The secret to pressure washing for exposed aggregate is using the right method, not the most pressure. In Columbia, 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.
Method and pressure
Cleaning solution: A concrete pre-treatment and degreaser as needed.
Caring for exposed aggregate
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.
When to book pressure washing for exposed aggregate
- Driveway or walkways look dark, gray or streaky
- Green or black growth in shaded areas and along edges
- Slippery surfaces after rain
- Oil, rust or tire marks you can't scrub out
- You're getting ready to sell, seal or paint
Why it gets dirty
- Dirt and pollen that settle into the pores of concrete
- Mold, mildew and algae in damp, shaded spots
- Oil and fluid drips from vehicles
- Rust from sprinklers, furniture and fertilizer
- Tire marks and general foot traffic
Easy upkeep between cleanings
- Sweep off leaves and loose debris so they don't stain
- Blot fresh oil drips with cat litter or an absorbent right away
- Point sprinklers away from walls and walkways to cut down on rust and hard-water stains
- Rinse pollen off with a garden hose during heavy pollen season
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Etched lines and 'zebra stripes' from holding a narrow tip too close
- Water forced into window frames, door sills and siding laps
- Damaged plants and lawns from chemical runoff
- Injuries: a zero-degree tip can cut skin, and wet surfaces are slippery
How we handle pressure washing for exposed aggregate
- Walk the property and note surfaces, stains and anything fragile
- Protect plants, outlets, lights and doors, and move small items
- Pre-treat organic growth and degrease oil spots
- Clean with the right pressure and a surface cleaner for even results
- Rinse, post-treat to slow regrowth, and walk the job with you
Pressure Washing for Exposed Aggregate cost in Columbia, SC
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
- Driveway Cleaning 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
Serving Columbia, SC and nearby towns
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.
Besides Columbia (ZIP codes 29201, 29202, 29203, 29204, 29205 and more), we handle pressure washing for exposed aggregate in West Columbia (2.3 mi), Forest Acres (2.9 mi), Cayce (3.3 mi) and Saint Andrews (4.8 mi). Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote in Columbia.
Pressure Washing for Exposed Aggregate: frequently asked questions
How much does pressure washing for exposed aggregate cost in Columbia, SC?
Pressure Washing for Exposed Aggregate typically costs $150-$600 for a typical home's driveway, walkways and patio, and usually takes 1-4 hours. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for pressure washing 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 pressure washing 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 pressure washing 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.