There’s no better time than now to get outside in your garden and make the most of the sunshine – especially over the Easter weekend. Cleaning the patio beforehand can seem like a daunting chore, but Express.co.uk has all the tips and tricks to make it easier.
How to clean a patio
Step 1: Remove any weeds
Weeds will take root and grow everywhere, especially if the long winter means you haven’t had a chance to clean them up.
If your garden has weeds, it is important to remove these as soon as possible in order to stop them taking root in your paving joints.
How you choose to move the weeds depends on their strength and scale. Smaller ones can be removed by pulling them up, taking as much of the root as possible when you go.
The alternative is to use a strong weed killer to do the job for you – but make sure to thoroughly read the manufacturer’s guidance.
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Step 2: Mix the soap with warm water to make your own patio cleaner
The first step and simplest way to clean your paving involves brushing it with warm, soapy water.
For the most part, patio slabs don’t need any special products to be cleaned with.
A mild soap such as washing up liquid and water will work just fine – mix this solution for a few seconds until you see it lathering and producing foam.
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Make sure the contents of your cleaning products are compatible with your patio, as some ingredients can damage the material.
If you have concrete paving, for example, cleaning products that contain acid are not recommended.
Step 3: Pour the mixture and start brushing
Next thing to do is to pour the mixture on the slabs you want to be cleaned.
If you have a larger area that needs doing, it is recommended you pour in stages to ensure maximum cleanliness.
Before scrubbing, test your solution on a small area of the paving to ensure no damage is done – remember to wear gloves.
Grab a hard-bristled brush and start scrubbing the floor, the easiest way to do this is to use a brush with a long broom handle.
Keep brushing until it looks like all the dirt and debris has risen to the surface, this may take some extra physical effort.
This step will not only keep your garden looking clean and fresh, but it can help to prevent the growth of weeds as well.
Step 4: Rinse with clean water
Once you’re happy that all the dirt has been lifted, rinse it off to reveal a sparkling patio underneath.
When using the pressure washer for this step, see the nozzle so that the water is distributed in a fan shape as opposed to a single jet.
This step will make sure the water is evenly distributed. Remember to hold the nozzle at a 45-degree angle from the body, and wash across the patio joints as opposed to up and down.
If your patio doesn’t look as shiny and new as you wanted it, wait a few hours and repeat the process above.
Step 5: Maintain your joints
Joints must be maintained and kept in a clean, clear condition.
Joints are one of the most important areas that assemble your paving – they are essential in holding everything in place to create a solid and secure structure.
It is recommended that you regularly sweep and remove weeds from the joints, but also to fill in any gaps in the joints.
Regular cleaning of your patio is necessary to maintain its condition and ensure it lasts as long as possible.
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