The secret to driveway cleaning for brick is using the right method, not the most pressure. In New York City, NY, we match the cleaner and pressure to the surface so it comes out clean without damage. On brick, the method we use is low-pressure wash.
The right method for the job
Cleaning solution: Soft wash for algae and mildew; a masonry-specific cleaner for efflorescence and mortar haze.
Cleaning brick safely
Brick is tough, but the mortar joints are softer than the brick itself, and older soft-fired brick can pit. Organic growth comes off with a soft wash; mineral deposits such as efflorescence need a masonry-safe cleaner instead of more pressure.
Avoid: Zero-degree tips and close-range blasting that erode mortar joints, and strong acids on brick that hasn't been pre-wet.
How often: Every 2-3 years for most homes.
When to book driveway cleaning for brick
- 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
Safe steps for homeowners
- 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.
What can go wrong with DIY pressure washing
- 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
Our process for driveway cleaning for brick
- 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 brick 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 brick
- Pressure Washing for Brick
- Soft Washing for Brick
- House Washing for Brick
- Sidewalk & Walkway Cleaning for Brick
- Patio Cleaning for Brick
- Paver Cleaning & Sealing for Brick
- Rust Stain Removal for Brick
- Graffiti Removal for Brick
- Efflorescence Removal for Brick
- Exterior Mold & Mildew Removal for Brick
- Pre-Paint Washing for Brick
- Commercial Pressure Washing for Brick
- HOA & Apartment Pressure Washing for Brick
Serving New York City, NY and nearby towns
In New York, concrete has to deal with summer mildew and winter salt and freeze-thaw cycles. Annual cleaning and a sealer every few years help it last.
Crews serve all of New York City (ZIP codes 10004, 10008 and 10043), plus Hoboken, NJ (2.5 mi), Jersey City, NJ (3.9 mi), Weehawken, NJ (3.9 mi) and Union City, NJ (4.6 mi). Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote in New York City.
Driveway Cleaning for Brick: frequently asked questions
How much does driveway cleaning for brick cost in New York City, NY?
Driveway Cleaning for Brick 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 brick?
For brick: usually 500-1,500 PSI with a wide fan tip, held well back from the mortar. What we avoid: zero-degree tips and close-range blasting that erode mortar joints, and strong acids on brick that hasn't been pre-wet. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is driveway cleaning for brick 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 brick?
Every 2-3 years for most homes. 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.