Terraces & Paving
Restoring the visual depth and performance of residential hardscapes.
The Importance of Surface Care
High-specification landscaping, whether Natural Stone, Porcelain, or Block Paving, is chosen for its texture and aesthetic appeal. However, constant exposure to the elements inevitably impacts the finish.
For the homeowner, the accumulation of moss and algae is not merely a visual blemish; it compromises the usability of the space. As organic biofilms colonise the surface texture, they create a microscopic lubricating layer when wet. This significantly reduces the natural slip resistance of the paving, altering the safety profile of your terrace or driveway.
Understanding "Black Spot"
Beyond the issue of traction, the most persistent challenge for natural stone is Black Spot Lichen. Unlike surface moss, lichen is a composite organism that anchors itself deep within the capillaries of the stone using root-like structures called hyphae.
Because these roots penetrate the mineral substrate, standard cleaning methods often fall short. Conventional pressure washing may shear the "head" off the lichen, but leaves the root system intact, leading to rapid regrowth.
Our Approach: Calibrated Mechanics & Chemistry
We do not believe in a generic "high-pressure" approach. We view pressure washing as a precision tool, to be adjusted according to the specific geology of the material we are treating.
Calibrated Pressure Washing We tailor our equipment setup to the substrate to ensure an effective clean without surface damage:
Variable Fan Nozzles: On softer natural stones, we adjust the angle of the water spray to widen the fan. This reduces the impact pressure, allowing us to rinse away surface grime without pitting the stone or disturbing the pointing.
Flat Surface Cleaners: For robust surfaces like block paving and concrete, we utilise rotary surface cleaners. These ensure a uniform, streak-free finish and contain the spray to protect surrounding areas.
Turbo Nozzles: For resilient zones, such as cobbles or heavily weeded crevices, we employ rotating turbo nozzles to extract stubborn dirt and weeds out of the joints.
Chemical Restoration Where water reaches its limit, chemistry takes over. We apply specialist solutions designed to permeate the porous surface of the paving. This process targets the biological growth at the root level—specifically Black Spot—ensuring the infection is terminated rather than just washed over.
Sealing & Protection Once the paving is chemically clean and dry, we recommend the application of a breathable sealant.
Longevity: Sealing creates a protective barrier that prevents dirt, oil, and organic spores from penetrating deep into the pores, keeping the surface cleaner for longer.
Aesthetic Enhancement: High-quality sealants can enrich the natural tones of the stone, subtly recovering the colour depth that fades with weathering.
Key Standards
Traction Recovery: We focus on removing the biofilm layer to restore the natural friction of the stone, improving traction and mitigating slip hazards.
Black Spot Elimination: Deep-cleaning protocols designed to chemically terminate lichen infestations that standard pressure washing cannot remove.
Substrate Specificity: Constant adjustment of nozzle geometry and pressure flow to suit the specific requirements of the surface material.
Defensive Sealing: The option to lock in the clean, stabilising the jointing sand (in block paving) and repelling future contaminants.