Pressure Washing
High pressure, for the surfaces built to take it.
The method
Concrete, driveways, sidewalks, patios, and other hardscape can take pressure that would damage siding or a roof. That's why pressure washing, not soft washing, is the right method for them. Hardscape cleaning typically runs at higher pressure, often 3,000 to 4,000 PSI for broad concrete. The exact setting still depends on the surface's age, sealant, and condition. A wider fan tip spreads that pressure over more surface area. A narrower tip concentrates it for stubborn spots like oil stains or tire marks. Choosing the tip and distance correctly matters as much as the pressure setting itself.
Why it matters
Too little pressure on concrete just leaves dirt embedded in the surface's pores. That's a wasted trip more than a real risk. Too much pressure is the real hazard. So is the wrong nozzle, or holding the wand too close for too long. That combination can etch soft or aged concrete, leaving visible lighter patches or streak marks. Those marks don't wash out, because the surface itself has been altered, not just the dirt on it. Pavers and stamped or colored concrete are more sensitive than plain broom-finished concrete. They call for a lower setting. Matching pressure, tip, and distance to the specific surface is what prevents both problems.
What to expect
A surface gets checked before cleaning starts. Its age and whether it's sealed matter. So does any existing damage, like cracks or spalling. All of that affects how much pressure the surface can safely take. Cleaning generally proceeds section by section. The water moves at a consistent distance and angle, rather than lingering in one spot. Dwell time under high pressure is what causes etching, not the pressure setting alone. Oil stains, tire marks, and general grime lift with the combination of pressure and consistent technique. A degreaser is sometimes used ahead of the rinse on heavier stains. Some residues respond better to a cleaning agent first.
Questions
Questions about pressure washing
Can pressure washing damage my driveway?
It can, if the pressure, nozzle, or distance isn't matched to the surface. Too much pressure held too close can etch concrete, especially if it's sealed, colored, or stamped. Matching the setting to the surface is what prevents that.
What PSI do you use on concrete?
It depends on the surface's age and condition. Broad concrete cleaning typically falls in the 3,000 to 4,000 PSI range. The tip and distance get adjusted from there for stubborn spots like oil stains.
Why does pressure washing work for concrete but not for my roof?
Concrete and other hardscape are dense, non-porous, and built to shed water. They can take direct force without damage. Roofing, siding, and painted surfaces are layered, and that same force displaces them more easily. That's why they get soft washed instead.
Do you pre-treat oil stains?
Heavier stains sometimes get a cleaning agent applied before the pressure rinse. Some residues respond better to chemistry first, rather than pressure alone.
Get a quote for pressure wash.
Submit the form or call. You'll hear back with a price before anything is scheduled.