Looking for pressure washing for asphalt in Iowa? We look at the surface first, choose the right method and pressure for it, and give you a price before any work starts. With asphalt, the right approach is low-to-moderate pressure wash.
The right method for the job
Cleaning solution: An asphalt-safe degreaser; avoid solvent-based products.
Caring for asphalt
Asphalt is softer than concrete and is held together by its binder, so it is washed at lower pressure. Washing removes dirt and some oil staining before sealcoating, but old, absorbed oil stains rarely disappear completely.
Avoid: High pressure and harsh solvents that loosen the aggregate and break down the binder.
How often: Before sealcoating, typically every 2-3 years.
Is it time for pressure washing for asphalt?
- Driveway or walkways look dark, gray or streaky
- Green or black growth in shaded areas and along edges
- Slippery surfaces after rain
- Oil, rust or tire marks you can't scrub out
- You're getting ready to sell, seal or paint
Why it gets dirty
- Dirt and pollen that settle into the pores of concrete
- Mold, mildew and algae in damp, shaded spots
- Oil and fluid drips from vehicles
- Rust from sprinklers, furniture and fertilizer
- Tire marks and general foot traffic
What you can do yourself
- Sweep off leaves and loose debris so they don't stain
- Blot fresh oil drips with cat litter or an absorbent right away
- Point sprinklers away from walls and walkways to cut down on rust and hard-water stains
- Rinse pollen off with a garden hose during heavy pollen season
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Etched lines and 'zebra stripes' from holding a narrow tip too close
- Water forced into window frames, door sills and siding laps
- Damaged plants and lawns from chemical runoff
- Injuries: a zero-degree tip can cut skin, and wet surfaces are slippery
Our process for pressure washing for asphalt
- Walk the property and note surfaces, stains and anything fragile
- Protect plants, outlets, lights and doors, and move small items
- Pre-treat organic growth and degrease oil spots
- Clean with the right pressure and a surface cleaner for even results
- Rinse, post-treat to slow regrowth, and walk the job with you
Typical pressure washing for asphalt prices
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 asphalt
Local pressure washing for asphalt for Iowa
In Iowa, 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.
We cover 164 cities and towns across Iowa. Find pressure washing for asphalt in your city:
- Des Moines
- Cedar Rapids
- Davenport
- Sioux City
- Iowa City
- Waterloo
- Ames
- West Des Moines
- Council Bluffs
- Dubuque
- Ankeny
- Urbandale
Pressure Washing for Asphalt: frequently asked questions
How much does pressure washing for asphalt cost in Iowa?
Pressure Washing for Asphalt typically costs $150-$600 for a typical home's driveway, walkways and patio, and usually takes 1-4 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 pressure washing for asphalt?
For asphalt: usually 1,500-2,500 PSI; hot water helps with oil. What we avoid: high pressure and harsh solvents that loosen the aggregate and break down the binder. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is pressure washing for asphalt 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 pressure washing for asphalt?
Before sealcoating, typically 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.