Driveway Tips: Keep Your Driveway Clean and Strong

Got a driveway that looks dull or has oil spots? You don’t need a pro every time. With a few everyday tricks you can brighten the surface, stop weeds, and protect the concrete or asphalt from wear.

Easy Cleaning Hacks You Can Do Today

Start with a good sweep. A push broom gets rid of leaves, dirt, and grit that act like sandpaper on the surface. For oil stains, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or kitty litter right after the spill. Let it sit for 15‑20 minutes, then sweep it away. The powder absorbs the oil and makes it easier to scrub.

If the stain sticks, mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap and scrub with a stiff brush. Rinse with a garden hose. For tougher grime, blend equal parts white‑vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spray the area, wait a few minutes, then scrub. Vinegar cuts through mineral deposits without harsh chemicals.

Seal, Protect, and Save Money

Sealing your driveway once a year adds a protective layer that repels water and oil. Choose a clear sealer that matches your surface – acrylic for concrete, polymer‑based for asphalt. Apply with a roller on a dry day, let it dry for a few hours, and you’ll see a noticeable shine that also helps prevent cracks.

Don’t forget the little things that cause big damage. Keep weeds out by pulling them early and spreading a thin layer of sand or gravel between the cracks. This stops roots from lifting the surface and makes future cleaning easier.

Winter can be brutal. Spread a thin coat of sand or non‑clumping kitty litter after a snowfall to improve traction and absorb meltwater. If you use de‑icing salts, rinse the driveway when spring arrives to stop the salts from corroding the material.

For a fast, deep clean, consider renting a pressure washer. Set the nozzle to a 25‑degree fan and keep the wand at least 12 inches from the surface. Too much pressure can bite into the concrete, so start low and increase only if needed. A quick pass with the washer removes embedded dirt and makes your sealant last longer.

Finally, keep a small cleaning kit by the garage – broom, bucket, dish soap, baking soda, and a spray bottle. When you spot a mess, you’ll have everything on hand to act fast, and those small efforts add up to a driveway that stays looking new for years.

So next time you look at your driveway, remember: sweep, spot‑treat, seal, and protect. Simple steps, big results – and you’ll save time, money, and the hassle of calling a professional for every little issue.