How to Pressure Wash Cement

Cement is a widely used material in driveways, industrial buildings and even in home showers and decks. Cleaning this element, however, can be a difficult task. Dirt and grime make their way into the numerous bumps and cracks of the uneven surface and can be difficult to remove. Pressure washing forces the dirt out with minimal effort and no manual scrubbing. Pressure washers can be intimidating for those who have never used one, but they are actually relatively simple to operate.

Things You'll Need

• Bleach
• Broom
• Mop
• Unscented cat litter
• Pressure washer

Instructions

1. Clear the area to be washed of any loose items, such as toys, hoses and other household items that may be lying around.

2. Sweep the area off using a broom.

3. Soak up any grease or oil on the cement by sprinkling unscented cat litter over the oily spots and waiting five minutes.

4. Spray the cat litter off by quickly running the pressure washer over the driveway or sweep it off with a broom.

5. Mix one part bleach with three parts water and spread the solution over the cement using a mop.

6. Allow the bleach to sit on the driveway for five to 10 minutes.

7. Turn on the pressure washer and aim it at the ground at the back end of the driveway.

8. Slowly walk backwards to the front end of the driveway, spraying the driveway as you go. Pressure wash the driveway with a sweeping motion across the entire driveway as you walk.

Tips & Warnings

• After pressure washing your driveway, consider resealing it to keep it clean longer.

• Be careful using bleach around plants. Bleach left on plants can kill them, so be sure to spray nearby plants off thoroughly or use a natural cleaning solution, such as SImple Green, instead of chemical bleach.

References

• http://www.ultimatewasher.com/pressure-washing-driveways.htm