Best Ways to Clean a Patio (Full Guide)

Using a mixture of water and soap:

One of the simplest and cheapest methods available and worth a go before you opt for a more expensive option. 

What you need:

• Scrubbing brush or stiff broom
• Bucket
• Dishwashing soap
• Garden hose or pressure washer
• Water

Method:

1. Start by removing any debris or loose dirt from the surface of the paving slabs using a stiff-bristled brush or broom.
2. Mix a solution of warm water and soap in a bucket or container. You can use any mild soap, such as dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent.
3. Pour the solution onto the paving slabs and use a scrubbing brush or stiff broom to work it into the surface, paying particular attention to any stains or areas with moss or algae growth.
4. Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes to allow it to penetrate the surface.
5. Rinse off the soap solution with a garden hose or pressure washer, making sure to remove all soap residue.
6. Allow the paving slabs to dry completely before using them again.

Pros:

• Safe and non-toxic method
• Economically priced
• Can be easily done using household products
• Effective for removing light stains and dirt buildup
• Can be used on most types of paving slabs

Cons:

• May not be effective for heavy stains or moss growth
• Can require a lot of scrubbing and effort

Best for: Removing stains and moss growth from paving slabs, especially those in shaded areas.

Using vinegar:

What you need:

• Scrubbing brush or stiff broom
• Bucket
• Mixture of white vinegar and water 50/50 ratio or stronger
• Spray bottle
• Garden hose or pressure washer
• Water

Method:

• Remove any debris or loose dirt from the surface of the paving slabs using a stiff-bristled brush or broom.
• Remove any furniture or pots from the patio as the vinegar may react with these.
• Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle (white vinegar is made from grains and is therefore eco-friendly)
• Spray the solution onto the paving slabs, making sure to cover the entire surface.
• Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes to allow it to penetrate the surface.
• Scrub the surface of the paving slabs with a stiff-bristled brush to remove any stains or moss growth.
• Rinse off the vinegar solution with a garden hose or pressure washer, making sure to remove all residue.
• Allow the paving slabs to dry completely before using them again.

Pros:

• Safe and non-toxic method
• Economically priced
• Can be easily done using household products
• Effective for removing stains and moss growth
• Can be used on most types of paving slabs

Cons:

• May not be effective for heavy or stubborn stains
• Can have a strong odour
• Can cause minerals such as iron with some stone types to oxidise (rust)

Best for: Removing stains and moss growth from paving slabs, especially those in shaded areas.

Using bleach:

What you need:

• Scrubbing brush or stiff broom
• Bucket
• Mixture of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water
• Garden hose or pressure washer
• Water

Method:

• Remove any debris or loose dirt from the surface of the paving slabs using a stiff-bristled brush or broom.
• Mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water in a bucket or container.
• Pour the solution onto the paving slabs and use a scrub brush to work it into the surface, paying particular attention to any stains or areas with moss or algae growth.
• Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes to allow it to penetrate the surface.
• Rinse off the bleach solution with a garden hose or pressure washer, making sure to remove all residue.
• Allow the paving slabs to dry completely before using them again.

Pros:

• Effective for removing heavy stains and moss growth
• Can be used on most types of paving slabs

Cons:

• Can be harmful if not used correctly or if it comes into contact with plants or grass
• Can have a strong odour
• Can cause discolouration of certain types of paving slabs such as black limestone
• Can cause minerals such as iron with some stone types to oxidise (rust)

Best for: Removing heavy stains and moss growth from light-coloured paving slabs.

Using a pressure washer:

What you need:

• Stiff broom
• Pressure washer
• Optional patio cleaning solution
• Water

Method:

• Remove any debris or loose dirt from the surface of the paving slabs using a stiff-bristled brush or broom.
• Rent or purchase a pressure washer from your local hardware store.
• Fill the pressure washer with water and turn it on.
• Starting at the highest point of the paving slabs, use the pressure washer to spray the surface, working your way down to the lowest point.
• Pay special attention to any areas with stains or moss growth, using a higher pressure setting if necessary.
• Rinse off the paving slabs with the pressure washer, making sure to remove all debris and residue.
• Allow the paving slabs to dry completely before using them again.

Pros:

• Effective for removing dirt, stains, and moss growth quickly and easily
• Can be used on most types of paving slabs
• Can be rented or purchased for a reasonable price

Cons:

• Can be dangerous if not used correctly or if the pressure is set too high
• Can cause damage to certain types of paving slabs, the paving joints or the surrounding area
• May not be effective for stubborn stains or moss growth

Best for: Deep cleaning heavily soiled or stained paving slabs, or large areas with a lot of buildup. It's also a good option for regular maintenance cleaning for people who have a lot of outdoor spaces to clean.

