In this article, we dig deeper into the Best Pressure Washer for Concrete Driveways and how to clean a concrete driveway most effectively.
Have you ever used one of these fantastic tools to power wash a driveway or sidewalk? If not, a driveway pressure washer makes it easy to clean – and saves you countless hours of scrubbing with a brush and using a garden hose.
If you’re wondering What PSI (pounds per square inch) water pressure I need to Clean Concrete or if you can damage Concrete with a Pressure washer, we’ll help you sort all that out as well.
Our overall Top Choice is the Simpson MSH3125 MegaShot Gas Pressure Washer. It’s an all-around high-pressure (3,200 PSI) pressure washer that cleans everything from your driveway, walkway, fences, and patio furniture to even your vehicles!
Many pressure washers on the market just aren’t cut out for the job. Often, they don’t have the power to remove tough dirt and grime or harder-to-remove substances like oil on your driveway.
Low-cost pressure washers typically have pumps with very low life expectancies, sometimes as low as 60-100 hours.
We’ve put in a lot of research to make your decision easier. We’ve read the reviews and the manufacturer’s manuals and watched videos to ensure you decide which pressure washer you should buy.
Best Pressure Washer For Concrete Driveways:
Editors Pick: SIMPSON – 3200 PSI “MegaShot” Gas Pressure Washer
What’s the best pressure washer for driveways? The best pressure washer for concrete driveways is The Simpson Mega-Shot Pressure washer – with a HONDA 190cc engine. We believe there is no better pressure washer for cleaning concrete driveways and any other part of your home.
First, it’s got a premium Honda 190cc engine with an axial cam pump (no oil changes required). Top all that off with a 25 ft. “more flex” spray hose and add the premium hose connectors – and you’re in fantastic shape to pressure wash anything.
The Simpson MegaShot is an Amazon bestseller and includes a welded steel frame and larger 10″ pneumatic wheels vs. solid rubber wheels that don’t traverse over uneven ground well.
- HONDA GC190 premium residential engine
- Maintenance-free OEM Technologies axial cam pump
- 1/4 in. x 25 ft MorFlex hose is non-marring, kink, and abrasion resistant and equipped M22 connection
- Welded steel construction frame
- 10” Premium pneumatic wheels
- 5 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and soap
Runner Up: Westinghouse WPX3200 – Gas Pressure Washer
- Quiet instant start and stop system
- 212 cc – 4-stroke Westinghouse OHV engine
- Easy to fill – 1-gallon gas tank
- 2.5 GPM water pressure
- 25 ft. abrasion-resistant spray hose
- Includes Soap nozzle
- Onboard Soap container
- Five spray tips included
CONS:
- 12″ Never-Flat Wheels
- It’s not light, but the wheels work great for rolling the pressure washer through the grass.
- Lifting the machine can be heavy for some people.
Westinghouse “Gas Pressure Washer” Quick-Start Guide:
The Westinghouse WPX3200 (3,200 PSI) is our Runner-up model for driveways for a good reason.
This incredibly powerful Gas-powered pressure washer is a pro at doing light work – and keeping your property and possessions clean.
Quickly and effortlessly pressure wash driveway, fencing, patio, walkways, or vehicles with a whopping 3,200 PSI of water pressure.
It can easily switch between various cleaning tasks, including five spray tips (0 degrees, 5°, 15, 25, 40° & Soap).
Owners have found the Westinghouse a great unit for the price, well built, and very dependable. Others are delighted with how sturdy it is and appreciate the power, considering how compact the unit is.
Features of the Westinghouse WPX 3200
- High-powered gas motor – with 3200 MAX PSI (Pounds per square inch) at 2.5 GPM (Gallons per minute)
- Instant start and stop system – The induction motor only runs when the spray gun trigger is pulled, creating a quieter cleaning experience
- Soap Nozzle and onboard Soap dispenser.
- Twelve months of limited consumer warranty.
- The Pressure Washer’s Manufacturer’s Association (PWMA) tested, certified, and verified them. All water pressure and flow rate claims were independently assessed in a lab.
- Easily switch tasks – You could clean oil from a driveway in one minute and wash your car, deck, or house with the five different spray tips.
- 25-foot high-pressure hose – No need to struggle reaching hard to get to places with the 25-foot high
- Dimensions: 21 x 19 x 39 inches
- Item Weight – 62 pounds
We’ve chosen the Westinghouse for its superior cleaning power at an attractive price. You’re getting much more than just a power washer; this takes care of all of your cleaning needs…you’ll never again have to worry about scrubbing by hand.
