Spring's arrival often prompts thoughts of cleaning the patio to prepare for outdoor gatherings. Pressure washing is a fast way to achieve cleanliness, but it requires caution to prevent damaging your pavers.
Consulting with cleaning experts helps ensure you can effectively clean your patio without risking grout damage.
Pressure Washing Your Patio Without Causing Damage
Step 1: Clear and Treat Your Patio First
Remove debris and treat stains before using a pressure washer.
Start by clearing furniture, plants, and any winter debris from your patio prior to pressure washing. Failing to do this could lead to applying excessive pressure, which may harm the surface.
As a cleaning specialist suggests, 'Sweep away loose dirt with a stiff broom. Apply a cleaner to tackle stubborn stains.'
While a patio detergent can be beneficial for tough stains, it's often unnecessary for standard dirt. The pressure washer's water is typically effective enough, especially if your patio is showing signs of green growth.
Some experts recommend pre-treating with a diluted cleaning solution. One experienced professional notes, 'My first step before using the pressure washer is to apply a diluted cleaning solution.' Simple Green All Purpose Cleaner Concentrate can be found on Amazon.
Soaking the patio with a cleaning solution beforehand will help loosen any dirt and algae accumulated over the winter, making subsequent pressure washing easier.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
Rust resistant
Libman Push Broom
This versatile broom is perfect for clearing fine and large debris like leaves, prepping your patio for pressure washing.
Step 2: Test Your Cleaning Solution
Always test your detergent in a discreet area first.
Using a detergent while pressure washing isn't mandatory, so you can proceed directly to step three if you prefer just high-pressure water. However, if you choose to use a cleaner, make sure it's safe for your patio.
Our recommended product is the Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner available at Amazon, which effectively lifts stains without harsh chemicals.
Before applying it to the entire surface, test a small, inconspicuous section to ensure it won't cause damage. Pick a dirty area for the test to check its effectiveness.
Step 3: Begin Pressure Washing
Revitalize your pavers with pressure washing.
After clearing, treating, and testing, you're ready to pressure wash. Remember, there are certain items best left unwashed with a pressure washer. Start with the lowest pressure setting to prevent harm.
'Start at the lowest pressure setting,' advises an expert. 'Increase gradually as needed to remove dirt without damaging the surface.'
Pay attention to the angle of the nozzle as well. A landscape specialist suggests directing it at a 45-degree angle from the paving, maintaining a proper distance.
This angle is essential to avoid damaging the surface, especially wooden components, and helps disperse water and cleaning solution evenly while preventing streaks. Keep the nozzle's distance consistent for even pressure on your patio.
Also, as another expert mentions, use the appropriate attachment, typically a surface cleaner or a fan tip between 25 and 40 degrees.
'Avoid using a
