Pressure washing is a great way to clean the grunge and grime from Athens concrete driveways, pathways and patios. By using a pressure washer properly, you’ll eliminate ugly oil stains and the danger that someone will slip on slick dirt or muck. A pressure washing machine is not always easy to handle, and should you have any misgivings, you should call your Athens pressure washing contractor to handle the job effectively and efficiently.
- Assess your project and develop a plan for cleaning that considers what direction the concrete surface drains and the location of fragile objects such as plantings and light fixtures. Work in the direction that water drains so you’re not fighting gravity.
- Select a nozzle, or tip, for the project which will also determine the PSI. The smallest angle, or opening, will deliver the most power. Most manufacturers suggest a higher PSI of 3000 or more cleaning concrete and most models include nozzles specifically for cleaning concrete; consult the owner’s manua
- Attach any accessories when you connect the nozzle.
- Put on protective eyewear and gloves before starting your pressure washer. Also, check that all connections are tight; a loose nozzle can become a projectile that can hurt people or damage property when you power up.
- Start the pressure washer and test the spray. Begin by spraying away from the concrete surface and then slowly point the wand toward it from 3 to 4 feet away.
- Make a few passes and then stop for a moment to see if the surface is clean. If not, move closer. Make slow, methodical passes to rinse the concrete of all dirt and other debris using water only.
- After turning the pressure washer off, add a chemical for treating concrete; consult the owner’s manual for help selecting the right chemical solution. If you won’t be applying a chemical solution to the surface, proceed to step 11.
- Add the chemical using the injector or special nozzle on the pressure washer.
- Start the pressure washer and test the spray. Begin by spraying away from the concrete surface and then slowly point the wand toward it from approximately the same distance as when you rinsed it. Make slow, methodical passes to coat the concrete evenly with the chemical solution.
- After waiting 5 to 10 minutes to let the solution work, pressure wash the concrete again using water to rinse away the chemical.
- Allow the pathway to dry for 48 hours before sealing or coating the concrete.
Now your Athens home is one more step closer to being in perfect shape for summer outdoor activities!
Article Source: https://www.ehow.com/how_172409_pressure-wash-concrete.html
