The secret to driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate is using the right method, not the most pressure. In Gaffney, SC, we match the cleaner and pressure to the surface so it comes out clean without damage. With exposed aggregate, the right approach is moderate-pressure wash.
How we clean it
Cleaning solution: A concrete pre-treatment and degreaser as needed.
Cleaning exposed aggregate safely
Exposed aggregate concrete has stones showing at the surface. Too much pressure can loosen stones at the edges, and the surface looks best when cleaned and resealed.
Avoid: High pressure at edges and cracks, which can pop out aggregate.
How often: Clean yearly; reseal every 2-3 years.
Signs you need driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate
- Dark, blotchy or striped concrete
- Black mildew along edges and in shaded areas
- Oil spots and tire marks
- Rust stains from sprinklers or fertilizer
- Weeds and moss in cracks and joints
Why it gets dirty
- Vehicle drips and tire rubber
- Dirt, pollen and leaves ground in by traffic
- Mildew in shaded and damp spots
- Iron in well water or fertilizer leaving rust marks
Easy upkeep between cleanings
- Blot fresh oil with cat litter and sweep it up after a day
- Sweep regularly so leaves don't leave tannin stains
- Fix leaking vehicles to stop new spots
- Avoid deicers that contain ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate, which damage concrete
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
What can go wrong with DIY pressure washing
- Stripes and swirl marks from using a wand instead of a surface cleaner
- Etched concrete from a narrow tip held too close
- Oily wash water running into the street and storm drains
- Spreading oil around instead of lifting it
Our process for driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate
- Sweep and inspect the driveway and note stains
- Degrease oil spots and pre-treat mildew
- Clean the whole surface with a rotary surface cleaner
- Detail edges, joints and expansion cracks
- Rinse, post-treat and walk the driveway with you
Typical driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate prices
What moves the price:
- Size: square footage of siding, roof or flatwork
- Condition: heavy growth, old stains and peeling finishes take longer
- Access: number of stories, roof pitch, slopes and how close we can park
- Add-ons: sealing, gutter brightening and other services done in the same trip
These are typical U.S. ranges, not a quote. You get an exact price before any work starts. For a quick estimate, try the pressure washing cost calculator.
Other services for exposed aggregate
- Pressure Washing for Exposed Aggregate
- Sidewalk & Walkway Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate
- Patio Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate
- Pool Deck Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate
- Concrete Sealing for Exposed Aggregate
- Oil Stain Removal for Exposed Aggregate
Driveway Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate in Gaffney, SC
Shaded driveways, walkways and pool decks in South Carolina grow black mildew and algae quickly and can become slippery. Pre-treating the growth before washing, and post-treating after, keeps them clean longer than pressure alone.
Spring pollen season in South Carolina coats houses, cars, screens and patios in a yellow-green film, and pollen gives mildew something to feed on. Many homeowners book their wash after pollen season ends so the house stays clean longer.
Red clay soil is common in parts of South Carolina. Rain splashes it onto the bottom of the siding, walls and walkways, and its iron-rich color can stain light surfaces. It usually needs a dedicated clay or rust cleaner rather than pressure alone.
We provide driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate across Gaffney (ZIP codes 29340, 29341 and 29342) and nearby towns including East Gaffney (1.1 mi), Cowpens (9.5 mi), Boiling Springs, NC (12.6 mi) and Pacolet (13.5 mi). Call (877) 658-5887 for a free quote in Gaffney.
Driveway Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate: frequently asked questions
How much does driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate cost in Gaffney, SC?
Driveway Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate typically costs $150-$400 for a typical two-car driveway, and usually takes 1-2 hours. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (877) 658-5887 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate?
For exposed aggregate: usually 1,500-2,500 PSI with a surface cleaner. What we avoid: high pressure at edges and cracks, which can pop out aggregate. We keep the pressure even and controlled, with the right tools for the surface.
Is driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate safe for my plants and pets?
We pre-wet plants and lawns, keep cleaning solutions diluted to what the surface needs, and rinse landscaping again when we finish. Keep pets and children inside until surfaces are rinsed and dry.
How often should I schedule driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate?
Clean yearly; reseal every 2-3 years. Shade, nearby trees, humidity and heavy traffic mean more frequent cleaning; sunny, dry spots can go longer. Our free cleaning frequency tool gives a recommendation for your climate.
What if it rains on the day?
Light rain doesn't stop most washing, but heavy rain, high wind, lightning and freezing temperatures do. If the weather isn't right, we reschedule at no charge. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.