Those stubborn black spots on your patio are lichen—tiny colonies anchored deep into stone and concrete. Pressure alone won’t shift them. We deliver professional black‑spot removal in Bristol, using targeted biocidal treatments with controlled soft‑wash / jet washing to restore a clean, brighter finish. Optional sealing helps keep it that way.
What is patio black‑spot—and why won’t it wash off?
Patio “black‑spot” is a crustose lichen. It extends microscopic filaments into the pores of slabs and joints, bonding like super‑glue. Standard jet washing often leaves the dots behind (or risks scarring soft stone). The right approach is to chemically break the bond, allow dwell time, then clean safely at a surface‑appropriate pressure.
Our Bristol black‑spot removal process (safe & effective)
- Assessment & protection — identify your slab/stone (e.g., Indian sandstone, porcelain, limestone, concrete) and protect nearby plants/surfaces.
- Targeted pre‑treatment — apply a professional biocide formulated for lichen/organic growth; ensure even coverage and the correct dwell time.
- Clean at the right pressure — use soft‑wash or controlled jet washing with a rotary surface cleaner; adjust nozzles/technique to protect pointing and edges.
- Detailing — retreat any persistent dots; rinse edges/steps by hand; manage runoff responsibly.
- Optional: Post‑treatment — apply a maintenance biocide to inhibit regrowth where appropriate.
- Optional: Sealing — once fully dry (typically 24–48 hours), apply a suitable patio sealer to protect colour and slow future lichen/algae.
We don’t “blast and hope”. We match chemistry and pressure to your patio so you get a deep clean without damage.
Surfaces we treat (and how we treat them)
Bulleted List
- Indian sandstone / natural stone (limestone, granite, slate): porous; needs the right pre‑treatment and controlled rinse to avoid etching.
- Porcelain slabs: low porosity; black‑spot sits on surface film—use appropriate agents and lower pressures to protect edges and grout lines.
- Concrete flags / pressed slabs: robust, but joints still need care; chemistry first, then even rotary cleaning.
- Block‑paved patios: treat lichens and re‑sand joints after cleaning; sealing available to bind sand and resist stains.
We also remove black‑spot/organic staining on steps, paths and garden walls. (Driveways can be treated too, but this page is focused on patios.)
Why Bristol homeowners choose us for lichen removal
- Proven results on dots others leave behind
- Stone‑specific methods (soft‑wash vs jet washing)
- Optional sealing to protect colour and slow regrowth
- Local, fully insured specialist based in Kingswood (BS15)
- Typically within 30–40 minutes across Bristol (incl. Hanham, Longwell Green, Keynsham, Saltford) and nearby Bath
Sealing after black‑spot removal (optional but recommended)
Once the patio is clean and completely dry, sealing adds a breathable protective layer that helps resist stains, reduce moisture uptake and slow the return of algae/lichen. We’ll assess suitability for your stone and discuss finishes (natural/matt/satin). We use trusted products and follow manufacturer cure times.
- Bulleted List (best candidates for sealing)
- Porous stones (e.g., Indian sandstone, some limestones)
- Shaded/leafy patios prone to green film
- BBQ/entertaining areas where spills happen
- Fresh re‑pointing you want to protect
Local Bristol — patio black‑spot removal & soft‑wash clean study
Local case study Bristol
This is a sandstone patio was peppered with black‑spot and slippery with algae. We pre‑treated the lichen, allowed the correct dwell time, then cleaned with a rotary surface cleaner and low pressure on the edges. Two days later we returned to seal the patio. Result: a brighter, safer surface and colour that looks fresher for longer.
Areas we cover
We’re Bristol‑based (BS15) and typically cover 30–40 minutes: Kingswood, Hanham, Longwell Green, Keynsham, Saltford, wider Bristol and nearby Bath. If you’re close by, just ask.
FAQs — Black‑Spot Removal in Bristol
Will a jet wash remove black‑spot?
Not reliably. Black‑spot roots into the pores. We use a biocidal pre‑treatment with proper dwell time, then clean at the right pressure. That combination removes what plain washing leaves behind.
Is it safe for pets, plants and pointing?
We protect planting, use professional‑grade products responsibly, and rinse thoroughly. Treatments are safe once dry. We tailor pressure to protect pointing and slab edges.
How long will results last?
That depends on shade, moisture and debris. With basic upkeep (and optional maintenance biocide or sealing), patios stay cleaner for much longer.
How much does black‑spot removal cost?
It varies by size, stone and severity. Share your postcode and a couple of photos for a same‑day quote.
Do you treat other surfaces?
Yes — we treat steps, paths and garden walls. We can also address lichen on driveways (see our Driveway Cleaning page).
How much does black‑spot removal cost?
It varies by size, stone and severity. Share your postcode and a couple of photos for a same‑day quote.
Send your postcode, patio size and a couple of photos and we’ll come back to you the same day wherever possible. We’re local, tidy and fully insured.
READY FOR A SAME‑DAY BLACK‑SPOT QUOTE?
Send your postcode and close‑up photos of the spots. Same‑day reply where possible with clear options.
Call / Text / WhatsApp: 07733 191954
Email: info@drivewaypatiocleaningbristol.co.uk
Prefer a visit? We can usually attend within 2–4 working days locally.
Strapline: Proven patio black‑spot removal — biocidal pre‑treatment + correct clean. Safe for stone, fully insured.