Though your driveway may be easy to overlook until it deteriorates to the point where walking or driving is hazardous, it also needs attention. A driveway that’s full of stains, algae, chips and cracks can reduce your property’s curb appeal. It may even lower your property’s resale value. Here are ways to clean your driveway for spring.

First Step, Inspect Your Driveway

Before you gather your cleaning tools, you’ll need to inspect your driveway. Identify all the stains, and know what material your driveway is made of. Though some cleansers work on all kinds of materials, there may be differences between the way you would treat brick as opposed to asphalt, stone or concrete.

Clear Away Debris

Make sure you completely clear debris from your driveway. Twigs, pebbles and dirt can damage the material and make it that much harder to properly clean. Make sure to remove the dirt that may accumulate in the corners. This can be done with your garden hose, though some people break out their leaf blower to do this.

Pre-treat Stains

If stains aren’t deep, regular cleaning can get rid of most of them. If they’re really deep-set, you may need something stronger, but not so harsh that it damages your driveway. One solution is the famous paste of baking soda and water. Let the paste sit on the stain for about 15 minutes, then scrub. Some experts recommend sprinkling kitty litter over grease or oil stains and leaving it for a few hours. The kitty litter will actually soak up the grease. You can then sweep it away.

Pressure Wash

With dirt and debris swept or hosed away and stains pre-treated, your driveway can now be pressure-washed. You can rent a pressure washer from a big box store or simply call in a professional to do this. A pressure washer can blast away moss, stubborn stains and grime and dirt that’s been ground into the driveway. However, the pressure can’t be too high. Very high pressure can damage your driveway even if it’s made of tough material, such as concrete or brick. Experts recommend using 2500 to 3000 pounds per square inch for asphalt or concrete, though you can go higher to spot clean a really recalcitrant stain. Pressure for your brick driveway is best between 1500 and 2500, as pressure higher than that can damage mortar. This is also the range for natural stone.

To pressure wash, start at the top of the driveway and work down. Make sure that the sprays overlap to cover the entire area, and wash away dirty water. After pressure washing, use a scrub brush on stubborn stains, gently rinse, then let your driveway dry in the spring sun.

If you live in Warner Robins, GA or a surrounding area and need driveway services, make your first call to Safe Site Services.