Over the years, driveways, patios and decking can build up layers of grime and staining.
If left unchecked, years of exposure to rain, dirt, algae and moss can lead to these surfaces looking dull or grimy. They can also pose a significant slip hazard, if these substances continue to build up.
By power washing on a routine basis, you can not only significantly improve the curb appeal of your property, but also preserve your driveway, patio or decking, and extend their lifespan (by removing some of the most common causes of degradation).
To help you keep your property entrance looking at its best, our paving experts have shared a handy guide to effective and efficient power washing.
What tools will you need?
Power washing (also commonly known as pressure washing) is a quick, easy and effective way to clean driveways, patios, deckings and other expansive outdoor surfaces.
This specialist equipment is precisely designed to restore these areas to their full glory, with minimal effort required.
The tools you’ll need for power washing are:
- A pressure washer
- Detergent or patio/decking cleaner – These are specifically designed to tackle algae, moss and oil
- Suitable, heavy duty footwear
- Extension wands (Optional, if you know there are hard-to-reach areas)
- Patio brush or surface scrubber (Optional, but good for particularly stubborn stains)
What is the correct pressure level to use?
It’s important to note that different surface types require different levels of pressure from a pressure washer. This way, you can ensure an effective clean, while minimising the risk of damage.
Our recommended pressure settings are:
- Decking (wood or composite): 50-120 bar (750-1750 psi).
- For patios (stone, paving slabs) – 100-200 bar (1500-3000 psi).
- For driveways (concrete or block paving) – 150-300 bar (2200-4300 psi).
This will prevent the pressure watching from scratching or otherwise damaging softer materials (like wood).
We also recommend that you start your cleaning at a lower pressure, and first test on a small area (to double check that there is no damage caused). Then, you can increase the pressure gradually, till you reach the limits outlined above.
What are the benefits of power washing?
Compared to conventional methods of cleaning, power washing offers a number of key advantages.
These include:
- Improving the appearance of your outdoor spaces
- Removing stubborn stains (including moss and algae)
- Restoring the colour of the surfaces
- Improving safety, by effectively removing slip hazards
- Cleaning efficiently and easily
- Reducing the risk of damage, and extending the lifespan of the surfaces
The recommended steps for effective power washing
- Prepare the area – Remove any items from the area (e.g. furniture or plant pots). Then, sweep away any loose debris.
- Cover any items that are too large to be moved. This will protect them from the detergent or any strong jets coming from the washer.
- Mix the cleaning solution – Prepare the solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the cleaning solution – Let the cleaning solution sit on the surface for around 5-10 minutes. This will allow the cleaning solution to start breaking down the dirt and loosening its grip on the surface.
- Power wash the surface – Set your power washer to the recommended pressure setting, and start washing.
- Keep the nozzle around 30cm away from the surface.
- Go from one end to the other, and move the power washer in slow, smooth strokes. This will prevent streaking.
- Rinse the surface – Then, rinse the entire surface with clean water. This will remove any residue from the cleaning solution and loose dirt.
- Inspect the surface – Check for any missed spots or lingering stains. Re-clean if needed. Then, once the surface has fully dried, you can move your plants and furniture back in place.
At GV Paving, we are one of the UK’s leading providers of driveway, patio and garden landscaping services. So, if you’re looking to upgrade your outdoor spaces, our team are on hand to help.