Cleaning vs. Sealing an Exposed-Aggregate Driveway
Cleaning and sealing are two different jobs. Many aggregate driveways only need the first; others look dull until they get both.
What cleaning does
Cleaning removes dirt, algae, tire marks and many stains. It restores the surface but doesn't change its color or sheen.
What sealing adds
A sealer can deepen the stone color and help the surface shed water and stains. It has to go on a clean, dry surface, and it wears over time.
If it's been sealed before
Old sealer that's peeling or cloudy may need to come off before a new coat. Tell your contractor what was used and when, if you know.
Choosing
If you're happy with the look after cleaning, you can stop there. If you want the 'wet look' back or stains keep setting in, sealing is worth quoting.
What to avoid
- Sealing over dirt or a damp surface
- Stacking new sealer over peeling old sealer
- Using a product not meant for exterior concrete
When to call a professional
Ask for cleaning and sealing as separate lines — you can approve cleaning alone. See our concrete & aggregate sealing service.
What customers say
"I used First Class Pressure Cleaning to seal my aggregate driveway and they did a fantastic job. It was in rough shape as we had never sealed it before. Lots of salt damage as well from trying to de-ice the last winter storm. It looks so much better now. They even came back the next day for touch-ups on some areas where the winter salts had worn through to the concrete. Very happy with this company and the work they’ve done!"
Dan · Google Review
"Great job done by Wally & crew for 1st Class Power wash. Front & Back porches along with large patio and lots of stairs. Furniture and planters moved and replaced. Sealant added to protect patio. Will use again!"
Judy B. · Google Review
"Highly recommend! Andrew and his team were great at communicating and worked around rainy weather days to clean and seal our stamped concrete around the pool to ensure the product would successfully seal it. They were on time, friendly, and their communication throughout the process was amazing!"
Andrea H. · Google Review
96 Google reviews from homeowners and businesses across Middle Tennessee. Read them all on Google.
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Related guides
- What to Tell a Contractor About New Concrete or Builder Coatings
- What Photos to Send for a House, Driveway and Patio Quote
- What an Existing Patio Sealer Changes About Your Quote
- Preparing an Outdoor-Surface Quote for a Gated Neighborhood
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