Avoid This Costly Patio Cleaning Mistake That Could Set You Back £4,500!

With summer here, many people are eager to refresh their patios, leading to a huge rise in online searches for “pressure washing.” However, experts warn that rushing into this task can lead to expensive mistakes.

Alex Essex, the Managing Director at The Patio Black Spot Removal Company, highlights the risks. He points out, “Replacing damaged patio tiles can be costly.” His research reveals that nearly 40% of homeowners are making serious errors while using pressure washers. This often results in significant damage.

Natural stones like sandstone and limestone are particularly at risk. The strong water pressure can harm these materials, leaving them looking worse than before. In fact, laying a new patio can cost between £125 and £300 per square meter, depending on the materials used, according to the Express.

For a typical 30-square-meter patio, costs can soar to about £4,500, which includes groundwork and installation. This hefty price tag emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance.

So how can you safely pressure wash your patio? Here are some tips:

• Use a pressure washer with adjustable PSI settings. Aim for 1,200-1,800 PSI to minimize damage.
• Choose a broad or fan-shaped nozzle to distribute the water evenly, avoiding concentrated jets that can etch surfaces.
• Before cleaning the entire area, test a small spot to check for damage or discoloration.
• Stand 12 to 18 inches away from the patio surface and keep the nozzle moving to prevent excess pressure on any one spot.
• Start from the highest point of your patio and work your way down, overlapping your movements to prevent streaks.
• Avoid blasting water into the gaps between stones. If sand is displaced, allow the area to dry and refill the joints properly.

Following these simple steps can help maintain the beauty of your patio without incurring high repair costs. Enjoy your outdoor space and keep it looking its best!

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