Reasons To Have Your Driveway Cleaned Professionally And How It's Done
If your property looks run down and neglected because your driveway is stained and dirty, consider calling a residential concrete cleaning service to restore the appearance of the concrete. Cleaning removes algae, stains, dirt, mold, and even weeds growing in the cracks so your driveway looks almost as good as new again. Here are some important reasons to have your driveway cleaned and an overview of how it's done.
Why You Should Clean Your Dirty Driveway
When guests approach your home, the driveway is the first thing they see. An ugly, stained driveway makes a bad impression. If you want your property to have good curb appeal, it's important to keep your driveway clean in addition to keeping your lawn and home in good repair.
Another important reason to clean your driveway is to make it safer. A thick layer of algae on a driveway in the shade can be slick and hazardous. A layer of dirt and grime can get slick too when it rains. A clean driveway has more traction, and it's easier to see.
Clean concrete can even be seen in the dark, whereas concrete that has large patches of dirt stains and algae can be nearly invisible at night since it has a dark color.
How A Professional Cleans A Concrete Driveway
A residential concrete cleaning service has tools, such as a power washer and cleaning chemicals, to get rid of the dirt and restore the color of the concrete. First, your driveway has to be blown or swept to get rid of leaves, grit, and twigs. Once the surface is clean, stains can be seen and treated with the right type of cleaners. The cleaners may be left to work on the stains for several minutes so the algae or dirt is easier to rinse away.
When it's time to power wash the driveway, the cleaning service may cover your plants and flowers so they aren't damaged by the strong stream of water. The person controlling the power washer chooses the right nozzle so the pressure is under control. Excessive pressure could damage the concrete and leave it with streaks.
When the cleaning solution is ready to be washed off, the cleaning professional uses a steady and strong stream of water to rinse away the cleaning products and lift algae and stains too. Power washing can make a huge difference in the appearance of your driveway, especially if it had a heavy coating of algae or dirt before starting.
The concrete cleaning service might offer to apply a sealcoat to your driveway once it's clean. The coating protects your driveway from stains and keeps it cleaner longer. Plus, the coating gives the concrete a wet or shiny appearance that makes it look clean and fresh. However, a coating is optional and not necessary. Your driveway will still look clean and nearly new if all you do is have it professionally cleaned.
For more information, reach out to a residential concrete cleaning service.