Parkades work hard every day. Whether it’s a busy commercial building, a residential complex, or a public facility, parkades see a lot of traffic and a lot of mess. Dirt, oil, tire marks, chewing gum, spills, and even garbage can build up fast. If left uncleaned, that mess doesn’t just look bad, it can cause damage, health and safety issues, and complaints from tenants or visitors.

That’s why pressure washing is so important. But how often should you do it?

Let’s break it down.

Why Parkade Cleaning Matters?

Your parking lot is often the first part of your building that people see. When it looks dirty or smells bad, it sets the wrong tone. But beyond appearance, unwashed parkades can be unsafe and expensive to fix if ignored for too long.

Here’s what regular pressure washing can help with:

• Removes oil, grease, and dirt that can eat away at the concrete
• Prevents slips and falls caused by buildup and slick surfaces
• Improves air quality in enclosed parkades
• Stops stains from becoming permanent
• Protects paint lines and surface coatings
• Makes your building look more professional and cared-for

If you manage a commercial or multi-unit building, regular maintenance is not just smart, it’s expected.

So, How Often Should You Pressure Wash?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some general guidelines based on property type and use:

1. High-Traffic Parkades (Commercial or Public)

If your parkade sees a lot of vehicles daily, like office buildings, shopping centers, or public lots, it should be pressure washed at least 3 to 4 times a year. More traffic means more dirt, oil, and wear.

2. Residential or Strata Parkades

For condos, apartments, and other residential buildings, twice a year is a good starting point. Spring and fall cleanings work well to wash away winter salt and summer grime.

3. Underground or Enclosed Parkades

These tend to collect more fumes, dust, and oil. Ventilation is limited, so grime lingers longer. Two to four times per year is ideal to keep air quality and cleanliness in check.

4. Seasonal or Weather-Based Cleaning

If your parkade gets covered in salt during winter, or if nearby construction kicks up a lot of dust, you may need extra cleanings. It’s smart to book cleanings after major weather changes or dirty seasons, as it gets busy.

Watch for These Signs It’s Time to Clean

Even if you follow a set schedule, it’s good to watch for warning signs. If you see any of the following, your parkade likely needs a wash:

• Oil or grease stains are building up
• The surface looks dull or dirty
• There’s a strong smell coming from the area
• Tire marks won’t go away
• Pedestrians are slipping or tracking dirt inside
• Tenants or visitors are complaining about the mess

When in doubt, it’s better to clean sooner rather than later. A clean parking lot always makes your building look better and run smoother.

Professional Cleaning Makes a Big Difference

Pressure washing a parkade isn’t like hosing down a sidewalk. It requires special equipment, the right water pressure, and proper drainage. At Grime Fighters, we use professional tools and eco-friendly solutions to get deep into the concrete and lift the grime without causing damage.

We also know how to handle oil stains, gum, salt, and even hard-to-reach corners. Our team works quickly and safely, so your parkade is cleaned with minimal downtime.

Let’s Get Your Parkade Looking Fresh Again with Grime Fighters Super Clean Heroes!

At Grime Fighters, we offer professional pressure washing for parkades in commercial buildings, strata properties, and public facilities across Metro Vancouver. We’ll help you choose the right cleaning schedule for your space, no guesswork, just clean results.