No Products in the Cart
Wondering how you should be cleaning your much-neglected patio in time for all those summer parties you’re planning? You’re not alone! It’s that time of year when we’re all looking out wistfully into the back garden in the full glare of that glorious spring sunshine…and feeling a bit peevish as we scan the effects of winter on our patio.
Let's look at what you can do now - get some handy steps and tips below …
If you have not already started cleaning your deck and patio in the winter months, (who could blame you for all these storms in the background) Spring is the season for it.
You will inevitably see the build-up of organic growth such as moss, weeds and mould as well as the buildup of dirt and debris.
As much stormy weather, frost and dampness would have preceded it, it's a good time to check paving slab joints and consider re-pointing.
If you haven’t done this already, sweep and tidy the area by removing all furniture items, clutter, and debris.
Start by removing fallen leaves, trim back shrubs and clear off plants and any other flora that may stain your patio having been left there for a long time. Remove all weeds growing in between - you may want a weed killer for this job
We advise sweeping your patio clean regularly anyway, like after a storm so that the buildup doesn’t leave marks.
Cleaning, maintaining, and protecting your natural stone and concrete paving does not have to be complicated.
Wondering how you can clean your patio, paving and patio slabs without chemicals? A good homemade patio cleaner could get you started. The simplest solution is to scrub your patio with a good wire brush and with soapy water. You could go for washing up liquid if stuck.
All you must do is:
White vinegar available in most supermarkets is also a non-toxic environmentally friendly alternative to industrial formulations. Important to note this won’t be good for Limestone paving as it will damage the surface.
Cleaners and stain removers specially formulated for your stone paving are also a safe bet. Just make sure you read the specifications carefully and match them to the appropriate type of stone slabs you may have.
Emerald Clover Weed & Moss Buster- This cleaner will treat unwanted Weeds and Algae on Drives, Paths, and Patios. This is a Biodegradable and Natural Product which is safe around Pets.
This is an ideal solution if you’re looking for a fast effective way to remove stains, dried cement and other tougher materials.
Generally, it is a worthwhile investment to acquire a Pressure Washer as there are so many other parts of your property that will be crying out for its use. They can also be hired or even better, borrowed from a friend!
Be careful though with initial use so as not to damage or displace ornamental features, mosaic, or chunks of your patio if your power washer setting is too powerful.
The main thing to remember is to avoid over-exposure to the pressure washer whilst also ensuring you follow a systematic path that ensures you cover every last inch.
Here at D Lynch & Sons we highly recommend the Karcher K3 or Karcher K4 Compact Home pressure Washer.
Apply a patio slab sealant for future protection, if you can, to avoid future stains from penetrating the surface - the right sealant helps your paving resist algae growth, oil and fuel stains.
Check the joints when finished cleaning in case you need to do any restoration work.
If the jointing of your patio paving starts to loosen and crack, you can take steps to repair any jointing that needs maintenance. A jointing compound will be needed.
