Process guide

Biocide treatment: the step that decides how long the clean lasts

Pressure removes what you can see. Biocide deals with what's left behind in the surface.

Moss, algae and lichen are living organisms with root structures that sit inside the pores and joints of a surface. Pressure shears the visible top layer off. It doesn't kill what's below it.

That's the difference between a drive that looks clean for a season and one that still looks clean the following spring.

How it works in practice

  • The surface is pre-wetted or cleaned depending on how thick the growth is.
  • A biocide is applied evenly and left to dwell — this takes time, not force.
  • The organism dies back over the following days and weathers off, or is rinsed as part of the clean.
  • On heavy lichen, a second application is sometimes needed rather than a heavier wash.

Where it makes the biggest difference

  • North-facing patios and shaded side returns that never fully dry out.
  • Under trees and hedges, where leaf litter feeds growth every autumn.
  • Porous stone such as Indian sandstone, where black spot roots deeply.
  • Anywhere water sits because of poor falls or a blocked gully.

How long it holds

Realistically, a treated and re-sanded drive holds its appearance for a couple of years before the next treatment, and a shaded patio somewhat less. Sun, drainage, overhanging planting and how often the surface is swept all move that.

We'd rather give you that range than promise a number we can't stand behind.

Our promise
100% satisfaction — or we re-clean free.

Common questions

Is it safe around plants and pets?
We cover and wet down planting before treating, and we ask that pets and children stay off the treated area until it's dry.
Why can't you just use more pressure?
More pressure damages the surface — it erodes stone, strips imprinted concrete colour and scars decking — without killing the growth.
Does it work in winter?
Yes, though cold slows the die-back. Autumn and spring treatments generally show results fastest.

Something not covered here? Ask us directly — or read the general FAQ.

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