Concrete Patio Cleaning Faqs

Yes, but it’s easy to damage concrete if you use too much pressure or hold the tip too close. Use a wider spray angle (like 25° or 40°), keep the wand moving, and don’t “etch” the surface by lingering in one spot.

If your concrete is older, cracked, spalling, or already soft, consider a gentler approach (soft washing) or hire a pro.

Pressure washing relies on high water pressure to remove dirt quickly. It works well for heavy surface grime, but it can damage concrete if done wrong.

Soft washing uses lower pressure and relies more on cleaning solutions to break down mildew, algae, and organic stains. It’s often safer for older concrete and for areas with recurring green/black growth.

If your main problem is algae or mildew, soft washing is usually the better first move.

Light maintenance (sweeping and rinsing) as needed, and a deep clean once or twice per year for most homes. If your patio stays shaded or you live in a humid area, you may need a deep clean more often because algae grows faster.

Green and black staining is usually algae, mildew, or mold fueled by moisture + shade. If the patio doesn’t dry quickly, the growth returns.

• Fix drainage and stop puddling
• Adjust sprinklers that hit the patio
• Trim plants that block sunlight and airflow
• Use a cleaner that targets organic growth, not just water pressure

Oil is tricky because it soaks into porous concrete. The best approach is:

• Absorb fresh spills quickly (cat litter or an absorbent powder)
• Use a degreaser made for concrete
• For older stains, use a poultice-style treatment that pulls oil out of the pores

Expect stubborn stains to take more than one round. “One-and-done” results are rare for deep oil.

Bleach can lighten some organic staining, but it isn’t always the best choice. It can harm nearby plants, irritate skin/eyes, and may not penetrate deeply enough to fully eliminate recurring growth.

If you use bleach, dilute it properly, protect landscaping, avoid mixing with other chemicals, and rinse thoroughly. Many homeowners prefer a concrete-safe cleaner designed for algae/mildew.

Yes. Too much pressure (or the wrong nozzle) can cause:

• Etching lines that look like “tiger stripes”
• Surface pitting or roughness
• Flaking/spalling on weaker or older slabs

A pro uses the right combination of pressure, nozzle angle, distance, and cleaner, instead of brute force.

If your patio is older, cracked, or already flaking, start with the gentlest method:

• Low pressure rinse
• Cleaner-driven soft washing for organic growth
• Spot treatment for stains rather than blasting the entire surface

Aggressive pressure washing can make weak concrete worse.

Most patios can be cleaned in 1–3 hours, depending on size, stain severity, and setup. Stubborn stains (oil, rust) can take longer due to dwell time and repeat treatments.

Pricing depends on patio size, accessibility, local rates, and stain severity. Heavy algae, oil, or rust staining often costs more than a light rinse.

The fastest way to get accurate pricing is to request a quote based on your zip code and patio needs.

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Sealing can help reduce staining and make future cleaning easier. It can also enhance appearance, depending on the sealer type (penetrating vs. film-forming).

Important: concrete should be fully dry before sealing. Also, some sealers can make surfaces slick when wet. Choose a sealer designed for outdoor concrete and follow instructions carefully.

You can usually walk on it once it’s dry. Dry time depends on sun, airflow, humidity, and how much water was used. In good conditions it may dry in a few hours; in shade or humid weather it can take longer.

Rust stains can often be improved with a rust remover made for concrete. The key is using the right product and rinsing thoroughly. Some rust stains are deep and may require repeat treatments.

If rust keeps returning, check the source: metal furniture, fertilizer, sprinklers with high iron, or metal fixtures.

Spring and fall are popular because temperatures are mild and patios see more use. That said, you can clean any time the weather is safe and above freezing.

Avoid cleaning during freezing conditions or when surfaces may refreeze.

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