The cleaning process for patios and block paving driveways is largely the same, but there are a few key differences to keep in mind:

1. Jointing sand: Block paving driveways are often filled with jointing sand as against a fixed joint used with patio paving, which can become dislodged during cleaning. It's important to use the correct pressure setting on a pressure washer to avoid damaging the jointing sand, and to reapply sand after cleaning if necessary. Use of a sand stabilser product helps to reduce the loss of sand during pressure washing. 

2. Drainage: Block paving driveways are designed to allow for proper drainage, and the cleaning process should not interfere with this. It's important to direct water away from any drainage channels or grids, and to avoid using too much water during cleaning that could cause standing water on the driveway. Permeable driveways rely on the serrated edge of each of the blocks to percolate water away from the patio. Be sure not to leave residue on the surface of permeable blocks that prevent water from running through the gaps.

3. Sealing: Some block paving driveways may be sealed to protect the surface and prevent moss and algae growth. It's important to check whether the driveway has been sealed before cleaning, and to use appropriate cleaning products that won't damage the sealant.

Overall, the main difference between cleaning a patio and a block paving driveway is the jointing sand and any specific drainage solutions, which requires extra care during the cleaning process. With proper technique and attention to detail, both patios and block paving driveways can be cleaned effectively and safely.

Common Patio Stains and How to Remove them

Patios are exposed to a variety of outdoor elements and are prone to different types of stains. As with all chemicals, test on an inconspicuous area first. Some stone types will be permanently stains by using household and chemical cleaners, especially black limestone that will be bleached by bleach or acid based cleaners.

Here are some common stains on patios and how to remove them:

1. Grease and oil stains: These stains are often caused by spills from barbecues or outdoor cooking equipment. To remove them, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain and let it sit for several minutes. Then, use a stiff brush to scrub the stain and rinse with water.

2. Rust stains: Rust stains are common on patios with metal furniture or outdoor fixtures. To remove them, mix equal parts of lemon juice and salt and apply the mixture to the stain. Let it sit for several hours before rinsing with water. For stubborn stains, you can also try using a commercial rust remover such as Pavetuf Rust Remover or NCC Rust Stain Remover. .

3. Moss and algae: Moss and algae can grow on patios that are shaded or damp. To remove them, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and apply the mixture to the affected area. Let it sit for several hours before scrubbing with a stiff brush and rinsing with water. For stubborn growth, you can also try using a commercial moss and algae remover such as Pavetuf Greenoff or NCC Blackspot & Green Growth Remover.

4. Wine and food stains: These stains are common on patios that are used for outdoor dining and entertaining. To remove them, mix equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide and apply the mixture to the stain. Let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing with a stiff brush and rinsing with water.

5. Dirt and grime: Over time, patios can accumulate dirt and grime that can be difficult to remove. To clean a dirty patio, use a mixture of warm water and dish soap and scrub with a stiff brush. Rinse with water and repeat as necessary.

6. Salt stains: Salt can cause unsightly white stains on patio surfaces and in the mortar between pavers. To remove salt stains, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar and apply the mixture to the affected area. Scrub the stain with a stiff brush and rinse with water. For tougher stains, you can also try using a commercial salt stain remover.

7. Cement film: After a new patio or block paving driveway is installed, a cement film may remain on the surface of the paving slabs. This film can be difficult to remove with regular cleaning methods. To remove cement film, mix equal parts of water and muriatic acid and apply the mixture to the affected area. Be sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling muriatic acid. Let the mixture sit for several minutes before scrubbing with a stiff brush and rinsing with water. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety precautions when using muriatic acid. Note that cement film removers are often a better option, however not suitable for all types of paving. Check instructions before use. 

It's important to note that some types of stains may require specialised cleaning products or techniques. Always follow the instructions on any cleaning product and test it on a small, inconspicuous area of your patio before using it on a larger stain. Warning: some household cleaners such as bleach and vinegar can either bleach stone or cause iron within the stone to rust, so it is often preferable to use specialist cleaner such as those below. 

NCC Cement, Grout & Salt Remover

NCC Blackspot & Green Growth Remover

NCC Porcelain Intensive Cleaner

Lithofin Algex Algae Remover

Pavetuf Porcelain Cleaner

NCC Rust Stain Remover

Pavetuf Rust Stain Remover

Pavetuf Deep Cleaner

Pavetuf Green Off Cleaner

Lithofin Cement Residue Remover

Pavetuf Salt Eraser

Pavetuf General Cleaner