Maintaining your parking garage is vital to ensuring a safe and inviting environment for your customers and visitors. Regular cleanings not only improve aesthetic appeal but can also help increase the longevity of fixtures such as paint, lighting systems, floors, repairs, and more. In this post, we will outline 6 steps to proper parking garage cleaning to maximize efficiency while maintaining quality. Read on to ensure you are doing everything necessary when it comes time for that inevitable cleaning cycle!

Conduct Regular Visual Lot Inspection of Parking Garages

Regular visual inspection of a parking garage is crucial in identifying areas that require immediate attention. During a visual inspection, cleaners should look for oil stains, graffiti, or any other foreign substances that need removal. In addition to identifying visible stains, cleaning personnel should also look out for cracks and potholes in the pavement. These damaged areas, if not addressed, may soon deteriorate and lead to expensive repair costs. Conducting regular visual inspections helps prevent such costly repairs, keeping the parking garage functionally attractive and safe.

Pressure Wash the Surface

Pressure washing is a crucial step in cleaning a parking garage surface. Pressure washing tools that deliver at least 2500 psi and 3-4 GPM are necessary to thoroughly clean the surface. The high pressure and water flow help remove dirt, debris, and other unwanted substances that have settled on the surface. This step can also uncover hidden stains or pollutants that have penetrated the surface, making them easier to identify and treat. Pressure washing is not just a cosmetic treatment but also prolongs the pavement’s life by preventing mold or mildew growth, which can lead to costly repairs. Regular pressure washing is a must for effective and efficient parking garage cleaning. Consult with a leading power washing company in Northern Virginia, discuss your requirements and clean your garage. In addition to pressure washing, industrial surface cleaning is the most common method of cleaning parking garage. 

Remove Trash, Dirt, and Other Debris

Parking lots are often littered with trash, dirt, and other debris. It is essential to remove them properly to ensure a clean and safe environment for the users. The first step is to remove large items such as discarded packaging, broken glass, and other debris to prevent accidents. Then, use a powerful vacuum to suck up the loose dirt and dust. For removing hard-to-reach debris, specialized equipment such as high-pressure air blowers or power scrubbers might be necessary. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas such as corners, under parked cars, and elevator alcoves, where dirt and debris tend to accumulate. Regularly removing trash, dirt, and debris also helps to extend the lifespan of the flooring and prevent slip-and-fall accidents. You can also connect with a company for driveway cleaning in Northern Virginia to keep the parking lot area clean.

Remove Any Surface Stains

Surface stains are common in commercial parking garages caused by vehicle fluids, oil spills, and other substances. Stains look unsightly and can weaken the surface of the concrete or asphalt. To remove surface stains, use a hot water pressure washer with a specialized detergent designed for concrete or asphalt. Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. A combination of scrubbing and pressure washing might be necessary for tough stains. If the stains are stubborn and cannot be removed, resealing or resurfacing might be required. Regular parking lot cleaning helps to prevent stains and prolong the lifespan of the flooring.

Protect Your Parking Lot with Cracks:

One crucial step in properly cleaning a parking garage is to address any cracks or damage present in the structure. Doing so ensures that water and debris won’t seep in, causing further damage to the concrete. Properly sealing these cracks and joints with a sealant will help prevent water damage and improve the longevity of the garage. Ignoring these issues may lead to costly repairs down the road and is ultimately avoidable. By addressing these issues early on, the structure will remain in peak condition, withstanding the elements for years to come.

Rinse/Repeat Method:

The rinse/repeat method of cleaning a parking garage is vital to ensure the cleanliness of the structure. It involves rinsing and removing debris from the surface before using a high-pressure washer to scrape dirt and grime off the concrete. This process should be repeated several times to ensure that all the debris and dirt have been removed. One common mistake made is solely relying on a pressure washer or neglecting prior rinsing. This could lead to grime buildup and pose potential safety hazards such as slips and falls. By implementing the rinse/repeat method, the parking garage will remain safe for use and look brand new for years to come.

Conclusion

With the right supplies, a few well-thought-out steps, and some extra care, proper parking garage cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. Keeping these garages clean prevents damage and creates a safe environment for everyone. Although the task can take time, it is ultimately worth it in terms of saving money over time or working towards a goal to maintain sanitary conditions in these areas. Proper parking garage cleaning should happen regularly, usually every six months or so. By following the steps listed above, you can ensure your garages stay clean and will help your business run smoother than ever before!