Is your patio looking worse for wear after winter? Beyond being unsightly, green moss and algae can create slippery and hazardous conditions. This simple guide will walk you through spring cleaning your patio, including what to do and, importantly, what to avoid!
Ready to clean your patio? Start here
Prior to cleaning your patio, follow these essential steps:
- Clear the Patio: Remove all plants, pots, and furniture from the area. Cleaning products can be harmful or even fatal to plants. If plant removal is impossible, ensure both the plants and their surrounding soil are well-protected, preventing any product runoff into the soil.
- Sweep Thoroughly: Clear the patio surface of loose dirt, leaves, and other debris.
- Test in an Inconspicuous Spot: Before applying any cleaning product to the entire patio, test it on a small, hidden section of paving to ensure it doesn't cause damage or discoloration.
How to clean paving with hot soapy water
For lightly soiled patios, especially those with softer stone, a simple solution of hot, soapy water can be effective. Here's the method:
- Mix: Combine dish soap with hot water in a bucket.
- Apply: Splash the soapy water generously over the patio surface.
- Scrub: Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the affected areas.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the patio with clean water.
- Dry: Allow the patio to dry completely for 24 hours.
- Repeat: If necessary, repeat the process for stubborn stains.
Using a pressure washer on patios
Pressure washers are highly effective for cleaning paving, but require careful handling to prevent damage to both the paving surface and the pointing. To maximise results and minimise risk, follow these guidelines:
- Start Low and Wide: Begin with the pressure washer set to its lowest setting and use the fan spray nozzle, not the concentrated jet.
- Distance is Key: Maintain a distance between the pressure washer nozzle and the paving surface, rather than spraying from close range.
- Angle it Right: Direct the spray at a shallow angle (approximately 30 degrees) to the paving to avoid etching or damaging the paver surface.
- Diagonal Movement: Move the spray in a diagonal pattern across the pavers. Avoid spraying directly along the joints, as this can displace or damage the pointing.
Is Vinegar Safe for Patio Cleaning?
While white vinegar is touted as a natural cleaner and is effective at stain removal, many landscaping professionals advise against using it on paving. The acid in vinegar can potentially damage the surface of certain stones, especially limestone and concrete pavers. To ensure the safety of your patio, the best approach is to stick with the tried-and-true method of hot, soapy water combined with some good old-fashioned scrubbing.
Find everything you need to revitalize your garden this spring at our garden centre in St. Albans, Hertfordshire. Visit us today!
