Understanding The Different Surfaces
Driveways and paths can be made from many different materials, and each surface can require a different cleaning approach. We assess the type and condition of the surface before deciding on the most appropriate way to clean it.
Plain Concrete
Plain concrete is one of the most common driveway and path surfaces. It is generally durable and responds well to professional cleaning, although the age and condition of the concrete can affect the final result.
• Dirt, grime and organic growth can usually be significantly reduced.
• Oil, rust and other deeply absorbed stains may not be completely removable.
• Existing cracks, repairs and discolouration may become more noticeable after cleaning.
• Older or deteriorated concrete requires additional care during cleaning.
Coloured or Painted Concrete
Coloured, painted or coated concrete requires additional care because the colour or coating may already be worn, faded or deteriorating before cleaning. The condition of the existing colour or coating will be assessed before cleaning.
• Loose, peeling or deteriorated coatings may be further exposed during cleaning.
• Faded or uneven colour cannot be restored through cleaning alone.
• A gentler cleaning approach may be used where appropriate to help protect the existing surface.
Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate is a durable decorative concrete surface, but its condition can vary depending on its age, sealer and the strength of the surrounding cement.
• Dirt and organic growth can build up around the exposed stones and textured surface.
• Existing loose aggregate or deteriorated areas require additional care.
• Previously applied sealer may be worn, patchy or deteriorated and can affect the final appearance.
• Cleaning can significantly improve the surface, but it will not restore damaged concrete or worn sealer.
Pavers
Paved driveways and paths can clean up extremely well, but the condition of the pavers and the material between the joints needs to be considered during cleaning.
• Dirt, moss, algae and organic growth can build up on the surface and between joints.
• Cleaning may remove or disturb some of the existing jointing sand.
• Loose, cracked or damaged pavers may require additional care.
• Existing stains, fading or discolouration may remain after cleaning.
• Where significant jointing sand is removed, re-sanding may be recommended after the surface has dried.
Natural Stone
Natural stone surfaces can vary considerably in hardness, texture and porosity, so the type and condition of the stone needs to be considered before cleaning.
• Different types of natural stone can respond differently to pressure and cleaning solutions.
• A more cautious cleaning approach may be required on softer or more porous stone.
• Existing staining, weathering and natural colour variations may remain after cleaning.
• Cracked, loose or deteriorated stone and grout may require additional care.
• We assess the surface before deciding on an appropriate cleaning method.
Older and Weathered Surfaces
Older surfaces can still achieve a significant improvement from professional cleaning, but years of weathering, wear and previous treatments can affect the final result.
• Age-related discolouration and permanent staining may remain after cleaning.
• Existing cracks, erosion, worn coatings or previous repairs may become more noticeable.
• Fragile or deteriorated areas may require a gentler cleaning approach.
• Some areas may clean differently due to variations in age, wear and previous treatments.
• We will take the existing condition of the surface into account when determining an appropriate cleaning method.