Electric vs gas pressure washers for bluestone patios
By My Yard Editorial Team · 7/28/2026
The Quick Answer
For bluestone, electric at 1,500–2,000 PSI is the right tool. Gas units at 3,000+ PSI etch soft stone permanently and blow out the joints you'll then have to repoint.
The Witty Breakdown
Bluestone is a sedimentary stone — high pressure lifts the surface layer and leaves wand stripes forever.
Use a surface cleaner attachment for even results; a wand in a human hand always leaves zebra patterns.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Start at low pressure with a 25° or 40° tip and test in a hidden corner.
- 2
Use a rotary surface cleaner for uniform coverage.
- 3
Apply a stone-safe detergent and let it dwell instead of adding pressure.
- 4
Repoint or re-sand joints after cleaning.
Pro-Tip / Do Not Do This
Don't use a zero-degree red tip on any stone, ever. That's a cutting tool, not a cleaning tool.
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