Here at The Bin Spa & Power Washing, we (almost) always use sodium hypochlorite (SH) to pre-treat surfaces before washing them. SH is a chlorinated bleach, often the same exact liquid chlorine you would put into your pool. We want you to understand why we use this chemical and why it is so effective.

Using a sodium hypochlorite (SH) or bleach solution as a pre-treatment on a concrete driveway before power washing can be beneficial for several reasons:

1. Mold and Mildew Removal: Surfaces, such as concrete driveways are susceptible to the growth of mold, mildew, algae, and other organic contaminants, especially in damp or shaded areas. Treating the surface with a bleach solution helps kill and remove these growths, making the power washing process more effective.

2. Stain Removal: Bleach is effective in breaking down and removing various stains on concrete, such as oil, grease, rust, and other organic or mineral-based stains. Pre-treating with bleach can help lift and loosen these stains before power washing.

3. Surface Sterilization: Sodium hypochlorite is a powerful disinfectant, and treating the concrete surface with it helps sterilize the area, killing bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present. This is particularly important for areas that may be prone to biological growth.

4. Efficient Cleaning: Pre-treating with a bleach solution can make power washing more efficient. It helps break down and loosen dirt, grime, and contaminants, making it easier for the pressure washer to remove them during the cleaning process.

5. Prevention of Regrowth: By eliminating mold, mildew, and algae during the pre-treatment, you can help prevent their rapid regrowth after power washing. This can result in a cleaner and longer-lasting appearance for your concrete driveway.

6. Improved Aesthetics: The pre-treatment process can enhance the overall visual appeal of the concrete or other surface by removing unsightly stains and discolorations. This is particularly important for driveways and siding where appearance is a key consideration.

When using a bleach solution for pre-treatment, it's essential to follow safety guidelines, wear protective gear, and ensure proper dilution ratios to avoid damage to surrounding vegetation or adverse effects on the concrete. Additionally, thoroughly rinse the treated surface after power washing to remove any remaining bleach residue. You can generally expect the area to have a chlorine smell for a 1-3 hours after cleaning and will then go away.