Why concrete gets dirty
In warm, humid climates like Southeast Texas, algae, mold, and mildew grow quickly on concrete. Add tire marks, leaf stains, and oil drips, and a driveway can look years older than it is.
The dark streaks and green patches are mostly organic growth sitting on and just below the surface. Cleaning removes the buildup but cannot reverse staining that has soaked in.
Surface cleaning vs. pressure
A surface cleaner is a round attachment with a spinning bar of nozzles. It cleans large flat areas evenly and leaves fewer streaks than a single wand nozzle.
For most driveways, a surface cleaner followed by a rinse gives a cleaner, more consistent result than holding a wand at the concrete by hand.
Safety and prep
Before you start
- Close windows and doors and cover vents near the work area
- Move vehicles, plants, and fragile items clear of overspray
- Wear closed-toe shoes and eye protection
- Keep the wand moving — holding one spot too long etches concrete
- Be aware of electrical outlets, lights, and low-voltage wiring
