Post-Construction Pressure Washing for Tract and Semi-Custom Homes Pressure Washing

Ron Musgraves

Ron Musgraves

Exterior Restoration Specialist
Staff member

Post-Construction Pressure Washing for Tract and Semi-Custom Homes​


Protecting New Concrete Surfaces with Proper Techniques​


When construction ends, pressure washing is an essential final step to prepare homes for inspection and occupancy. However, tract homes and semi-custom homes have newly poured surfaces that require special care during cleaning to avoid permanent damage.


Understanding the phases of construction, the types of concrete used, and the correct cleaning methods is critical to preserving these new builds.



Why New Concrete Needs Special Attention​


Concrete in residential construction is poured in separate phases, each with different strengths:


  • Foundations and Garage Slabs are typically poured first using high-strength concrete (3000–4000 PSI) and are tested for slump and quality.
  • Driveways may be poured separately and can vary in strength, often around 3000 PSI.
  • Decorative Flatwork like patios, sidewalks, and driveway ribbons are often poured later by landscapers, typically with lower PSI concrete (2500–3000 PSI) and without formal testing.

Because different areas have different strengths and curing timelines, testing before washing is essential to prevent etching or damaging the surface.



Testing and Pressure Adjustment​


Before starting any pressure washing:


  • Test each area separately — foundation, driveway, decorative concrete.
  • Use a variable pressure wand or a surface cleaner with adjustable bar height to control the pressure safely.
  • Always start at low pressure and adjust carefully as needed.

Incorrect settings or assumptions about surface strength can lead to costly surface damage.



Best Practices for Common Post-Construction Cleanup Challenges​


1. Removing Paint Overspray from Garage Floors​


Garage floors often have water-based paint overspray because painters tend to focus less on protecting these areas, expecting them to remain unfinished.


Safe removal method:


  • Lightly wet the affected area.
  • Sprinkle baking soda over the overspray.
  • Allow it to sit briefly.
  • Gently scrub or rinse at low pressure.

Note: This method only works for interior water-based (latex) paints and is not effective for oil-based or exterior paints.
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2. Removing Mortar Tags, Drywall Mud, and Thinset​


Splatter from stucco, drywall mud, and tile thinset often ends up on driveways, patios, and garages.


Safe removal method:


  • Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the hardened residue.
  • The material usually pops off cleanly without high pressure or chemicals.
  • Sweep up the debris carefully.

This method protects delicate, uncured concrete from unnecessary gouging or surface scarring.



Important Note: Proper Scraper Selection​


If scraping becomes necessary:


  • Only use nylon or brass scrapers or chisels.
  • Avoid steel or hardened metal tools.

Why:


  • Steel scrapers can scratch or gouge fresh concrete.
  • Steel residue left behind may rust, creating permanent rust stains on driveways or patios.

Choosing the right scraper material helps maintain the integrity and appearance of the surface.



Typical Pricing for Post-Construction Washing​


Post-construction washing for new builds is often priced based on project size and home type:


  • Tract Housing Developments:
    • Approximately $325 per home, typically under agreements involving at least 200 homes.
  • Semi-Custom Homes:
    • Range between $480 and $725 per home, depending on size, driveway complexity, and garage space (often accommodating 3 to 6 vehicles).

Pricing reflects the time, surface area, and care needed for larger, more detailed homes.



Conclusion​


Post-construction pressure washing for new homes requires a careful, tested approach to preserve surfaces, meet builder expectations, and prepare properties for final delivery.


Key points to ensure success:


  • Always test new surfaces before washing.
  • Use variable pressure equipment and adjustable surface cleaners.
  • Apply low pressure first, especially on decorative concrete.
  • Use rubber mallets or nylon/brass scrapers for removing construction debris without damaging surfaces.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals unless absolutely necessary, relying on gentle, proven methods.

Knowledgeable, cautious cleaning ensures that freshly built homes look their best without risking permanent damage.



Educational Resources​



 
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