Dock and Driveway Power Wash in Atlantic Beach, NC
Years of salt, sun and grime were no match for the crew. We power washed the dock and driveway and brought the wood and concrete back to a fresh, like new look ready for summer.
About this project
Docks on the sound collect salt film and algae fast, and the boards get slick. Concrete driveways pick up stains and dark buildup from the same weather.
Wood and concrete don't get washed the same way. Concrete can handle a lot of pressure. Dock boards can't. The result is clean boards that are safer to walk on and a driveway that looks close to new.
Project photos
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Learn more about power washing, dock staining, or our work in Atlantic Beach.
The challenge
Docks on the sound take a beating. Salt spray dries on the boards, algae grows in the damp spots, and over time the wood turns gray and slick. The driveway had its own problem, dark buildup and stains from the same weather.
The catch is that wood and concrete need very different treatment. Concrete can take a lot of pressure. Dock boards can't. Too much pressure on soft wood raises the grain and leaves the boards fuzzy and rough, which makes them break down faster.
How we cleaned it
- Look it over. We checked the dock boards, rails and the driveway before deciding how to clean each one.
- Wash the dock. Lower pressure and the right approach for wood, to lift salt and algae without damaging the boards.
- Clean the driveway. Higher pressure for the concrete to pull out stains and dark buildup.
- Rinse and check. A final rinse and a walk down the dock to make sure nothing was missed.
What comes next for the dock
A clean dock looks great, and it's also the perfect time to protect it. Once the wood is clean and dry, a good stain or sealer slows down the next round of graying and helps the boards shed water.
If you're washing your dock this year, ask us about staining it too. Doing both back to back means the wood gets protected while it's at its best.
Questions about dock and driveway washing
How often should a dock be washed?
At least once a year. Docks on the sound collect salt and algae fast, and slick boards are a safety issue, not just a looks issue.
Will power washing damage my dock?
It can if the pressure is wrong. We use a gentler approach on wood than we do on concrete so the boards come out clean, not chewed up.
Should I stain my dock after washing it?
If the water soaks into the boards instead of beading up, yes. Washing restores the look, and stain is what protects the wood.
Can you wash my house at the same time?
Yes. Siding, decks, docks, driveways and patios can all be done in the same visit.
Do I need to be home?
No. As long as we can reach an outside spigot and the areas being cleaned, we can do the work while you're away.
Need your dock or driveway cleaned?
Tell us what needs washing and we'll get you a free quote.
Cook’s Coastal Painting (CCP)
Proudly serving Carteret County & surrounding areas with over 20 years of experience. From painting to power washing, staining, and coatings we deliver quality work you can trust, every time.
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