Exterior Surfaces
How Often Should You Pressure Wash Your Driveway in South Florida?
By Solpath Window Detailing · Published · Updated
Most South Florida driveways in full sun look good with pressure washing once a year. Driveways shaded by trees or the house, and paver driveways that hold moisture, usually need it about every six months, because black growth returns faster where the surface stays damp. Rust stains from sprinklers are a separate problem that washing alone will not fix.
A schedule by situation
| Situation | Suggested frequency | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Full sun, no trees, no sprinklers on it | Once a year | Slow buildup of dirt and tire marks |
| Shaded by trees or the house | About every six months | Black growth returns faster where the surface stays damp |
| Pavers | Every six months to a year | The joints hold moisture and grow weeds and algae |
| Under oaks or other heavy trees | About every six months | Leaf staining on top of the growth |
| Sprinklers on well water | Treat the rust first | Washing will not remove it, and it returns with the water |
What grows on a driveway
The black patches on concrete in South Florida are algae and mildew growing into the surface, fed by humidity and shade. They start in the shaded strip beside the house and under parked cars, and they make concrete slippery when it is wet.
Doing it without damage
- Flat concrete is cleaned with a surface cleaner, which gives an even finish instead of stripes
- Pavers are washed with care, because pressure pulls sand out of the joints
- Edges, steps and corners are finished by hand
- Plants and grass along the edges are wetted before and rinsed after
- Cracked or lifting sections are pointed out before the machine starts
Re-sanding and sealing pavers
After pavers are washed, the joints usually need topping up with sand, and some owners choose to seal them. Both are worth raising when you get a quote from anyone, so you know what is and is not included.
