Booking a Driveway or Patio Clean: What to Expect

Getting a quote

We do not work from a fixed price list, because no two drives are the same. The quote depends on the area, the surface, how much moss, algae and staining there is, and which extras you want. Photos help, and so does a note about steps, borders and access.

A clear quote lists the clean and each extra separately. That way you can choose to have the drive cleaned now and sealed later, or skip sealing altogether on a patio that does not need it.

The extras explained

Re-sanding replaces the jointing sand that a jet wash lifts out of block paving. Without it, weeds and moss find their way back into the gaps quickly and the blocks can start to move.

Treatment is applied after cleaning to slow the return of algae, moss and black spot. Re-sealing locks the sand in and gives the surface some protection from stains and weather.

Tarmac is a separate job. It is cleaned and can be restored and re-sealed rather than jet washed like paving.

Choosing the right method

Block paving and concrete suit pressure washing. Delicate stone, some patio slabs and surfaces near render or painted walls may be better soft washed, where low pressure and cleaning solutions do the work. A good company explains which method suits each surface rather than using full pressure everywhere.

On the day

Clear cars, bins and furniture off the area before the team arrives, and close nearby windows. Expect noise from the machine and some spray. The dirt and debris washed off are cleared up rather than left in the borders or on the pavement. If re-sanding or sealing is booked, dry weather is needed, so those stages may be scheduled for the driest part of the day or another date.

What a good result looks like

An even colour across the whole surface without stripes or patches, joints full of fresh sand where re-sanding was booked, no standing puddles of dirty water, and edges, steps and corners as clean as the middle. Some deep oil and rust stains can be improved rather than fully removed, and you should be told that honestly before the work starts.