Can you jet wash imprinted concrete?
One of the most frequently asked questions about pattern imprinted concrete cleaning is, “Can you jet wash imprinted concrete?” Pattern imprinted concrete has been our speciality for many years. And we believe that cleaning pattern imprinted concrete is a simple process if you know how. Jet washing the surface at low pressure with a pressure washer and a broom is all that is required. Then your driveway or patio will be restored to its former glory. Jet washing is part of the cleaning and sealing process which we’ll cover in more detail below.
Preserving and protecting imprinted concrete
Regularly sealing imprinted concrete preserves the existing sealers, ensuring they remain effective over time. A significant benefit of cleaning is the protection it offers against exposure to harsh elements and vehicle traffic. As the materials of sealers degrade with time, leaving the concrete increasingly susceptible to deterioration, prolonged exposure to weather exacerbates the damage. Furthermore, harmful particles that compromise sealers can penetrate and damage them, underscoring the importance of thorough cleaning to maintain their integrity.
Cleaning and sealing pattern imprinted concrete
It is recommended that pattern imprinted concrete be re-coated every three to five years if it is still in good condition. You’ll know when it’s time to get rid of it since it’ll start to show a few signs:
- Colour is fading.
- As the concrete’s water-resistant layer wears away, algae take hold.
- The concrete has begun to show signs of oil staining.
- Concreting decay.
Concrete sealer's advantages
The shine and strength of pattern imprinted concrete can be maintained if it is regularly maintained. So it doesn’t require a lot of time and effort to keep it running. Furthermore, a twenty-five-year-old pattern imprinted concrete installation still looks brand new.
- Achieve optimal functioning again.
- The material is waterproof.
- Reduced fading of colour.
- Prevents stains from forming.
- It’s simple to use.
Materials and equipment for preparation
You don’t need a lot of supplies to maintain your concrete patterned driveways in Huddersfield. However, preparation is essential for any successful endeavour.
- A pressure washer can be used to remove any dust or grime that has accumulated over time.
- The oil remover is used to remove oil stains.
- Algae and other green growths on the surface can be removed with moss cleaner.
- To remove all of the tyre and exhaust pollutants and residue you should use a driveway cleaner.
- Preparation helps remove the concrete’s pores, allowing the sealer to penetrate more easily and effectively. In addition, a pre-pressure washing cleaner can make life a lot more convenient.
How to clean and re-sealing patterned concrete
- Power wash the pattern imprinted concrete driveway or patio using soap and water to remove any dirt, debris, and algae. In addition, a fungicide and a power wash might be used for a more thorough cleaning. But let it dry before using clean water to remove any remaining dirt.
- To get rid of oil splatters and stains, use a degreasing product. Then apply the sealer with a broom or paint brush to a dry surface.
- The sealant should not puddle around the imprinted joints. So as an alternative, use a few thin coats, one on top of the other, in a row. With each new coat, the prior one grows stronger.
- Apply a second coat of sealer after allowing the sealant to cure and sink into the concrete. Then adding anti-slip additives to the last coat of sealer is a good idea because the sealer might become slippery at this stage.
It’s best not to drive on the driveway for a few days after it’s been thoroughly cleaned and resealed.
Conclusion
So yes, you can jet wash imprinted concrete but don’t turn it to full pressure and go really close. This is because you can get a fantastic finish without damaging the surface by opting for a lower setting.