Concrete Patio Cleaning in New Orleans, LA

Concrete is a porous material, meaning it absorbs water instead of shedding it. In New Orleans’ humid subtropical climate, moisture is almost always present. Even when rain stops, humidity levels remain high, preventing concrete from drying completely. This constant dampness creates the perfect environment for algae and mildew to grow year-round.

Frequent storms add to the problem. Heavy rainfall washes organic material onto patio surfaces, including pollen, soil, and decaying plant matter. Once absorbed into the concrete, these materials become nutrients for algae and mold. Patios located in low-lying areas or yards with poor drainage are especially vulnerable.

Shade plays a major role as well. Trees, fences, neighboring buildings, and covered patios limit sunlight and airflow. Without direct sun, evaporation slows dramatically, allowing moisture to linger. These shaded areas are often where algae and mildew appear first and return the fastest after cleaning.

• High humidity prevents concrete from fully drying
• Frequent rain keeps surfaces damp for long periods
• Shade from trees and buildings slows evaporation
• Poor drainage and puddling encourage regrowth
• Warm temperatures support year-round organic growth

In New Orleans, simply blasting a patio with high-pressure water may make it look clean temporarily, but it rarely addresses the root cause of algae and mildew. High pressure alone often removes surface growth without killing spores embedded in the concrete, allowing stains to return quickly. In some cases, excessive pressure can damage the surface, opening pores wider and accelerating future buildup.

The most effective cleaning method focuses on treating organic growth before rinsing. Specialized cleaning solutions are applied to break down algae, mold, and mildew and neutralize spores within the concrete pores. Allowing proper dwell time is critical, as it gives the treatment time to work beneath the surface instead of just washing away visible discoloration.

After treatment, the patio is rinsed using controlled pressure. This step removes loosened growth, dirt, and residue without etching or scarring the concrete. Proper technique ensures even results and avoids striping, which can occur when pressure is applied unevenly.

Many New Orleans patios benefit from a combined or hybrid method. Organic growth is treated first using a soft washing approach, followed by a controlled rinse to lift grime and residue. This balanced process delivers deeper, longer-lasting results while minimizing surface damage.

While no patio in New Orleans stays clean forever, certain steps can help extend results. Improving drainage so water does not pool on the surface is one of the most effective measures. Clearing debris regularly and trimming vegetation can also improve airflow and sunlight exposure.

Adjusting sprinklers to prevent overspray helps keep concrete drier between cleanings. In some cases, sealing the concrete after cleaning can provide additional protection. Sealers reduce moisture absorption, making it harder for algae and mildew to establish themselves.

Routine maintenance is especially important in humid environments. Allowing algae and mildew to build up for long periods often leads to deeper staining, increased slip hazards, and more aggressive cleaning requirements later on.

The cost of concrete patio cleaning in New Orleans depends on several factors, including patio size, layout, accessibility, and the severity of staining. Patios with heavy tree coverage, persistent algae growth, or poor drainage often require more thorough treatment and may need service more frequently.

Regular maintenance cleanings are typically more cost-effective than restoring a patio that has been neglected for multiple seasons. Staying on a routine helps preserve the concrete surface, improves safety, and reduces long-term wear caused by constant moisture exposure.