How to clean your patio after a long winter
You’re all set to start filling your outdoor flowerpots with colourful flowers on the first sunny day in ages. Until you look out of your window and notice that there is a more urgent task at hand: cleaning your patio. But how do you get rid of green algae and other dirt?
Does your patio look awfully green now spring has started? Well, that comes as no surprise after those cold, wet and dark winter months. Winter is tough on every patio. So, before you can get started on those flowerpots, you will first have to get rid of that green algae and dirt.
How to clean your patio efficiently
Bleach is frequently used to get this job done. You need to dilute it with water, after which you can distribute it on your patio with a watering can. While being a very effective method, it is not very environmentally friendly. Additionally, some patio tiles may not be resistant to it.
Another frequently used common item is pure vinegar. But alas, vinegar is harmful to plants as well. Sodium carbonate is healthier for your plats and delivers satisfying cleaning results. You can also use boiling water (+90°C) or a mixture of water, soap and sand to create a sandpaper-like effect. If you’re in no hurry, you can also let your patio soak in soapsuds overnight (attention: slippery) or in saltwater for a few days (attention: discolouring).
Of course you can also run to the shops to buy a patio cleaner that gets rid of green mould and algae. With it, you won’t need to scrub your patio tiles. It works quickly and keeps your patio clean for a long time. But it comes with a higher price tag.
Which is the most efficient solution?
As you can see, there are many different ways to clean your patio. But in the end, nothing can beat the cleaning power of a pressure washer. Provided you use one that is adjusted to your patio. Otherwise your tiles and joints may get damaged, causing green algae to return faster.
The performance of a pressure washer is indicated mostly with its maximum pressure in bar or kPA (0,01bar). At the same time, the flow rate is equally important. The flow rate is the number of litres that flows through the washer in one hour. Domestic models start usually at around 350 litres per hour. The higher the water pressure, the easier dirt is removed. And the higher the flow rate, the faster you’re done. For large patios, a patio cleaner comes in very handy, as it protects you from dirt splatters.
The bigger your patio, the more powerful your pressure washer should be. A powerful tool doesn’t need to be expensive, especially when you choose Powerplus. We offer starter models, as well as high-performance premium models, but always with the best value for money. And most of our pressure washers come with a variety of accessories, like for instance a patio cleaner. Enjoy your spring-cleaning!