How to Clean Your Driveway – Simple Steps for a Longer-Lasting Finish
Why It’s Important to Clean Your Driveway Regularly
Driveways take a lot of wear. From weather and foot traffic to oil stains and moss, the surface outside your home can quickly start to look tired if not maintained. Whether you’ve invested in a new installation or want to restore an older surface, knowing how to clean your driveway properly will keep it looking great and extend its lifespan.
At Neil Walker Driveways, we recommend homeowners clean their drives at least once or twice a year. It doesn’t take much, but done right, it can make a dramatic difference to kerb appeal and overall property presentation.
Tools You’ll Need to Clean Your Drive
Before you get started, it helps to gather the right tools for the job. The method you use may vary slightly depending on your driveway surface, but the basics are usually the same.
Essentials:
- A stiff outdoor brush or broom
- Pressure washer (or hose with spray attachment)
- Eco-friendly cleaner or detergent
- Bucket and watering can
- Weed removal tool (for joints or cracks)
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Driveway Safely
1. Clear the Area
Remove any vehicles, plant pots or obstacles. Brush away loose dirt and debris with a stiff broom.
2. Apply a Cleaning Solution
Use a biodegradable patio or driveway cleaner and follow the instructions carefully. These are generally safe for most surfaces and help loosen oil stains, algae and general grime. Avoid using bleach, especially on block paving, as it can discolour the surface and damage surrounding plants.
3. Use a Pressure Washer (With Care)
Pressure washing is an effective way to clean your driveway, but it should be used with caution. Too much pressure or the wrong nozzle can erode joints or dislodge block paving. Always test a small patch first and avoid pointing directly into joints.
4. Refill Joints if Needed
If you’re cleaning a block paving driveway, you may need to re-sand the joints using kiln-dried sand once it’s fully dry. This helps prevent movement and discourages weed growth.
5. Rinse and Repeat Annually
Once you’ve cleaned the surface thoroughly, rinse off any cleaner with fresh water. Make a note to clean your drive every spring and autumn, or more frequently in shaded or damp areas where moss is likely to develop.
Dealing with Common Driveway Issues
Over time, driveways can develop stubborn stains or growth that regular cleaning might not resolve. Here are a few targeted tips:
- Oil stains: Apply a degreasing product or washing-up liquid and scrub with a stiff brush.
- Weeds and moss: Use a manual weeding tool or a non-toxic moss killer safe for paved areas.
- Algae or lichen: For persistent patches, a patio-specific cleaner with biocide (algae killer) can be effective — Check RHS guidelines on algae for advice.
If your driveway surface is heavily damaged or no longer responding to cleaning, it may be time to consider a more permanent solution such as resurfacing or a full replacement.
Maintain the Value of Your Driveway
Regular maintenance is a simple but effective way to protect your investment. At Neil Walker Driveways, we install every drive with durability in mind – but like anything outdoors, it needs occasional care to stay at its best.
Whether it’s monoblock, tarmac or a luxury block finish, the best way to get the most from your installation is to clean your driveway and check it for signs of wear. A few hours a year can save you costly repairs down the line.
Thinking of a New Driveway?
If your current driveway is beyond a simple clean, or you’re looking for something fresh, we’d be happy to help. Neil Walker Driveways offers expert installations across Glasgow and surrounding areas, with no upfront payments and a 5-year workmanship warranty.
We’re trusted by hundreds of homeowners to deliver high-quality, long-lasting results – with a finish that’s easy to maintain for years to come.