Westinghouse WPX 3200 – Runner Up – Gas Pressure Washer
WESTINGHOUSE
Best “Heavy Duty” Pressure Washer – Simpson “Clean Machine” – 3,400 PSI
- Durable and powerful Simpson 208CC – CRX – OHV engine
- OEM Technologies Axial Camp Pump (NO Oil Changes -Ever)
- 5/16″ x 25′-0 Abrasion-resistant, Non-marring, Heavy duty Pressure Hose
- 10″ Pneumatic Tires Provide Stability on Uneven Ground
- 3,400 PSI With 2.0 Gallons per minute (GPM) water flow
- 24 months of limited consumer warranty and three months of the limited commercial warranty
- None – that we identified
The Simpson Gas-powered pressure washer is the most powerful of the three we’ve thoroughly researched and gets our vote for the best “heavy duty” pressure washer.
It has a water pressure of 3400 MAX PSI and a flow rate of 2.0 MAX GPM, and the long-lasting Simpson CRX 208cc engine – is ideal for Vinyl siding, fences, and Decks and as an ideal pressure washer for Concrete Driveways.
It also has a 25’ high-pressure hose, four quick-connect spray nozzle tips for precise cleaning control, and a 1-gallon detergent tank.
The 0-degree spray tip creates a concentrated, powerful stain and oil removal spray setting.
The 25-degree spray tip is designed to clean concrete, hardwoods, decking, patios, and driveways, with the 40-degree spray tip is suitable for cleaning cars and trucks.
Finally, the low-pressure soap spray can apply cleaning detergent before the final rinse.
Final Impressions:
We love the power of the Simpson Clean Machine, and it’s easy to assemble, so you can start using it fast. The hose and wand are also of higher quality than many other models’ units.
We also love the Simpson CRX 208cc engine; the self-encased axial pump never requires oil changes.
We recommend you run it empty of gas before winter sets in so it won’t freeze. Of course, that’s just for people up north, where gas can freeze if left dormant.
We also advise always releasing the water pressure and disconnecting the water supply line before disconnecting the wand.
This could be your unit if you want a more robust and flexible pressure washer.
Simpson – Heavy-Duty Gas-Powered Pressure Washer
SIMPSON
Best Value: “Electric” Pressure Washer – Sun Joe SPX3000
- Dual Detergent tanks – 2x 0.9-liter removable tanks
- Accessories – The two removable detergent tanks also come with five quick-connect spray tips, a 34-inch extension wand, a 20-foot high-pressure hose, a 35-foot power cord (CFCI protected), a garden hose adaptor, and a needle clean-out tool.
- Total Stop System (TSS) – Prolong pump life. When the trigger isn’t engaged, it automatically shuts off.
- Lower powered, less PSI than other models on the list.
- The connector/coupler is plastic out of the box, and owners like more durable metal.
- Some owners like aftermarket nozzles.
If you’re on a budget but are still looking for a small yet versatile pressure washer, then the Sun Joe Pressure Washer could be what you’re looking for.
America’s number #1 best-selling pressure washer, the Sun Joe SPX3000, is our “Best Value” choice to tackle a wide range of everyday cleaning tasks, from removing stubborn mildew and washing fences to cleaning your car.
It’s not hard to see why Pressure Joe is so popular. Owners have found it lightweight and easy to move around. It’s also very quiet and doesn’t have a noisy gas engine.
Some users have replaced the plastic connector with a brass or metal version. The manufacturer replaced this free of charge. However, they sell for a reasonable price on their website.
Features of the Sun Joe Pressure Washer:
- Lightweight, weighing only 31 pounds
- Backed by a full 2-year warranty
- Dual tanks – Allows you to store two different types of detergent. Switch with a simple turn of the dial. It means you’ll never have to empty and wash out a tank to switch jobs
- Five quick and easy connect spray tips – From a punishing pinpoint precision clean to a powerful band spray. With 0º, 15º, 25º, 40º, and soap nozzles, you can attack everything from light to heavy-duty cleaning tasks
- Total Stop System (TSS) – When you’re not engaging the trigger, the pump is automatically shut off, saving energy and prolonging the life of the pump
- PSI 2030, GPM 1.76
- Motor – 14.5 Amp/1800 Watt
- 34-inch extension spray wand, a 20-foot high-pressure hose, and a 35-foot power cord. Demolish every bit of dirt. Reach high and reach low.
