Ensuring your patio and driveway look their best requires more than just the arrival of a professional cleaning team. A little preparation on your part can make a significant difference in the outcome. Here’s a simple, homeowner-friendly guide to getting your patio and driveway ready for a thorough cleaning.
Clear the Area
Start by removing all furniture, plant pots, vehicles, and any other items from your patio and driveway. This not only makes it easier for the cleaning professionals to work but also protects your belongings from any cleaning solutions or water spray. Ensuring the area is free of obstacles allows for a more comprehensive and effective cleaning.
Sweep Away Loose Debris
Before the cleaning team arrives, grab a broom and sweep away leaves, dirt, and loose debris from the surface of your patio and driveway. This step helps to prevent larger particles from clogging the cleaning equipment and ensures that the focus is on removing ingrained dirt and stains rather than surface debris.
Check for Repairs
Inspect your patio and driveway for any cracks, loose paving stones, or other damage. If you notice any issues, it’s a good idea to address these repairs before the cleaning process. Water pressure from the cleaning can exacerbate existing damage, so ensuring everything is in good condition will lead to a better cleaning result and a longer-lasting finish.
Treat Stubborn Stains
If you are aware of particularly stubborn stains such as oil, grease, or mould, it’s helpful to pre-treat these areas. While professional patio and driveway cleaning services can handle tough stains, applying a gentle, eco-friendly stain remover beforehand can enhance the cleaning process. Be sure to use products that are safe for the type of surface you have and won’t harm nearby plant life.
Protect Your Plants and Lawn
The cleaning solutions and techniques used for patio and driveway cleaning can sometimes affect nearby plant life. Cover your plants, flowers, and edges of your lawn with a waterproof tarp or plastic sheeting to protect them from any overspray or harsh chemicals. This precaution helps maintain the appearance of your garden while they clean the hard surfaces.
Provide Access to Water Supply
Professional cleaners will need access to a water supply for their high-pressure washers. Ensure that your outdoor water tap is working and easily accessible. If you have a hose, connect it to the tap and check for leaks or kinks. This preparation helps the team get started quickly upon their arrival.
Note Specific Concerns
If there are specific areas of your patio or driveway that need special attention, make a note of these. Whether it’s a discoloured patch, a buildup of moss, or a slippery section, informing the cleaning team ahead of time allows them to tailor their approach and bring the right equipment and solutions to address these concerns effectively.
Secure Pets and Inform Neighbours
To ensure the safety and comfort of your pets, keep them indoors or in a secure area away from the cleaning zone. Additionally, it’s courteous to inform your neighbours about the cleaning schedule, especially if the noise from the equipment might be disruptive. This forewarning helps maintain good relations and minimises any inconvenience.
Final Check and Accessibility
Do a final walk-through of the area to be cleaned. Remove any small items you may have missed and check that gates or access points are unlocked or open for the cleaning team. Providing clear and unobstructed access to your patio and driveway ensures that the work can be done efficiently and without delay.
By following these simple steps, you set the stage for a successful patio and driveway cleaning. Not only will this preparation help the professionals achieve the best possible results, but it will also prolong the life and beauty of your outdoor spaces. Get ready to enjoy a rejuvenated, clean, and inviting patio and driveway that enhances the curb appeal of your home.
Written by Tracey Gilbey, Marketing and Admin Coordinator at Art of Clean.
Pease do not hesitate to contact us for advice or information on our carpet and soft furnishing care. You can contact us at: Art of Clean team at 01223 901551 in Cambridge. Our services include Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, oriental and area Rug Cleaning. It also includes Curtain Cleaning, Patio, and Driveway Pressure washing, Leather Cleaning, Stone and Tile Floor Cleaning, and Wood Floor Sanding and Restoration. We also supply new flooring and carpets through our sister company Art of Flooring. Farthings Cambridge provides our Dry-Cleaning service