How long does it take to pressure wash a driveway?

An average UK driveway of 30-50 m² takes 3-6 hours to pressure wash thoroughly. Block paving takes the longest (around 5 m²/hr) due to the joints trapping dirt. Concrete and tarmac can be cleaned faster at 7-8 m²/hr. Using a rotary surface cleaner attachment can increase speed by 30-50%.

Should I seal a driveway after pressure washing?

Yes, sealing after cleaning is highly recommended, especially for block paving and imprinted concrete. Sealer protects against weed growth, ant invasion, oil stains, and colour fading. It also helps prevent the surface from getting dirty as quickly. Allow the driveway to dry fully (24-48 hours) before sealing.

How much sealant does a driveway need?

Most driveway sealants cover 5-8 m² per litre. We estimate 0.15 litres per m² as an average. Block paving absorbs more sealer than smooth surfaces. Always apply two thin coats rather than one thick coat for best results and even coverage.

Do I need to re-sand block paving after pressure washing?

Yes, pressure washing block paving removes the kiln-dried sand from the joints. After cleaning and before sealing, brush kiln-dried sand into all joints using a stiff broom. This prevents weeds growing through and keeps the blocks stable. Allow 24 hours for the sand to settle before sealing.

CleanCalcs

Driveway Cleaning Calculator

Estimate time and resources for driveway cleaning by area and surface type.

Driveway Length

Driveway Width

Surface Type

Flow Rate

Pressure washer flow rate

Seal after cleaning

Sealing recommended for block paving

How We Calculate This

How the calculation works

Cleaning time is calculated from the driveway area and coverage rate for the surface type.

Coverage rates (m² per hour)

Concrete: 7 m²/hr
Block paving: 5 m²/hr
Tarmac: 8 m²/hr
Resin-bound: 10 m²/hr
Imprinted concrete: 6 m²/hr

Formulae

Area = length × width

Time = area ÷ coverage rate

Water = time × flow rate × 60

Sealant = area × 0.15 L/m²

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities and timings for your specific situation.