Your driveway takes a beating that most people underestimate. It's exposed to engine oil drips, tyre rubber, exhaust residue, bird mess, leaf tannins, winter salt, and a near-constant battle against moss, algae, and lichen in the South East's damp climate. The hosepipe and a brush aren't enough. Here's what actually works.
Why your driveway gets dirty faster than you think
The South East's wet winters and mild temperatures create near-perfect conditions for biological growth. Moss spores land on porous surfaces like block paving, tarmac, and concrete and take hold within weeks. Algae follows. Once established, both retain moisture, which accelerates the breakdown of the surface beneath. The result is a driveway that looks older than it is, feels slippery underfoot, and is actively being damaged below the surface.
What most homeowners try: and why it doesn't work
The usual approach is a consumer pressure washer, a patio cleaner from the DIY store, and an afternoon. The problem is twofold. First, domestic pressure washers typically operate at 100–130 bar, enough to disturb loose debris but not enough to lift embedded organic growth from the surface. Second, most retail cleaning products don't address the root problem. They remove the visible growth but don't kill the spores, so the moss and algae return within months.
What professional cleaning actually does differently
Professional exterior cleaning uses commercial-grade equipment operating at significantly higher pressure, combined with pre-treatment biocides that kill organic growth at the root. For softer surfaces like roof tiles and some types of block paving, a soft wash approach uses lower pressure and a longer biocide dwell time to lift growth without surface damage. The result lasts years, not months.
How long does a professional driveway clean take?
Most residential driveways take between two and four hours. A standard single or double driveway (up to around 50m²) is typically done in half a day. Larger drives, block paving with significant biological growth, or driveways that include a patio or path take longer, usually a full day. At Raw Power, we'll give you an accurate time estimate when we quote, so there are no surprises.
What to expect on the day
- We arrive at the confirmed time. No vague windows
- The surface is pre-treated with a biocide where appropriate
- Pressure washing removes all growth, staining, and debris
- Joints are checked and re-sanded if block paving requires it
- Your garden, planting, and property are left clean and tidy
How often should you have your driveway cleaned?
For most South East properties, once every two to three years is sufficient when combined with a post-clean biocide treatment. Properties with significant tree cover or shade, where surfaces stay damp, may benefit from annual attention. Left much longer than three years without treatment, the growth becomes significantly harder to remove and the surface may show early signs of damage.
If your driveway is due a proper clean, see our driveway and patio cleaning service. Fixed price, fully insured, covering Kent, Sussex and Surrey.