it is important to make a good first impression. It’s possible to ruin a clean, inviting house with a dirty driveway. Driveways can look dingy due to things like moss, lichen, and oil stains. In this article, we’ll look at five easy steps to keep your driveway clean and off your to-do list.
Step 1 – Remove the oil stains
The spillage of oil, brake fluid, or petrol on your driveway can leave unsightly stains. Be sure to remove spills from your driveway as soon as you notice them because once they dry, they are harder to remove. You can use natural absorbents such as cat litter, baking soda, or sawdust for this purpose. Your chosen absorbent should be applied to the stain and left to act while the oil absorbs.
Step 2 – Prepare the area by sweeping it
The area should be swept of any absorbents and debris using a stiff bristled outdoor broom. To achieve the best finished look, remove large weeds and trim back any plants, grass or vegetation. Whenever moss and lichen accumulate, they cause large discolored areas. To clean them off, you’ll need more than just a sweep.
Step 3 – Use a stain remover
Stain removers will help you remove old oil stains, paint spills, or rusty marks. Stain removers that contain acid might damage your driveway or surrounding plants if you don’t use them carefully. It is recommended to dilute most household stain removers before using them, but some can be used at full strength for the toughest stains. The handling of chemicals of this kind requires care, so consider getting expert assistance to avoid any accidents.
Step 4 – Clean with a pressure washer
If your driveway is covered with moss, mildew, or lichen, pressure washing can help remove them. To ensure you’re using the right pressure, detergent, and nozzle for your pressure washer, always check its manual. To avoid messy splashes, protect nearby plants, wear waterproof clothing, and wash downhill and away from your house and cars.
Step 5 – Sealant application
Over time, British weather can corrode and discolour a driveway. By applying a sealant, you can prevent weather damage, weed growth, and staining on your driveway. A sealant will extend your driveway’s life and keep it looking good. It is very similar to redecorating a room – sealants must be mixed well, edges should be ‘cut in’, and a paint tray and long pile roller will be needed.
You don’t have to put off driveway cleaning because it’s just a big job. Keeping on top of weeding, sweeping often and cleaning spills as they happen will help to maintain a driveway you can be proud of.