Spring is upon us which means an annual preparation for the summer begins. We are all about to start to prepare to spend more time outside, which means getting the garden in order.
The problem? You gaze outside your window and see a patio with a lot more green than you'd like to see. Weeds start to spring up at this time of year in the places you want them least.
Five 'common' patio cleaning mistakes to avoid discolouring and ruining paving slabs Patios can build up grime throughout the year, as well as moss, algae and weeds which can be unsightly. Paving specialist and founding director of Infinite Paving, Rowan Cripps, has shared how to care for paving stones and patios.
1. Using a pressure washer too much.
Pressure washers are a great way to remove stains and stubborn marks, but overusing them isn't advised. The expert said using them too much can result in the removal of the sealant which is used on the stone to help protect it, reports the Express.
However, when used in moderation, they can be a quick and effective way of removing moss, algae and dirt.
2. Using bleach.
Rowan said: "Using bleach or diluted bleach to clean your pavers from summer spills or rust stains from fire bowls during cooler months is for some reason a piece of advice that we see all too commonly." "However, we advise against this as it could potentially discolour and ruin your patio slabs."
Instead, gardeners could use soapy warm water to scrub away the dirt, or even use white vinegar.
3. Not cleaning stains as soon as they appear.
According to the expert, not cleaning marks immediately is a "common" mistake made by people with their paving stones. If Britons don't act fast to clean any stains or spillages, they could leave permanent marks on the paving slabs.
Rowan shared: "Avoid cleaning them if rain is expected. Applying cleaning products onto a dry surface allows the cleaner to stay on the designated spots for longer to gently clean and restore your paving back to its original colour."
4. Not rinsing after cleaning
It's just as important to rinse your patios with clean, fresh water after cleaning them. This is because any product used could leave a dull finish or even discolour over time if they are never rinsed after.
