Patio Cleaning Cost UK: What’s Included and What Affects the Price
Get a few quotes for patio cleaning and the numbers can vary more than seems reasonable for what looks like the same job. That gap usually comes down to two things: what method is being used, and what’s actually included in the price. A quote that only covers a quick surface rinse will always look cheaper than one that includes proper moss and algae treatment right up until the patio looks tired again a few months later. Before you book anyone, it helps to know what patio cleaning should realistically cost in the UK, and exactly what should be covered for that price.
How Much Does Patio Cleaning Cost in the UK?
Most professional patio cleaning is priced per square metre, with the surface material being the biggest factor in the rate. As a general UK guide:
| Patio surface | Typical cost per m² | Average cost, 20m² patio |
| Concrete Slabs | £3–£5 | £60–£100 |
| Block Paving | £3.50–£5.25 | £70–£105 |
| Natural Stone (Sandstone, Limestone) |
£5–£8 | £100–£160 |
| Cleaning + Re-Sanding + Sealing | £8–£12 | £160–£240 |
Most jobs also carry a minimum call-out charge, typically based on a 20–30m² minimum, so a very small patio may cost more per square metre than a large one. Natural stone costs more to clean than concrete or block paving because it needs lower pressure and specialist treatment to avoid surface damage the same principle that applies to delicate driveway surfaces.
What’s Included in a Standard Patio Cleaning Quote
A properly itemised quote should make clear that the following are part of the base job, not extras added later:
- A full jet wash or pressure clean across the patio surface, at a pressure suited to the material
- Pre-treatment for moss, algae, and general grime before the main clean
- Removal of loose debris and vegetation from joints and edges
- A visual check for cracked, loose, or unstable slabs
- Guidance on whether patio sealing is worth adding, based on the condition of your surface
What’s Usually Charged as an Extra
These additions are common and legitimate the issue is only when they’re missing from a quote and appear as a surprise on the day:
| Extra | Typical cost | When you’ll need it |
| Black Spot / Lichen Treatment | £100–£175 | Stubborn dark staining that a standard wash won’t lift |
| Re-Sanding Joints | £90–£150 | Block paving where jointing sand has washed or blown out |
| Sealing | £150–£250 | To protect the surface and slow down regrowth after cleaning |
| Oil Stain Treatment | Priced on inspection | Where oil or grease has penetrated a porous surface
|
What Affects the Final Price
Beyond the surface material itself, a handful of factors move the price up or down within these ranges:
- Patio size larger areas typically get a better rate per square metre than very small jobs
- Condition heavy moss, algae, or years of neglect take longer to treat than a lightly soiled surface
- Access patios behind narrow side gates or up steps take longer to reach and work on
- Joint condition block paving with failing or overgrown joints often needs re-sanding as part of a proper job
- Whether you’re combining the job with other work, such as driveway cleaning and sealing, which can bring the overall cost per square metre down
Is DIY patio cleaning cheaper?
Hiring a domestic pressure washer costs roughly £50–£80 for a day, before chemicals. It can handle a light surface clean, but incorrect pressure on natural stone or block paving joints is one of the most common causes of costly damage and DIY results typically don’t last as long as a professional clean with proper pre-treatment.
Which Method Is Right for Your Patio?
| Method | Best for | Note |
| Standard Pressure Washing | Concrete, block paving | Fast and effective on durable, non-porous surfaces |
| Low-Pressure / Softwashing | Natural stone, older or worn slabs | Gentler on delicate surfaces, reduces risk of damage |
| Jet Washing with Biocide | Heavy moss, algae, black spot | Treats the cause, not just the visible growth |
A quick note on packages
If you’re planning to clean and protect more than one surface patio, driveway, or roof it’s often more cost-effective to book them together. See our cleaning and sealing packages for combined pricing rather than booking each surface separately.
Get a clear, itemised patio cleaning quote
A&R offers professional patio cleaning services across UK, with clear, itemised pricing and no surprise extras. Get a free, no-obligation quote and we’ll tell you exactly what your patio needs.
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