Brick patios are arguably one of the best areas of your house. You can bask in the sun, enjoy a meal, kick back, relax, and have a drink with friends.
However, that’s only enjoyable if the patio is covered in dirt, debris, and organic matter.
In this article, we’ll tackle how to clean a brick patio, go over some safety considerations, and answer a few frequently asked questions.
Let’s get started!
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Hey there, I’m Cody.
A decade of residential and commercial pressure washing led me to start JCS Refresh. Now I can share my knowledge with folks like you.
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Quick Answer
If you like to skim-read (like us), here’s a snapshot of the steps.
How to clean a brick patio with a pressure washer
- Wear appropriate clothing
- Prepare the area
- Apply a cleaning solution
- Utilize the proper nozzle and PSI setting
- Start pressure washing
How to clean a brick patio without a pressure washer
- Apply a cleaning solution
- Let the solution sit for a few minutes
- Scrub the area thoroughly with a stiff-bristle brush
- Rinse the surface carefully
Quick questions before starting
Let’s answer some quick questions before discussing our main topic:
How difficult is this to do?
Cleaning a brick patio is easy, depending on the size and method.
How long does it take?
Depending on various factors, such as the size and the extent of dirt, two to three hours for a 1,500 to 2,000 sq. ft. patio is average.
How to clean brick pavers
Now for an in-depth explanation.
The steps below are specific for cleaning a brick patio with a pressure washer:
1. Wear appropriate safety clothing
Every time you use a pressure washer, proper clothing is a must. At a minimum, wear eye and ear protection.
2. Prepare the area
Remove any unnecessary (and fragile) objects around.
Cover doors or windows with a drop cloth to shield them from water, soaps, or chemicals. Additionally, clear any debris that might obstruct your path.
3. Apply a cleaning solution
This section can vary depending on the condition of your patio and the issues you want to tackle.
While pressure washers can tackle moss, dirt, mold, and other organic matter, it’s best to pick a solution tailored to the situation.
We recommend using an eco-friendly cleaning detergent for brick pavers. Vinegar solution, on the other hand, kills moss and mildew.
Alternatively, you can use oxygen bleach, an excellent alternative to harsh bleach.
4. Utilize the appropriate nozzle and PSI setting
Use a PSI setting between 800 to 1,000; anything more than that can damage the brick.
As far as nozzles go, use a 40-degree or 25-degree tip.
5. Start pressure washing
Use a careful sweeping motion when pressure washing to avoid streaks and clean evenly.
WAIT – here are a few good reads to expand on this topic.
How to clean a brick patio without a pressure washer
If you don’t have a pressure washer, don’t worry; we have your back.
However, fair warning that this method is more time-consuming.
Here are the steps to cleaning a brick patio without a pressure washer:
1. Apply a cleaning solution
You can apply oxygen bleach, borax, or vinegar solution. Alternatively, you can use bleach, but be mindful of its harsh effects.
2. Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes, depending on the level of filth.
3. Scrub the area thoroughly with a stiff-bristle brush
4. Rinse the surface carefully and reassess as needed
Frequently asked questions
Here’s a related question we thought you might find interesting:
How do I remove oil stains from brick pavers?
To remove oil stains from brick pavers, just apply liquid dish soap or a laundry detergent and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
Then, carefully scrub it with a nylon bristle brush and rinse it with hot water. Repeat the process as needed.
Conclusion
Cleaning your brick patio is easier than you think.
After following the steps mentioned above, you’ll have a fresh patio in only a few hours.
However, if your patio has stains or contaminants that are hard to arrest, we suggest contacting a local expert to assess the situation.
We hope this guide has served you well! Thanks for reading!
