Short answer: Concrete, pavers, and decks should not be cleaned with one universal pressure setting. Surface material, age, joints, coatings, drainage, nearby plants, and the type of buildup determine the equipment and technique.
Pressure washing can refresh exterior surfaces, but more force is not automatically better. A professional result balances cleaning power with surface protection and responsible control of wash water.
Concrete is strong but not indestructible
Driveways, walkways, and patios vary in age, finish, curing, cracking, and previous repairs. A surface cleaner can improve consistency on suitable flat concrete, while edges and detailed areas may need a different approach. Existing flaking, weak patches, coatings, and open cracks should be identified first.
Pavers include joints that need attention
Interlocking pavers have joints that may contain sand, moss, or weeds. Cleaning can dislodge loose joint material, so the expected finish and any separate re-sanding needs should be discussed. Uneven pavers, loose edges, and drainage routes are also part of the site review.
Decks and softer materials require restraint
Wood, composite, painted, and coated surfaces can mark or strip when the method is too aggressive. Grain direction, nozzle distance, pressure, and a test area matter. Cleaning cannot reverse rot, failing coatings, or permanent weathering, and these conditions may become more visible afterward.
The type of stain affects the likely result
General dirt, algae, and organic film are different from oil, rust, paint, mineral deposits, or deeply embedded staining. Photos help, but a site test may be needed before promising a specific improvement. A clear quote should name the surfaces and cleaning scope rather than guarantee that every mark will disappear.
Runoff is part of the job plan
The City of Vancouver states that contaminated water or wastewater must not be discharged to a storm sewer. Drains, slopes, sediment, detergents, and nearby landscaping should therefore be reviewed before work starts, and wastewater must be managed appropriately for the site.
Aster Landscaping provides suitable driveway, sidewalk, concrete, paver, patio, deck, garage-floor, and gutter cleaning services across Metro Vancouver. Send surface photos, approximate dimensions, stain details, and access information for a quotation.
Sources and further reading
- City of Vancouver: Parkade Drainage and Pressure-Washing Wastewater Guidance
- City of Vancouver: Sewer and Watercourse By-law 8093
Our guides combine reputable regional sources with practical observations from a crew bringing more than 15 years of hands-on outdoor service experience.
