Thinking about whether to rent a machine and do it yourself, or hire a professional? Here’s a clear look at the differences.

DIY vs Professional Jet Washing at a Glance

Factor	DIY Jet Washing	Professional Jet Washing
Time	A full weekend for a medium driveway	2–3 hours with commercial kit
Cost	£40–£100 for hire, plus your own labour	£5–£7 per m², done for you
Results	Patchy, limited by machine power	Deep, even, restores original finish
Risk	Can strip jointing sand, damage stone	Operator adjusts pressure to surface
Aftercare	No re-sanding or sealing unless you do it	Can include re-sanding, sealing, biocide

---

The Hidden Costs of DIY

It looks cheaper at first, but factor in:

• Hiring or buying equipment
• Buying sand, sealers, or treatments
• Your time over one or two days
• Risk of damage if the pressure is too high

Advice: If you value your own time at more than £10 per hour, professional cleaning usually works out cheaper overall.

---

Where DIY Makes Sense

• Small areas like a short path or a few slabs
• Light surface dirt without moss or weeds
• When you already own a machine and just need a quick rinse

---

Where Professional Wins

• Large driveways, patios or heavily stained surfaces
• When moss, algae and weeds have taken hold
• If you want it done fast and finished with re-sanding or sealing
• When you want peace of mind there’ll be no damage

---

Final Verdict

DIY is fine for light jobs, but if you want a long-lasting result, the professional route is safer, faster and often cheaper in the long run.

---

FAQs

Is professional jet washing expensive?
Not compared to repairs. A typical driveway clean is £150–£250, less than relaying damaged blocks.

Will a professional clean really last longer?
Yes. The combination of deeper cleaning, correct pressure, and re-sanding means the results hold up for 12 months or more.

Do I need to be home for the clean?
Not always. As long as there’s access to the area and a water supply, many clients don’t need to be present.

Keeping your patio or block paving clean is not just about appearances. Regular jet washing prevents slippery surfaces, stops weeds and moss from taking over, and extends the life of your paving. But how often should you book in a professional clean?

This guide gives you practical advice on frequency, signs to look out for, and how to keep your paving in top condition year-round.

---

What We’ll Cover

• Seasonal Cleaning: When is the Best Time to Jet Wash?
• Signs That Your Patio or Paving Needs Jet Washing
• DIY vs Professional Jet Washing
• How to Maintain Paving Between Cleans
• What Happens If You Don’t Clean Regularly?
• FAQs

---

Seasonal Cleaning: When is the Best Time to Jet Wash?

Most patios and block paving benefit from a thorough clean once a year, ideally in spring or early summer. This clears away moss and dirt from winter and gives you a safe, fresh-looking surface for the months ahead.

Pro Tip: Book your jet wash for spring. Surfaces will dry faster, and you’ll enjoy a cleaner patio for BBQs and summer gatherings.

Recommended frequency:

• Standard household paving: once every 12 months
• Shady, damp gardens: every 6–9 months
• High-traffic driveways: twice a year

---

Signs That Your Patio or Paving Needs Jet Washing

Even if you’re not on a fixed schedule, look for signs that your paving is overdue for a clean.

What to watch for:

• Slippery green patches of algae or moss
• Weeds or grass sprouting between blocks
• A dull, faded look compared to when it was laid
• Water pooling in certain areas

Quick Advice: If you notice moss building up, don’t wait for your annual clean. Book a wash straight away to prevent damage.

---

DIY vs Professional Jet Washing

It’s possible to hire or buy a domestic pressure washer, but results are often limited. Professional jet washing services use commercial-grade equipment that cleans deeper and faster, while also offering extras such as re-sanding block paving joints.

DIY Jet Wash:

• Cheaper in the short term
• Good for small touch-ups
• Risk of uneven cleaning or surface damage

Professional Jet Wash:

• More powerful, faster, longer-lasting results
• Includes proper waste disposal
• Can add re-sanding and sealing for extra protection

Advice: DIY machines are fine for a quick rinse, but for a proper once-a-year clean, go professional.

---

How to Maintain Paving Between Cleans

You don’t need to wait for the next jet wash to keep your paving looking tidy. A few simple habits help extend the results.

Tips for between cleans:

• Sweep weekly to remove leaves and debris
• Pull out weeds as soon as they appear
• Apply a moss killer in shaded areas
• Rinse with a garden hose during dry spells

Reminder: Small, regular upkeep saves money by reducing the need for extra jet washes.

---

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Regularly?

Leaving your paving to deteriorate can cause both cosmetic and structural problems.

Potential issues:

• Slippery surfaces creating safety hazards
• Moss and weeds damaging joints
• Stains from leaves, mud or oil becoming permanent
• Paving sinking or shifting due to blocked drainage

Final Note: Jet washing is a simple investment that prevents costly repairs later.

---

FAQs

How much does jet washing cost?
Most services are priced per square metre, often around £5–£7, depending on extras like re-sanding or sealing.

Do I need to supply water?
We can usually connect to your outdoor tap, but we can bring our own supply if needed.

Will jet washing damage my paving?
Not when done professionally. We adjust pressure to suit the surface type, preventing cracks or erosion.

Can you remove oil stains?
We can usually reduce or remove oil stains, but results depend on how long the stain has been there.