Pressure Wash Concrete
Periodic cleaning of concrete helps to extend the value, beauty and service life of the surface. A pressure washer is the ideal tool to clean and sanitize large concrete surfaces, and most user-friendly models can be operated with little effort. All of the necessary materials, including the pressure washer, can be bought or rented through your local hardware store. In order to successfully pressure wash concrete, you will need to prep the surface, select and utilize the appropriate pressure washer settings and spend some time carefully operating the machine. Read the article below for specific instructions on how to pressure wash concrete.
Steps
- Select the appropriate equipment and settings. A gas or electric washer with a pressure rating of at least 3,000 PSI, and a flow rate of at least {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} per minute, will effectively clean exterior concrete. Set the spray nozzle to high pressure and use a 40-inch spray tip. Add an appropriate cleaning solution to the reservoir.
- Prep the concrete surface. Proper preparation is the key to a successful concrete cleaning experience. It will make the job quicker and easier for the do-it-yourselfer.
- Remove any obstacles or large debris from the cleaning area. You will need to temporarily relocate any patio furniture, planters, etc.
- Dampen and cover nearby plants or gardens to protect them from the high pressure spray and cleaning chemicals. You can use any non-porous cover such as a tarp or plastic tablecloth.
- Cover all exposed outlets or electrical wires. If outlet covers do not exist, seal them with plastic and water-proof tape.
- Remove dense areas of oil or grease with tri-sodium phosphate (TSP). Apply the product per the manufacturer's instructions and be careful to follow all safety precautions.
- Test the spray on a small area to get used to its power. You may increase or decrease the power of the spray by adjusting either the nozzle setting or the distance at which you are holding the wand from the concrete.
- Work in a steady manner, pressure washing one section at a time before proceeding. This will ensure that there are no uneven streaks in the concrete once it dries. Follow the slope of the concrete to optimize proper draining and run-off.
Tips
- Hot-water pressure washers are more effective than their cold-water counterparts ,as the hotter water temperature helps to lift dirt, grime, grease and oil.
- Select a water source that provides the appropriate volume of necessary water to ensure that the unit's pump is not damaged.
Warnings
- Take necessary safety precautions when using tri-sodium phosphate as it can cause injury to your eyes, lungs and skin.
- Avoid pressure washing stenciled or imprinted concrete, as the pressure of the spray can wash off the design.
Related Articles
- Buy a Pressure Washer
Sources and Citations
- http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/cleaning_concrete/equipment_options.htm
- http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/cleaning_concrete/chemicals_help.htm
- ES: limpiar concreto con una máquina de presión
