The secret to driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate is using the right method, not the most pressure. In Cotati, CA, we match the cleaner and pressure to the surface so it comes out clean without damage. On exposed aggregate, the method we use is moderate-pressure wash.
How we clean it
Cleaning solution: A concrete pre-treatment and degreaser as needed.
Cleaning exposed aggregate safely
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 driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate
- Dark, blotchy or striped concrete
- Black mildew along edges and in shaded areas
- Oil spots and tire marks
- Rust stains from sprinklers or fertilizer
- Weeds and moss in cracks and joints
What causes the dirt and stains
- Vehicle drips and tire rubber
- Dirt, pollen and leaves ground in by traffic
- Mildew in shaded and damp spots
- Iron in well water or fertilizer leaving rust marks
What you can do yourself
- Blot fresh oil with cat litter and sweep it up after a day
- Sweep regularly so leaves don't leave tannin stains
- Fix leaking vehicles to stop new spots
- Avoid deicers that contain ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate, which damage concrete
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Why more pressure isn’t better
- Stripes and swirl marks from using a wand instead of a surface cleaner
- Etched concrete from a narrow tip held too close
- Oily wash water running into the street and storm drains
- Spreading oil around instead of lifting it
How we handle driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate
- Sweep and inspect the driveway and note stains
- Degrease oil spots and pre-treat mildew
- Clean the whole surface with a rotary surface cleaner
- Detail edges, joints and expansion cracks
- Rinse, post-treat and walk the driveway with you
How much does driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate cost?
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
- Pressure Washing 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 Cotati, CA and nearby towns
Driveways and patios in California collect oil, dust and tire marks over the long dry season. Cleaning with a surface cleaner and controlling the wash water keeps it out of storm drains.
Some cities in California limit outdoor water use, including washing hard surfaces with a hose, especially during drought declarations. Pressure washers use far less water than an open garden hose, but rules vary, so it's worth checking your city's current restrictions. Wash water should also be kept out of storm drains.
Besides Cotati (ZIP code 94931), we handle driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate in Rohnert Park (0.9 mi), Penngrove (2.9 mi), Petaluma (7.6 mi) and Santa Rosa (7.9 mi). Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote in Cotati.
Driveway Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate: frequently asked questions
How much does driveway cleaning for exposed aggregate cost in Cotati, CA?
Driveway Cleaning for Exposed Aggregate typically costs $150-$400 for a typical two-car driveway, and usually takes 1-2 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 driveway cleaning 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 driveway cleaning 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 driveway cleaning 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.