Safely Power Wash Painted Concrete

Painted concrete, just like other concrete surfaces, can be a beautiful addition to any property. Furthermore, concrete is very durable and, when properly maintained, can last for decades. The color hardeners that are added to the surface will add resistance and prevent water prevention, furthering the strength and longevity of the surface. Oftentimes, a sealer is added to the concrete after it is fully dried. These are used to prevent dirt, oil, grease and other substances from penetrating the surface. However, this beautiful surface still needs to be cleaned every so often, and your best option is to power wash painted concrete.

MORE: Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Rust Stains.

Unfortunately, painted concrete is naturally a porous surface and will become dirty overtime, even after properly sealed. The use of the sealers can prolong the length of time between cleanings and will prevent color fading by UV rays. However, even when properly sealed, many factors play into the potential damage that can be done to painted concrete. Some of these include weather conditions, foot traffic and usage. Power washing painted concrete is the most important aspect of maintaining its beauty and life.

What is needed to power wash painted concrete?:

• Power Washer
• Pump Sprayer
• Leaf Blower
• Sodium Hypochlorite (bleach)
• Water Access

Consider the following as well:

• Long Pants
• Safety Glasses
• Gloves
• A Mask or Face Covering

5 Easy Steps to Power Washing Painted Concrete

Step 1 – Rinse Surrounding Area

An often overlooked step in the power washing process is to rinse the surrounding area. During this time, soak the grass, plants, and bushes surrounding the area you will be cleaning. The purpose of this is to prevent any damage that can be done by the cleaning solution used. This cleaning solution contains a mix of water and bleach. If not properly mixed and used, this can cause damage to plant life. So be sure to soak the surrounding area with just water before using the cleaning solution. 

Step 2 – Apply Cleaning Solution

Think of the cleaning solution as the laundry detergent to your clothes. This is what will actually clean your painted concrete. So, why is it needed? Painted concrete is very fragile. It is prone to chip and peeling, so you want to avoid using pressure when cleaning, or you risk damaging and/or removing the paint.

You want to mix 50% water with 50% sodium hypochlorite in a pump sprayer. Once mixed, shake the sprayer to get an even mix and begin spraying the painted concrete. Do not over apply the solution, you are looking for a nice even layer of cleaning solution across the entire surface. Once completed, put the sprayer down and go relax for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cleaning solution to penetrate the concrete and bond with any dirt and grime that is in the pores. 

Step 3 – Soft Wash 

CAUTION! This is the one part that can cause damage, so please read thoroughly. This is the power washing step of cleaning painted concrete. You will be using the soft wash technique, which is simply low water pressure combined with a cleaning solution. So, you have already added your cleaning solution, and it is now time to power wash. You are looking for a pressure similar to if you placed your thumb over a garden hose. With the vast majority of power washers, this can be accomplished by using the black tip nozzle on the end of your wand. Be careful because if you use the wrong pressure, you can effortlessly peel the paint off the concrete. If this is your first time, I suggest testing your water pressure on a safe area that will not be seen. 

During this time, you should be holding the wand completely vertical and move it side to side in a sweeping motion. Use a consistent and constant speed to prevent damage. Continue around the entire concrete surface.

What to take a deep look into soft washing? Check out this previous article covering the Difference between Power  Washing and Soft Washing.

Step 4 – Cleanup

Sometimes during the soft wash process, loose dirt/mud, grass and leaves can kick up onto the concrete. You want to remove all that loose debris to prevent staining on the concrete. I recommend using a leaf blower, walking the entire surface and blowing any debris or still water off the concrete. During this time, you should also be inspecting your work and searching for any spots that you may have missed or need to be hit again. Resist the urge to increase the pressure to clean that stubborn area, I promise you will regret it.

Step 5 – Enjoy Your Work

This is the best part of the entire process. Grab a drink, step back and marvel at your wonderful cleaning job. If I was there, I would pat you on the back and say nice job! If you are feeling extra excited, take a couple of pictures and send them to your friends to brag about how awesome you are. 

Maintaining Painted Concrete

Great job, your painted concrete surface is now shiny and clean. So let’s talk about the proper ways to maintain your concrete to preserve its beauty and prolong its life-span. The most important thing to remember is trying to prevent dirt and leaves from remaining on the surface for an extended amount of time. You should sweep, rinse or leaf blow any debris that is on your concrete. This will prevent staining due to weather moisture such as rain and snow. 

Your other option is to consider applying a concrete sealer once it is fully cleaned and dried. Like previously mentioned, these sealers will, well, seal your concrete and help in maintaining their beauty. However, you still must sweep and rinse the surface to really prevent any staining or dirty spots.

If you decide to seal, follow the instructions on the back of the product you decide to purchase. Usually, the application process is straightforward and consists of using a 1’ nap roller and rolling it on the surface in an even coat, similar to painting. A second coat should be applied once the first coat is no longer sticky to the touch. You want temperatures to be between 55 F and 90 F. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your product. Resealing can be applied after every power washing or approximately every 2-4 years depending on usage. 

Local Requirements to Consider

Depending on which chemicals you use, water runoff may, in fact, be prohibited from entering storm drains. Local municipal laws will vary depending on location. This may or may not affect you, so be sure to check with your local code requirements.

Professional Power Washing of Painted Concrete

Power washing can often be a DIY job. However, like most services, an experienced professional can achieve cleaning results that would be hard for a DIYer to reach. Just as a disclaimer, we regularly get calls to fix or finish jobs that DIYers have started. They either messed something up or realized the job was a bigger undertaking than they planned. This may not apply to you, but it’s something to think about. 

Check out the major differences between Professional Power Washing v DIY Power Washing.

However, I strongly suggest hiring a professional to power wash painted concrete. This is a very delicate surface which can be damaged effortlessly. Furthermore, if your paint is older and possibly already chipping in some places, it is likely you will worsen it with inexperience. I provide completely free instant estimates and would love to come clean your property. Reach out, no strings attached, and get your quote now.

Decided to take on the task yourself? Take a quick look at the Most Common Power Washing Mistakes first.