Patio Clean

Patio cleaning in Burgess Hill

We were recently called out to a residential property in Burgess Hill to address a large rear patio that had certainly seen better days. Over the last few years, the West Sussex weather had taken its toll on the stone, leaving the entire area looking dull, grey, and dangerously slippery underfoot. The customer was particularly concerned about the thick buildup of black spot lichen and green algae that had colonised the surface, making the outdoor space feel unwelcoming and neglected. With our two decades of experience in exterior cleaning, we knew exactly how to approach the job while keeping the pointing intact.

Assessing the stone before we started

Before any water was applied, we carried out a careful assessment of the stone type to make sure we used the correct pressure settings. Patio slabs can vary quite a bit in density and porosity, so getting this right matters. We also checked the condition of the pointing around the edges and between the slabs, as we wanted to avoid disturbing it during the clean. This initial check is something we do on every patio cleaning job, and it helps us tailor the work to the specific surface rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

Treatment and pressure washing method

We started by applying a professional-grade, biodegradable cleaning solution specifically formulated to break down stubborn organic growth without damaging the surrounding garden plants. Once the treatment had time to dwell and loosen the ingrained grime, we used our high-performance pressure washing equipment. We worked methodically across the terrace, using a flat surface cleaner to provide an even, streak-free finish. This professional tool lifts years of dirt and lichen far more effectively than a standard domestic power washer ever could, and it also helps keep the surface consistent across the whole area.

Rinsing down and clearing the drainage

After the deep clean, we spent a good amount of time rinsing the entire area down to ensure all debris was cleared from the surface and the drainage channels were flowing freely. This is an important finishing step, as leftover residue can dry into a film on the stone and undo some of the work. We also checked the edges and any low spots where water tends to gather, making sure nothing was left behind and the patio was left tidy and ready to use.

The finished patio and maintenance advice

Once the stone had dried, the difference was very noticeable. The cleaning removed the accumulated lichen and algae, and the natural colour and texture of the slabs came back through properly. The surface was no longer slippery, which addressed the main safety concern, and the whole rear garden felt far more welcoming. We recommended a simple maintenance routine of regular sweeping and an occasional wash with mild soapy water to prevent new spores from taking hold. For anyone in Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, or across Sussex, we are always happy to provide a free estimate for patio cleaning or driveway cleaning work.