Patio Cleaning

When patio cleaning is needed

Not all dirt or stains respond to plain water or sweeping. Look for signs like dark, spreading oil stains that don’t fade with rain, or slick spots when surfaces are wet—these often indicate algae or mildew buildup.

Green or black tinges in shaded corners or low spots where water pools after rain also signal organic growth that pressure washing can address.

White, powdery deposits (efflorescence) or visible etching from past cleaning attempts are other clues. These issues require targeted methods, including chemical pre-treatment for stains and careful pressure control to avoid damaging sealed or decorative surfaces.

What affects cost and timing

The size and condition of your patio—including surface type (plain concrete vs. sealed or stamped)—directly impact pricing and time. Stains requiring chemical pre-treatment or surfaces needing lower pressure to avoid damage take longer. Accessibility, such as tight corners or edges, also adds time, as these areas often need manual finishing.

Seasonal factors play a role too. Rainy periods can delay work, while hot, dry weather may require scheduling around to avoid rapid drying of cleaning solutions. Always confirm whether the quote includes post-treatment sealing, as this step can extend durability but is often billed separately.

Avoiding common mistakes

Using the wrong pressure setting on sealed or decorative concrete can strip finishes or create blotchy discoloration. Similarly, blasting oil stains without pre-treatment often spreads them further into the surface.

These errors turn a quick clean into a costly repair—so always confirm the method (pressure vs. soft wash) and chemical use upfront.

Skipping post-treatment sealing leaves surfaces vulnerable to rapid re-staining. Routine sweeping also helps prevent organic buildup, but once stains set in, professional cleaning becomes the most effective solution.