If you’ve ever walked down your driveway or patio and spotted little saplings or stubborn weeds sprouting from cracks, you know how frustrating they can be. 😤 They seem to pop up overnight, and pulling them out often feels like a never-ending task.
So you might be wondering: Can I just blast them out with a pressure washer? The short answer is yes, but there’s a little more to it if you want to do it effectively — and prevent them from coming right back.
Let’s take a closer look at how to tackle weeds and small saplings with a pressure washer the right way.
🌿 Pressure Washing: A Useful First Step
Pressure washing can be a great method to remove surface-level growth, dislodge dirt, and flush out roots from cracks in:
- Driveways
- Sidewalks
- Pavers
- Concrete patios
- Brick paths
The high-pressure stream dislodges small weeds and root systems, clears away loose dirt, and opens the surface for further treatment. For shallow-rooted weeds, it may even eliminate them entirely.
🚫 But Here’s the Catch…
While pressure washing may remove visible weeds and even tear up roots, it doesn’t always kill them. Some aggressive varieties — like crabgrass, dandelions, or woody saplings — can regenerate from small root fragments that remain lodged in the crack.
Also, if the root system has grown deep or underneath the slab, pressure washing won’t reach it.
✅ Best Practices for Using a Pressure Washer on Weeds
If you’re going to use a pressure washer to clean weeds or saplings, follow these steps for best results:
1. Use a Turbo or 15° Nozzle for Cracks
A 15° nozzle is powerful enough to dislodge debris in tight joints.
A rotating turbo nozzle adds an extra punch by spinning in a cone pattern — great for cleaning crevices.
⚠️ Keep the spray 3–6 inches from the surface to avoid chipping concrete or pavers.
2. Angle the Spray Into the Cracks
Approach the crack from the side and angle the wand downward to penetrate under the weed. This loosens roots and pulls out more material.
3. Wear Eye Protection and Boots 👀🥾
When blasting at close range, flying debris and mud are real hazards. Protect yourself and stay stable while working.
4. Work in Sections
Target small areas one at a time for maximum precision and effectiveness. Going too fast will only trim the tops of the weeds.
🔁 Follow Up to Prevent Regrowth
Here’s where most people drop the ball — they don’t follow up after pressure washing, and the weeds grow right back.
To truly solve the problem:
✅ Apply a Weed Killer
Use a post-emergent herbicide after washing to kill any remaining root systems. For a more natural approach, try:
- Vinegar with a splash of dish soap
- Boiling water
- Salt (use sparingly as it can harm surrounding grass)
✅ Fill the Cracks with Jointing Sand or Sealant
Once the area is dry, refill open cracks with:
- Polymeric sand for pavers
- Concrete crack filler for driveways
- Sealants or caulk to block re-entry
This prevents weeds from taking hold again and improves appearance.
✅ Consider a Crack Cleaning Attachment
For routine maintenance, use a pressure washer crack cleaner — a narrow attachment that makes it easier to blast weeds out of joints without damaging the surrounding surface.
🚫 When Not to Use Pressure Washing
Avoid using a pressure washer for weed removal if:
- The surface is old or already cracked
- There are signs of loose bricks or unsealed mortar
- You’re dealing with delicate flagstone or cobblestone
In those cases, manual removal followed by herbicide is safer.
🧼 Final Thoughts
Pressure washing is an effective first line of attack against weeds and small saplings growing in cracks — especially when paired with follow-up treatments like herbicides and sealants. 💪
While it may not completely kill every root system, it clears the way for better long-term control and a cleaner, more polished look.
So the next time you see a sprout in the pavement, grab that wand, and give it the blast it deserves — just remember to follow through. 🚿🌱🧱
