Block Paving Cleaning

What makes block paving different

Unlike large slabs, block paving relies on its joints. The blocks sit on a bed of sand and are locked together by fine sand brushed into the gaps between them. That jointing sand is what stops blocks shifting under cars and feet, so a cleaning method that washes it all out can loosen the surface.

Blocks can be concrete or clay, smooth or tumbled, and each weathers differently. Oil marks, tyre scuffs and tannin stains from leaves behave differently from organic growth.

Moss, weeds and green algae

Moss thrives in damp, shaded joints along the edges of driveways and beside walls. Weeds root down into the jointing sand, especially where it has already been partly washed out. A thin green film of algae across the faces of the blocks is what usually makes paving slippery in wet weather.

Each needs a slightly different approach. Surface algae can be cleaned off; rooted weeds and dense moss in the joints need removing rather than simply washing over.

How we approach a block paving clean

We look at the paving first: the type of block, the state of the joints, any sunken or rocking areas and where water drains. The method and pressure are then chosen to suit that surface, keeping in mind that aggressive cleaning close to the joints can remove the sand that holds the blocks.

If joints have already lost a lot of sand, tell us. It affects how the surface should be cleaned and is worth knowing about whether or not you go ahead.

Sunken areas and loose blocks

A dip in a driveway, a patch that stays wet or blocks that rock underfoot usually mean something has moved in the base below. Cleaning will not correct that, and a weakened area may be disturbed further by water. We would rather point it out than clean over it.

Photographs of the whole driveway, including any low spots and the edges against the lawn or road, help us understand the surface before quoting.

Driveways, paths and patios together

Many homes have block paving at the front and a slab patio or path at the back. Each material needs its own approach, and our patio cleaning page explains how we treat slabs and natural stone. Mentioning all the areas you want cleaned in one enquiry lets us plan the visit as a whole.

If roof or gutter work is also planned, do it first. Moss and debris from above can fall onto freshly cleaned paving.

Keeping block paving clean afterwards

Sweeping leaves and soil off before they rot into the joints makes a real difference. Shaded areas and edges beside lawns will always green over faster than open, sunny paving.

Clear any blocked surface drainage channels so water does not sit on the drive, and deal with weeds while they are small rather than letting roots open up the joints. Our driveway cleaning guide has more practical upkeep advice.

Oil, tyre marks and stains

Not every mark on a driveway is growth. Oil drips under parked cars, rust from furniture and tannin stains from fallen leaves behave differently from moss and algae, and some may only lighten rather than disappear. Point out any marks that matter most to you so we can say honestly what to expect.

Clay and concrete blocks also react differently, so knowing which you have helps set realistic expectations.

What to include in your enquiry

Send photographs of the whole driveway or path, close-ups of joints and any stained or sunken areas. Mention where water drains, whether cars can be moved on the day and whether there is an outside tap.