The service
Restoring Tired Block Paving and Patios
Driveways and patios build up moss, algae, weed growth in the joints and dark staining over time, especially in a coastal, damp climate like ours. ECR jet washes at a pressure matched to the surface, lifting dirt and growth without blasting out the jointing sand or chipping the edges of the blocks, which cheaper, careless washing can easily do.
Once the surface is clean, joints are re-sanded with kiln-dried sand to stabilise the blocks and slow down weed regrowth, rather than leaving bare joints for moss to move straight back into. For anyone after a longer-lasting result, sealing is available on request, giving a richer finish and making future maintenance easier.
- Block paving, flagstones, natural stone and concrete cleaned
- Pressure carefully matched to the surface to avoid damage
- Weeds and moss removed from joints, not just blasted over
- Kiln-dried sand reapplied to stabilise and finish the joints
- Optional sealing available for a longer-lasting result
Common questions
Driveway & Patio Cleaning FAQs
What is involved in professional driveway and patio cleaning?
Professional cleaning uses pressure washing equipment set to a level matched to the surface, removing moss, algae, weed growth and ingrained dirt from block paving, natural stone, slabs or concrete. Block paving is typically finished by re-sanding the joints with kiln-dried sand, which stabilises the blocks and helps slow down weed regrowth.
Will jet washing damage my block paving?
Not when it's done properly. The pressure and nozzle are matched to the surface, cleaning block paving differently to natural stone or concrete, so the finish is lifted without eroding the surface or stripping out the jointing sand. Careless washing at too high a pressure is what causes chipped edges and washed-out joints.
Can you remove oil stains?
Most general staining and dirt lifts well. Deep-set oil or rust marks can be more stubborn and may need additional treatment, and it's always worth being upfront if a stain is likely to fade rather than disappear completely.
How long before I can use the driveway or patio again?
Most surfaces can usually be walked on straight away. It's worth avoiding parking a car on freshly re-sanded block paving until it's fully dry and the sand has had a chance to settle, typically around 24 hours.
Is a patio different to clean than a driveway?
The same principles apply, matching pressure to the material and re-jointing where needed, but a patio often has more shaded, damp corners where black spot algae builds up, and natural stone paving needs a gentler approach than concrete or block paving to avoid etching the surface.
How do I choose the right company for driveway and patio cleaning?
Look for a contractor who asks what the surface material is before quoting, since block paving, natural stone and concrete all need different pressure settings. Honest advice about which stains will and won't lift, along with insurance cover, are worth checking before booking.
What to expect
Before Any of That Starts
A free, no-obligation quote sets out the price before any work begins, with pressure matched to the specific surface being cleaned. Moss, algae and weed growth are cleared from joints as standard, not just blasted over the top. The area is left tidy once finished, and honest advice is given on any staining that's unlikely to lift completely.
Why ECR
Why Choose ECR for Driveway & Patio Cleaning
Pressure Matched to the Material
Block paving, natural stone and concrete are all treated differently, protecting the surface rather than blasting it uniformly.
Joints Properly Re-Sanded
Kiln-dried sand stabilises block paving and slows weed regrowth, rather than leaving bare joints for moss to move straight back into.
Honest About What Will Lift
Stains that will fade versus stains that won't are explained upfront, not discovered after the job's done.
Ready for a Fresh Driveway?
Free, honest quotes on block paving, patios and everything in between.