Start with the paving, not the pressure setting
Concrete slabs, natural stone and porcelain do not respond identically to cleaning. A patio can also contain more than one material: sandstone beside a brick step, for example, or newer slabs against an older path. Looking at each part prevents a method that suits one surface being applied indiscriminately to the rest. Loose edges, worn pointing and a rocking slab are reasons to discuss the condition before concentrating on appearance.
If you are comparing local patio cleaners, ask what they need to know about your paving. A useful conversation covers surface type, access and drainage, as well as the marks you want addressed. Our work photographs include sandstone and porcelain patios. Use them to see the different surfaces, then describe your own paving and the condition of its joints when you enquire.
Is pressure washing appropriate here?
Pressure washing can be appropriate for sound patio paving, but it is not a universal answer. Excessive pressure or a lance held too close may disturb pointing, remove jointing material or mark a vulnerable surface. On an Indian sandstone patio, the stone condition and the joints deserve particular attention. Any product used should be compatible with that stone rather than chosen solely because it removes a particular colour of stain.
We never pressure wash roof tiles. Patio paving needs its own assessment of material, joints and drainage before a method is chosen. Describe fragile stone, worn pointing or loose slabs when enquiring. If you want roof and ground-level work together, agree the approach for each surface separately and discuss how debris will be handled.
Moss, algae and slippery paths
Green algae may make a patio slippery without forming the thick clumps associated with roof moss. Moss tends to collect in joints and sheltered edges, while weeds may be rooted more deeply between slabs. Identifying these separately helps explain why brushing away loose material and dealing with established growth are different tasks. Simply removing the visible green layer does not repair a broken joint or change the shade cast by a nearby tree.
Where a path is the route to a gate or doorway, usable footing is an important reason to address growth. Keep people away from a slippery section until it can be dealt with. Do not assume a surface is safe because it looks dry in one photograph; conditions can change after rainfall.
Block paving and linked outdoor areas
Block paving cleaning needs its own judgement about joints, drainage and the stability of the blocks. A sinking area needs assessment before cleaning is considered. Tell us if you have noticed movement, areas that stay wet or loose material between blocks. Those observations help separate the dirt and growth you want removed from damage that needs a different kind of attention.
If the patio connects to steps, a side path or a driveway, describe those areas together when asking for a quote. That helps the surfaces and access be considered as a whole. Agree which areas are included and how each material will be treated before the work starts.
What affects patio cleaning cost?
The area to be cleaned is only part of the assessment. Material, accumulated growth, the state of the joints, obstacles and access all affect what the work involves. A small enclosed courtyard may be less straightforward to reach than a larger open paved area. We provide free quotes rather than publishing a blanket price that ignores those differences.
A photograph taken at ground level can show the general layout. Include the steps and borders as well as the dirtiest slab, and say whether furniture or pots usually occupy the area. Read our patio guide for maintenance advice; use the form below when you want the proposed cleaning work explained and quoted.
After the surface is clean
Cleaning does not remove the conditions that encourage growth. Shaded corners and areas beneath plants may need more attention than open paving. Sweeping fallen leaves and soil away before they settle helps keep joints visible, and watching where rainwater collects can reveal a drainage issue that cleaning alone will not solve. Avoid applying an unfamiliar chemical simply to prolong the appearance of the result.
For a combined exterior visit, consider what is above the patio. Roof moss or gutter debris can fall onto newly cleaned paving, so discuss the order of roof, gutter and ground-level work. Agree the areas you want included before work starts.
Common questions
Is it okay to pressure wash a patio?
Sometimes, if the paving and joints are suitable. Pressure and technique must suit the surface; fragile stone or damaged pointing may need a different approach.
Do you clean paths as well as patios?
Patios, paths and driveways are services we offer. Describe each surface and its condition so the quote can cover the areas you actually want cleaned.
Can you quote for an Indian sandstone patio?
Yes, you can enquire about sandstone patio cleaning. Tell us about its condition, the jointing and any marks you want addressed so the approach can be considered for your paving.
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Based in Petersfield, working across Hampshire · Surrey · Sussex, insured to £5,000,000 public liability.