The secret to driveway cleaning for concrete is using the right method, not the most pressure. In Davis, CA, we match the cleaner and pressure to the surface so it comes out clean without damage. On concrete, the method we use is pressure wash with a surface cleaner.
Method and pressure
Cleaning solution: A degreaser for oil spots and a pre-treatment for organic growth; post-treatment slows regrowth.
What to know about cleaning concrete
Plain broom-finish concrete is the surface pressure washing is made for. A rotary surface cleaner gives an even finish without the stripes a wand leaves, and hot water helps with grease and oil.
Avoid: Holding a narrow tip close to the surface, which etches lines into the cream layer of the concrete.
How often: Every year, or every 6 months in shaded, damp spots.
Is it time for driveway cleaning for concrete?
- Dark, blotchy or striped concrete
- Black mildew along edges and in shaded areas
- Oil spots and tire marks
- Rust stains from sprinklers or fertilizer
- Weeds and moss in cracks and joints
What causes the dirt and stains
- Vehicle drips and tire rubber
- Dirt, pollen and leaves ground in by traffic
- Mildew in shaded and damp spots
- Iron in well water or fertilizer leaving rust marks
What you can do yourself
- Blot fresh oil with cat litter and sweep it up after a day
- Sweep regularly so leaves don't leave tannin stains
- Fix leaking vehicles to stop new spots
- Avoid deicers that contain ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate, which damage concrete
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
What can go wrong with DIY pressure washing
- Stripes and swirl marks from using a wand instead of a surface cleaner
- Etched concrete from a narrow tip held too close
- Oily wash water running into the street and storm drains
- Spreading oil around instead of lifting it
What happens on the day
- Sweep and inspect the driveway and note stains
- Degrease oil spots and pre-treat mildew
- Clean the whole surface with a rotary surface cleaner
- Detail edges, joints and expansion cracks
- Rinse, post-treat and walk the driveway with you
Typical driveway cleaning for concrete prices
What moves the price:
- Size: square footage of siding, roof or flatwork
- Condition: heavy growth, old stains and peeling finishes take longer
- Access: number of stories, roof pitch, slopes and how close we can park
- Add-ons: sealing, gutter brightening and other services done in the same trip
These are typical U.S. ranges, not a quote. You get an exact price before any work starts. For a quick estimate, try the pressure washing cost calculator.
Other services for concrete
- Pressure Washing for Concrete
- Sidewalk & Walkway Cleaning for Concrete
- Patio Cleaning for Concrete
- Pool Deck Cleaning for Concrete
- Concrete Sealing for Concrete
- Rust Stain Removal for Concrete
- Oil Stain Removal for Concrete
- Graffiti Removal for Concrete
- Gum Removal for Concrete
- Efflorescence Removal for Concrete
- Exterior Mold & Mildew Removal for Concrete
- Commercial Pressure Washing for Concrete
- Parking Lot & Garage Cleaning for Concrete
- HOA & Apartment Pressure Washing for Concrete
Local driveway cleaning for concrete for Davis, CA
Driveways and patios in California collect oil, dust and tire marks over the long dry season. Cleaning with a surface cleaner and controlling the wash water keeps it out of storm drains.
Some cities in California limit outdoor water use, including washing hard surfaces with a hose, especially during drought declarations. Pressure washers use far less water than an open garden hose, but rules vary, so it's worth checking your city's current restrictions. Wash water should also be kept out of storm drains.
Crews serve all of Davis (ZIP codes 95616, 95617 and 95618), plus Dixon (8.2 mi), Woodland (9.4 mi), West Sacramento (11.6 mi) and Winters (12.5 mi). Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote in Davis.
Driveway Cleaning for Concrete: frequently asked questions
How much does driveway cleaning for concrete cost in Davis, CA?
Driveway Cleaning for Concrete typically costs $150-$400 for a typical two-car driveway, and usually takes 1-2 hours. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for driveway cleaning for concrete?
For concrete: usually 2,500-3,500 PSI with a rotary surface cleaner for even results. What we avoid: holding a narrow tip close to the surface, which etches lines into the cream layer of the concrete. We keep the pressure even and controlled, with the right tools for the surface.
Is driveway cleaning for concrete safe for my plants and pets?
We pre-wet plants and lawns, keep cleaning solutions diluted to what the surface needs, and rinse landscaping again when we finish. Keep pets and children inside until surfaces are rinsed and dry.
How often should I schedule driveway cleaning for concrete?
Every year, or every 6 months in shaded, damp spots. Shade, nearby trees, humidity and heavy traffic mean more frequent cleaning; sunny, dry spots can go longer. Our free cleaning frequency tool gives a recommendation for your climate.
What if it rains on the day?
Light rain doesn't stop most washing, but heavy rain, high wind, lightning and freezing temperatures do. If the weather isn't right, we reschedule at no charge. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.