A professional pressure wash lifts the dirt, moss, algae and weeds that build up on driveways, patios and decking, and on most surfaces the difference is obvious once it dries. Expect the area to be cleared beforehand, noise and spray while the work is done, and a wet surface for a while afterwards. Block paving will usually need re-sanding once it is dry, and some deep stains, such as oil and rust, may fade rather than disappear.
What comes off, and what may not
Water under pressure is very good at shifting the things that build up on outdoor surfaces in a damp climate:
- Green algae and the slippery film that forms in shady spots.
- Moss and weeds growing in the joints.
- Ground-in dirt, mud and leaf stains.
- The general grime that slowly dulls the colour of paving and timber.
Some marks are more stubborn. Oil and rust soak into porous surfaces and may lighten without vanishing completely. The small black spots found on many patios are usually lichen, which grips the surface tightly. Pressure alone often will not shift them, and they are normally treated with a product that breaks them down over the following weeks. It is worth asking before the job what is realistic for your particular stains.
Each surface needs a different touch
Not every surface can take the same treatment. A careful cleaner adjusts the pressure, the nozzle and the distance to suit what is underneath.
Block paving
Block paving cleans up well, but the water washes sand out of the joints along with the dirt. Re-sanding afterwards is an important part of the job, because empty joints let blocks move and give weeds somewhere to grow. Many people choose to seal at the same time, and the guide to block paving re-sanding and sealing explains what is involved.
Natural stone and porcelain
Sandstone and other softer stone can be scarred by a jet held too close or at too much pressure, so it needs a gentler approach. Porcelain paving absorbs very little water and generally cleans up more easily.
Concrete and tarmac
Plain concrete is tough and usually takes a thorough clean well. Tarmac needs more care, because too much pressure can loosen the small stones in the surface.
Decking
Timber decking is softer than it looks. Too much pressure tears the surface fibres and leaves the boards rough and furry, so decking is best cleaned at lower pressure, working along the length of the boards. Once it is clean and fully dry, it is a good time to re-oil or re-stain it. Composite decking has its own care guidance, so check what the manufacturer recommends.
What happens on the day
Every job is a little different, but this is broadly what to expect from a professional clean:
- The area needs to be clear, so move cars, pots, furniture and bins beforehand.
- Nearby doors and windows should stay shut, and delicate plants need protecting, because pressure washing throws up muddy spray.
- Large flat areas are often cleaned with a rotary surface cleaner, a round hood with spinning jets inside, which gives an even finish with less splashing. Edges, steps and corners are done with a hand lance.
- The loosened dirt, moss and silt is rinsed and swept up, and any walls, doors or paths that were splashed are rinsed down.
- Block paving is re-sanded once it is dry, so that stage may come later.
Pressure washers are noisy, so it is kind to warn your neighbours. Ask in advance whether the cleaner will need your outside tap. And do not judge the result while the surface is still wet: damp areas look darker, so the true finish only shows once everything has dried.
How long does a clean last?
Mostly that depends on shade and damp. A sunny, open driveway can stay clean for a long time, while a patio under trees or on the shady side of the house will turn green again much sooner. The Weald is a well wooded part of the country, and plenty of gardens around Tunbridge Wells sit in the shade of mature trees, so it is worth bearing in mind.
You can stretch the time between cleans by:
- Sweeping regularly, so leaves and dirt do not sit and rot on the surface.
- Cutting back overhanging hedges and shrubs to let in light and air, as part of regular garden maintenance.
- Keeping drains and channels clear, so water does not pool.
- Keeping the joints in block paving topped up, and considering a sealer.
Should you do it yourself?
Domestic pressure washers are easy to buy or hire, and plenty of people clean a small patio themselves. A few things are worth knowing first:
- Holding the lance too close, or moving it unevenly, leaves stripes and gouges that are hard to undo.
- Wet algae is very slippery, so wear shoes with a good grip and keep children and pets well away.
- Never point the jet at people, animals or your own feet. A high pressure jet can cause serious injury.
- With an electric machine, plug into a residual current device (RCD) and keep plugs and connections out of the water.
- Sweep up the debris afterwards rather than washing it all into the drains.
For larger driveways, softer stone, decking or anywhere you are not confident, professional pressure washing is the safer choice.
Questions to ask before booking
- How will you clean my surface, and how will you avoid damaging it?
- Is re-sanding included for block paving?
- Do you recommend a treatment afterwards to slow regrowth, and is it safe for pets and plants once dry?
- How will you protect plants, doors, windows and walls?
- Do you need to use my outside tap?
- What can I realistically expect for oil, rust or black spot staining?
Getting a quote in Kent
Meridian Maintenance offers driveway, patio and decking pressure washing across Kent, from its base in Tunbridge Wells. It is a small, family run business headed by Charlie, with ten years of experience in the trade.
Quotations are free and there is no deposit to pay. Find out more about pressure washing with Meridian, get in touch for a free quote, or call Charlie on 07742 413224.