- Easy to assemble
Sun Joe – Best Value Pressure Washer
Sun Joe
The best pressure washer for your Car or Truck? Check out the top 5 here.
Best Onboard Accessories: PaxCess 3000 PSI Max Power Pressure Washer
- 2150 PSI pressure spray
- Four spray nozzles (0°, 15°, 25°, 40°)
- Onboard Detergent tank
- Onboard Hose Reel
- Extremely easy on your budget for this Power
- 1.8 GPM flow rate
- 26’ power cord
- They have had plastic parts – The manufacturer recently upgraded to Metal Wand and Connectors.
If you are looking for high psi in a complete pressure washer package for under $150, then you are probably looking for this pressure washer From Pax cess.
With this machine, you’ll get four different spray nozzles that offer plenty of versatility for your job.
Pax-Cess – Best Pressure Washer Onboard Accessories
PaxCess
If you need high power output but aren’t willing to pay premium prices, this pressure washer has your name all over it. Everybody was astonished at how well it cleans, especially since it is so inexpensive, as demonstrated by some of the best reviews on Amazon.
Tips: Cleaning Driveway With Pressure Washer:
Here are a few suggestions to safely pressure wash your driveway or other concrete surfaces. You can also apply these concrete driveway cleaning tips on just about any driveway surface you choose to pressure wash, so here we go:
1) Should I use the Standard Green Tip for pressure washing?
The red and yellow tips (0 and 5 degrees) concentrate all the water pressure into a small area. Use extreme caution with Red and Yellow pressure washer tips, as they can blast loose pieces off and possibly etch the concrete.
The white and the black tips (25 and 40 degrees) are broader, fan out more, and are designed for washing cars and siding or wood decks, and should be considered best for preventing damage to concrete.
2) What is the Maximum Pressure Setting Should I Use?
The maximum pressure washer you should use around the home should be between 3,000 and 3,500 PSI. Anything more powerful is rarely needed for household maintenance.
Small electric pressure washers may not be a good option for cleaning hard surfaces like concrete if they don’t have enough PSI to tackle those greasy stains.
3) Should You Seal Concrete Driveway After Pressure Washing?
After the driveway has been allowed to dry for at least 2 days minimum, It is recommended you seal the concrete. This will keep dirt and stains from penetrating your concrete’s open pores.
This will keep your concrete cleaner longer and make cleaning easier when you pressure wash it. The dirt and stains will stay on the surface, making them easier to remove.
4) Is a Pressure Washer The Best Way To Clean Vinyl Siding?
If you have minimal dirt build-up, a pressure washer is the quickest way to clean vinyl siding. But generally, the results are Not Permanent.
If you are seeing heavy amounts of “mold or mildew,” we highly recommend using an excellent spray-on vinyl siding cleaner instead.
With vinyl siding cleaners, spray the solution with a bug sprayer, then walk away. Some siding cleaners eliminate mold within minutes, others are more gradual, but within 1-2 weeks, the mold and mildew will disappear – usually for good.
5) How to Not Damage Concrete with Pressure Washers
Here are some tips on how to make sure not to damage your concrete driveway with a pressure washer:
- Use the right pressure. A pressure washer can have a range of PSI (pounds per square inch), and you’ll need to use a lower PSI for concrete than for other surfaces. A good rule of thumb is to use a pressure washer with a PSI of 2,000 to 3,000 for concrete.
- Use the right nozzle. The nozzle on your pressure washer will determine the width and intensity of the spray. You’ll want to use a wide-angle nozzle with a 25-degree spray pattern for concrete.
- Keep the nozzle moving. Don’t hold the nozzle in one spot for too long, as this can cause the concrete to etch. Instead, keep the nozzle moving in a sweeping motion.
- Start at a low PSI and increase it as needed. It’s better to start with a low PSI and increase it if needed rather than starting with a high PSI and damaging the concrete.
- Test the pressure in an inconspicuous area. Before you start pressure washing your entire driveway, test the pressure in an inconspicuous area to ensure it’s not too high.
- Rinse thoroughly. After you’re finished pressure washing, be sure to rinse the concrete thoroughly with clean water. This will help remove any dirt or debris the pressure washer may have dislodged.
Additional Safety Tips While Using Pressure Washer:
- Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris.
- Don’t pressure wash on a hot, sunny day; the concrete could dry too quickly and crack.
- If your concrete is in poor condition, you may want to hire a professional pressure washer.
In the Market for a New Cordless Leaf Blower? Check out the Top 5 Best in Our Leaf Blower Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the Terminology Used For Pressure Washers?
