Watch an Overview Video

Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials and Tools:

gloves
eye protection
detergent
pressure washer with nozzle
sandblaster attachment and baking soda (optional)
broom or leaf blower

Prep the Area

Pressure-washing can make a grimy concrete, paver or stone walk look like new. Do not power wash laminar sandstone.

Clear all obstacles from cleaning area, and sweep or blow all loose debris from walk.

Dampen nearby vegetation and cover shrubs and flowers with tarps to prevent damage.

Tip: For residential cleaning, use electric power washer with at least 1000 PSI or gas-powered washer with at least 2000 PSI. If mobility is issue, use gas-powered washer. If walk is stained with hard contaminants like paint, use washer with higher pressure. A 40-degree nozzle gives optimal cleaning.

Wear protective goggles and clothing.

Never leave pressure washer running unattended; never point nozzle at person or animal; and never point nozzle at house or vehicle. Do not pressure-wash stenciled or imprinted walks.

Test small area of walk before power washing.

Apply Detergent to the Walk and Set the Nozzle

Apply detergent and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Choose detergent specific to what you are washing.

Set nozzle to high and use 40-inch spray. Make sure nozzle is proper distance from walk.

Tip: To prevent damage, keep the nozzle at least 3 or 4 inches from surface.

Wash the Walk in Sections

Work section by section to wash off detergent. Heavily soiled areas may need several passes.

Spread unscented cat litter over grease or oil stains and leave for 5 minutes before cleaning.

Allow walk to dry for 48 hours before sealing or coating.