Jet Blast Inc. avoids these concrete water blasting mistakes!
Concrete is one of the most durable materials used in industrial, municipal, and commercial settings, but even concrete has its limits. Over time, heavy vehicle traffic, exposure to the elements, and chemical spills can wear down even the toughest surfaces. That’s why water blasting (or pressure washing) is a common and effective method for maintaining and restoring concrete structures such as sidewalks, parking decks, loading bays, and production floors.
However, when performed incorrectly, concrete water blasting can do more harm than good. At Jet Blast, we’ve seen firsthand how improper pressure washing techniques can damage concrete, waste time, and increase maintenance costs. Here’s what to watch out for when maintaining your property with water blasting.
Using Too Much Pressure
A standard garden hose delivers around 40 PSI (pounds per square inch) of water pressure, while a commercial-grade pressure washer can deliver 30 to 80 times that force. When applied incorrectly, this intense pressure can etch or pit the surface of concrete, leaving it rough, uneven, and vulnerable to cracking.
If your concrete appears streaked or etched after cleaning, you may have applied too much pressure or used the wrong nozzle. Even worse, high-pressure blasting can strip away the protective surface layer (cement paste), exposing the aggregate beneath and leading to faster deterioration.
The best solution? Trust experienced professionals who understand how to match the right level of pressure and nozzle type to each surface.
Power Washing New Concrete Too Soon
Concrete takes time to fully cure and harden. In fact, it can take up to a year for new concrete to bond properly and achieve full strength. Applying high-pressure water blasting before that time can weaken the surface, cause premature cracking, or disrupt the curing process entirely.
If you need to clean newly installed concrete, stick to low-pressure methods—such as using a mix of water and mild detergent with gentle scrubbing—until the concrete has had adequate time to cure.
Overwashing or Washing Too Frequently
More isn’t always better. Many property owners assume that frequent concrete water blasting keeps surfaces in top condition, but over-washing can actually wear concrete down. For most commercial and industrial sites, annual cleaning is sufficient to maintain appearance and performance.
Overusing high-pressure washing—such as doing it monthly or even weekly—can slowly erode the surface, leading to pitting and a shorter service life. Instead, plan scheduled maintenance with professionals who use the right balance of pressure and technique for each type of surface.
Overlooking Safety and Technique
Improper use of high-pressure equipment doesn’t just risk surface damage, it’s also a serious safety hazard. Water blasting at high pressures can throw debris at high speed, cause loss of footing, or result in injuries if the operator is untrained or unprotected.
Before performing any concrete water blasting, ensure:
- The area is clear of personnel and sensitive equipment.
- Operators are wearing protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and steel-toed boots.
- The machine is properly calibrated and maintained.
Contact Jet Blast today to learn more about our professional concrete water blasting services and avoid costly concrete cleaning mistakes before they happen.
Contact Jet Blast Inc. Today!
Jet Blast® Industrial Services strives every day in an effort to provide our customers with the best service and equipment possible. Providing a safe and stable workplace has allowed us to keep a team of quality people, with most having a tenure of 15 – 25 years with Jet Blast®. With all that experience under one roof, we have been able to provide reliable 24-hour service since 1979. I believe this helps to set us apart from the competition.
Compare us! Let us make your job easier. If you’re located in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Northern Virginia, or Washington, D.C., contact us by email at [email protected], call us at 410-636-0730, or fax us at 410-789-3907, and don’t forget to keep in touch with us on Facebook!