Can You Pressure Wash Concrete Driveways?

June 26, 2025

Your driveway is one of the first things people see when they arrive at your home — and it doesn’t take long for dirt, mould, tyre marks and oil stains to build up. Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to clean driveways, especially in Australia’s warm, humid climate where surfaces are prone to algae and grime.

In this blog, we take a look at the most common driveway materials found in Australian homes and whether they can be safely pressure cleaned.

Is Pressure Washing Safe for Driveways?

Yes — pressure washing is a safe and highly effective cleaning method for most driveways when carried out by trained professionals. It helps remove years of built-up grime and restore the surface to its original condition. However, not every material responds the same way. The type of driveway you have will determine the best approach.

Let’s break down the most common driveway types in Australia and whether they are suitable for professional pressure cleaning.

Concrete Driveways

Standard concrete driveways are one of the most commonly found surfaces across Australia. They’re durable, strong, and generally hold up well under pressure cleaning.

Concrete driveways can often be completely transformed after a professional pressure clean, with stains, mould, and discolouration removed without damaging the surface. If the surface is in good condition, pressure washing can be one of the easiest ways to bring it back to life.

Important to know: Older concrete or areas with existing cracks may need a gentler approach or pre-treatment. A professional will assess the condition of the surface before cleaning.

Coloured Concrete Driveways

Coloured concrete is a decorative option that adds style and character to a driveway. However, the surface colour may be more sensitive to certain cleaning methods.

The good news is that coloured concrete can still be pressure-washed effectively. Professionals will know how to manage the cleaning process to avoid discolouration or damage to the pigmented layer.

If you’ve noticed your coloured concrete fading or losing vibrancy, pressure cleaning can remove the built-up debris and grime that often dulls its appearance.

Exposed Aggregate Driveways

Exposed aggregate is a stylish and textured finish created by revealing the stones within the concrete. It’s popular in both modern and traditional homes thanks to its appearance and slip-resistant qualities.

While exposed aggregate is a durable surface, it can collect dirt and algae deep within the surface texture. That’s why pressure cleaning is often the best solution for giving exposed aggregate driveways a thorough clean.

Professional services ensure that the correct techniques are used to protect the integrity of the surface and avoid dislodging any stones. The end result is a cleaner, refreshed finish that looks as good as new.

Stamped or Decorative Concrete

Stamped concrete is patterned to resemble brick, stone, or tile, and it’s often sealed to protect its intricate surface. These driveways look great but require careful cleaning.

A professional pressure washing service can remove dirt, grime, and marks from stamped concrete without affecting the design. Special care is usually needed for these types of driveways, and a surface inspection before cleaning is essential to ensure the decorative finish isn’t compromised.

If your stamped concrete is looking tired or has lost its shine, a professional clean can help restore its original detail and appeal.

Paver Driveways

Driveways made from pavers — whether brick or concrete — are another common sight in Australian homes. While attractive, pavers can trap weeds, moss, and dirt in the joints, making them difficult to clean without the right equipment.

Pressure washing is an effective way to clean paver driveways, but it needs to be done carefully to avoid disturbing the sand or mortar underneath. A qualified pressure washing service will have the experience to clean the surface while keeping the joints intact.

After cleaning, your paver driveway will not only look better, but it may also function better by reducing moss and weed growth.

Asphalt Driveways

While less common in residential areas compared to concrete or pavers, asphalt driveways are still used in some Australian homes, especially for longer driveways or rural properties.

Asphalt is more delicate than concrete and can be damaged if cleaned incorrectly. However, experienced pressure washing professionals know how to clean asphalt surfaces safely and gently, lifting surface debris without breaking down the top layer.

If you have an asphalt driveway, it’s best to book a specialist who understands the right way to handle the material and avoid potential damage.

What About Painted or Sealed Driveways?

Some homeowners choose to paint or seal their driveway for extra protection or aesthetic appeal. These surfaces can also be pressure cleaned, but additional care must be taken.

Professional services will assess whether your driveway has a painted or sealed surface and adjust their methods accordingly. In some cases, resealing may be recommended after cleaning to maintain protection.

Why Hire a Professional Pressure Cleaner?

While pressure washers are available to hire, using them without the right knowledge can damage surfaces or lead to uneven results. Hiring a professional ensures:

The right pressure and cleaning method is used for your driveway type
Stubborn stains like oil or tyre marks are properly treated
Mould and algae are removed without harming the surface
There’s no damage to joints, grout, or sealant

Professionals also bring commercial-grade equipment that delivers a deeper, more consistent clean than standard home units.

Regular Driveway Cleaning for Long-Term Maintenance

In Australia’s climate, driveways are regularly exposed to sun, rain, dirt, and plant growth. Left untreated, this build-up can lead to slippery surfaces and long-term staining.

Regular pressure cleaning: