’re wondering what your options are, here’s what you need to know.

Different Ways to Clean Your Concrete Driveway

1. Soap & Water

For basic cleaning, a little household soap and water can go a long way. You can use either dishwashing or laundry detergent—just make sure it has a degreaser, which helps with minor oil and grease stains. Use a hose to wet your entire driveway, then add a little bit of soap directly to the stains. Scrub the surface for about five minutes with a stiff-bristled broom before rinsing it off with the hose. 

2. Pressure Washer

When you need to cut through a few layers of dirt, a pressure washer is your best bet. Whether rented or purchased, always refer to the directions and start on the lowest setting to get familiar with handling it. Start on the area closest to your home and work towards the street. You also want to move the wand in a side-to-side fashion continuously; if you stay in one spot for more than 10 seconds, you risk damaging the concrete itself.

3. Chlorine Bleach

To brighten up a concrete driveway, use a little bit of chlorine bleach, the same kind you use for laundry. If you’ve recently had severe flooding, it’s also great for disinfecting the surface and preventing mold from growing. Since it’s a harsh chemical, always use protective gloves, boots, and goggles. To clean, fill a bucket with about a gallon of water and add ¾ of a cup of chlorine bleach; then, dip a boom or mop into the solution and apply to the surface. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before rinsing it off with a hose.

4. Trisodium Phosphate

Available in most hardware stores as a powder, trisodium phosphate (TSP) is often used as a cleaning agent, stain remover, and degreaser. Like chlorine bleach, it’s harsh and requires protective gloves, boots, and goggles. To make a solution, add a cup of TSP to a gallon of water. You can either use a broom to apply it or a garden sprayer. Allow it sit for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off again. Keep in mind that TSP can damage landscaping, so be careful when applying it. 

If your concrete driveway needs more than a cleaning, contact Piedmont Concrete Finishing for repairs. Located in High Point, NC, they’ve served residents and businesses in the Triad for more than 25 years. Whether it’s resealing, patching up cracks, or having it leveled, their expert team can handle the job. For more information about their services, call them today at (336) 434-2181. Learn more about their services on the website.