How To Clean Patio Slabs

If you have patio slabs installed at your property, it’s important that you understand how to keep them properly maintained in order to maximise their performance and minimise the likelihood of issues occurring. 

Cleaning patio slabs is particularly important in the winter months when they can be negatively affected by adverse weather conditions. 

If you’re wondering “what is the best way to clean patio slabs?”, the expert team here at R&J Landscapes has put together this handy guide outlining how you can carry out the task successfully. 

Jet washing or pressure washing a patio

Why it’s important to clean patio slabs 

Often, patio slabs get neglected when it comes to garden maintenance, but it’s an important task that should not be overlooked. 

This is because cleaning your garden patio slabs can prevent the growth of weeds, moss, and algae. These can cause all kinds of problems to your garden including damage to the slabs and spreading to the flowers and plants that you want in your outdoor space. The slabs can also become slippery, increasing the risk of you or someone else tripping or falling.

As well as the practical reasons for cleaning your patio slabs, it can also enhance its aesthetics. Many people have slabs installed in the first place due to the stylish and sophisticated look they bring, and regularly cleaning them can help to maintain this great appearance.       

What do I need to clean patio slabs?

Before beginning to clean your patio slabs, you need to make sure you have the appropriate tools in place to do the job. 

This includes: 

  • A bucket
  • A brush
  • Warm water 

Depending on the cleaning method you’ve chosen, you may also require bleach or a pressure washer. 

How to clean patio slabs

The best way to clean patio slabs will vary depending on your facilities and the specifics of your property. 

The three main methods of cleaning patio slabs include cleaning with soap and water, cleaning with bleach and cleaning with pressure washers. 

We’ll cover each method below:

How to clean patio slabs with soap and water 

1. Remove weeds 

If any weeds are present, be sure to remove them before starting to clean the slabs. You can pull these up by hand or use a weed killer if the problem is severe. 

2. Mix soap with warm water 

Use some household soap, like washing up liquid, and mix it in a bucket with warm water. Mix it until it has become foamy. 

Be sure to check the ingredients in your chosen soap, as some acidic products can damage slabs. 

3. Pour the mixture 

Next, pour your mixture on the slabs you’re cleaning. You might want to do this in stages if you’re dealing with an especially large area and it’s always a good idea to do a small area first to make sure your slabs have not been adversely affected by the mix.

4. Begin brushing

Grab your brush and begin brushing the slabs. Use a brush with a long broom handle for ease, and you should notice the slabs becoming cleaner as you go along. 

5. Rinse the slabs

To complete the process, rinse the slabs with water. 

 How to clean patio slabs with bleach 

1. Mix bleach with water

Bleach can help with particularly stubborn stains, and the first step is to mix it with water. Mix five parts water with one part bleach, and it’s usually better to do this in a watering can as it offers greater pouring control than a bucket, which is important when handling bleach. 

2. Pour the mixture 

Evenly pour the mixture across the slabs, making sure to be careful that none of the bleach interacts with plants in your garden as this can cause them harm. 

3. Brush the slabs 

Begin brushing the mixture on the slabs. During this process, you should notice foam building up. Once you’ve completed brushing, wait 15 minutes before moving on to the next step.

4. Rinse your slabs 

Rinse the slabs with clean water and enjoy your sparkling patio!

How to clean your slabs with a pressure washer   

1. Remove debris 

Using a pressure washer is the most convenient way to clean slabs, but before you get hosing you should make sure all debris is cleared from the area. Use a brush to sweep away any twigs and leaves, and get rid of any weeds that have appeared. 

2.  Connect your pressure washer

To work effectively, pressure washers require a constant water supply, so connect yours to the mains.

3. Fill with detergent 

Fill your pressure washer with detergent if you’re using a machine that has the capacity to do this. 

4. Spray the patio slabs 

Make sure your pressure washer nozzle is set to medium and begin spraying the area. Move from left to right making sure you achieve consistent coverage. 

Once this has been done, you can get back to enjoying your, now, freshly clean patio. 

 

At R&J Landscapes (London), we provide properties across Watford, Harrow and the surrounding areas with leading patio cleaning services. We can take care of the entire process on your behalf, leaving you with stunning patios that you can make the most of. To find out more about our comprehensive range of patio services, get in touch today.