A: These are Terms used to describe Pressure Washers:
- PSI = Pounds Per Square Inch
- GPM = Gallons Per Minute
- CPU = Cleaning Power Units
Q: How Long Do Pressure Washer Pumps Last?
A: Typically, a gas pressure washer pump will last between 300 – 3000 hours, depending on the quality of the unit.
Generally, electric pressure washer pumps will last longer than their gas alternative as there are no combustible parts to wear out.
Q: How Much PSI Do You Need to Clean Concrete?
A: The recommended Minimum PSI for cleaning concrete is 2200 PSI; however, 3,000 PSI will get the job done more quickly and effectively if you can afford the upgrade.
Q: Can I damage my Concrete with a Pressure Washer?
A: You can damage your concrete driveway or patio by pressure washing. Most believe that concrete is solid – therefore indestructible, but using a pressure washer with the incorrect tip, holding it too close to the concrete, using too high a pressure, or a combination of all three, can etch and damage the concrete surfaces.
Q: How Do You Get Rid of Lines In Concrete?
A: One common complaint is how to remove the lines of stains left on the concrete after pressure washing. Those lines are usually caused because you get tired and don’t take as much time as you started.
The best solution to this problem is to use a turbo nozzle that rotates the water, cleans a bigger area, and does not leave lines.
We also recommend a Turbo nozzle for cleaning Vinyl siding because a high-Pressure Washer can slice through Vinyl siding if the wrong tip is used.
Q: Should I Use Detergent To Clean Concrete Driveway?
A: If you have a lot of greasy stains, mold, and mildew, we recommend using a detergent or soap before you pressure wash. These liquid cleaners will loosen the dirt from the open pores in the concrete and give you a more effective removal of stains and dirt.
Mold, mildew, rust, and oil stains need special treatment and cleaners. Rust is a chemical stain. But oil penetrates the pores of the concrete and is difficult to remove. Pressure washing will remove the surface oil allowing the oil inside to resurface, and the stain can return.
Pressure washer driveway cleaner works like detergent for your clothes in your washing machine. Usually, products such as all-purpose cleaners such as SealGreen Driveway and Garage Cleaner will handle this job quickly.
Here’s a great video on How to clean your concrete from the fine people at SealGreen.
Mold, mildew, rust, and oil stains need special treatment and cleaners. Rust is a chemical stain.
But oil penetrates the pores of the concrete and is difficult to remove. Pressure washing will remove the surface oil allowing the oil inside to resurface, and the stain can return.
Before you use a pressure washer and detergent cleaner, Pre-soak the concrete with your garden hose, add soap, wait 10-15 minutes, then use the pressure washer to finish up.
Q: Can You Remove Driveway Sealer With a Pressure Washer?
A: Removing concrete sealers or coatings with a pressure washer is possible. This often occurs due to an over-concentration of water pressure in small areas, which can also etch the concrete.
Most of the resistance and strength of concrete is located in the top layer. Once that layer has been removed, the concrete is susceptible to deterioration.
Conclusion
There are many benefits of owning a pressure washer. Not only does it keep your property and possessions clean and in good condition, but it also protects against harmful bacteria that can build up.
Regular pressure washings can prevent mildew and grime and reduce your property’s premature aging.
You’ll also save many hours trying to do it all by hand, only to be disappointed with the results. Nothing is more satisfying than seeing the pressure washer do all the hard work for you!
We’ve reviewed Five great pressure washers today, and the one you decide to buy will depend on your budget and needs and how often you’ll be using it.
Our number one pick is the Simpson Mega-Shot gas-powered Pressure Washer with its Honda 190CC engine and 3200 PSI – this thing is a beast.
Our runner-up, the Briggs & Stratton S2200 Pressure Washer, is a little more “tame” with 2200 PSI but still offers 1.2 GPM, 25’ High-Pressure Hose, Turbo Nozzle, and Detergent Foamer.
However, if you’re looking for the best value, check out Sun Joe’s SPX3000, one of the best all-around pressure washers for light-duty homeowner tasks. Four easy-to-attach spray tips can tackle any cleaning job, whether light or tough.
Thanks for visiting BestHomeGear, and don’t forget to leave us a comment or suggestion below!
Additional Reading
How do you safely use a pressure washer? – CDC.gov
The Best Wood Chipper You Can Buy – Besthomegear.com
Do you want to use your pressure washer most efficiently? – BriggsandStratton.com
Read about our favorite pressure washer under $300 – BesthomeGear.com
