Why You Should Reconsider Pressure Washing Your Drive

Stephen Turnbull • September 13, 2023

With Autumn having arrived, some people are taking advantage of the last flushes of summer weather to get one last cleaning project out of the way before the wind, rain and frost make it substantially more difficult to achieve over the next six months.


Because of this push to get stuff done, using a
pressure washer to jet away the dirt, grime and debris from their paving can seem like the best possible answer, particularly as the nights start to get darker and longer.


However, whilst it is far easier, there are quite a few reasons to think twice before pressure washing your paving.


Potential Surface Damage


Pressure washers are incredibly powerful, which is what gives them their cleaning power. However, the water jet is far more forceful and powerful than you may think, and drive materials have different tolerances for the constant water spray.


It can lead to erosion of gravel, pitting in asphalt and potential crashes in concrete depending on how intensely focused the jet of water is.


Damages Surrounding Areas


The blast of water can cause some significant damage to nearby surfaces due to the violent splashback, causing peeling paint, damaged stickers and more substantial issues to lighter surfaces such as fencing.


Increased Water Bills


Whilst the end of summer sees the end of hosepipe bans, it goes without saying that an intensely powerful jet washer uses a lot of water, which can get particularly expensive if you use it with regularity.


Damages Greenery


Hedges, lawns, plants and other greenery near your drive could end up at risk of damage due to the power of the jet washer.


It can damage flowers, strip away leaves and even pull out plants entirely, as well as having the potential to cause soil runoff, damaging your lawn’s quality in the process.


There are plenty of ways to care for your drive over the autumn, but try to avoid the temptation to quickly jet wash it before the end of the year. Instead, opt for a professional clean from a trusted service.