Cost Guide

How Much Does Patio and Driveway Power Washing Cost?

The area is the starting point. The surface type and whether it needs re-sanding afterwards are what actually vary.

Updated 1 September 2026J Lamb Tree Surgery

The Short Answer

Power washing is quoted on area, surface type and how heavily soiled it is. Block paving costs more than a plain concrete slab area of the same size, because it needs re-sanding afterwards.

We do not publish fixed prices for this work, because the honest answer is that it varies more than a price list would suggest. What we can do is explain exactly what moves the number, so that when you call for a free quotation you already know what we will be asking about.

What Affects the Price

1. Area

The basic measure. Larger areas usually cost less per square metre because set-up and equipment time is spread further — the same reason that applies to most outdoor work.

2. Surface type

SurfaceConsideration
Concrete slabs / flagsStraightforward. The most economical to clean
Block pavingNeeds re-sanding afterwards — this is an additional stage
Natural stoneGentler pressure; softer stone needs care
Imprinted concreteCare needed to avoid stripping the sealant
DeckingLow pressure, wider fan; easily damaged
Brick and renderDepends heavily on age and condition of the mortar
TarmacGenerally should not be pressure washed

3. How dirty it actually is

4. Re-sanding

This is the stage most often left out of a cheap quote. Washing block paving removes the kiln-dried sand from between the blocks. Without replacing it, the blocks lose their interlock and gradually work loose. If you are comparing quotes on block paving, ask each one directly whether re-sanding is included — it is frequently the whole difference.

5. Access and water

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Optional Extras Worth Considering

What Power Washing Will Not Fix

Worth being clear about, because it manages expectations before rather than after.

A clean patio sometimes reveals that the pointing has failed. That is not the washing causing damage — it is the dirt no longer hiding it.

How Often Is It Worth Doing?

See Our Power Washing Service →

FAQs

Power Washing Cost FAQs

How much does power washing cost?

It is quoted on area, surface type and how heavily soiled the surface is. Block paving costs more than plain slabs of the same size because it needs re-sanding afterwards.

Why does block paving cost more to clean?

Because washing removes the kiln-dried sand between the blocks, which has to be replaced or the paving works loose. It is an extra stage and it is not optional.

Is re-sanding always included?

It should be, on block paving. It is the stage most often left out of a cheap quote, so ask directly when comparing prices.

Will power washing remove oil stains?

Sometimes only partially. Oil that has soaked deep into porous concrete may lighten rather than disappear completely.

Can tarmac be power washed?

Generally not at high pressure — it can lift and damage the surface. Tarmac is better cleaned by gentler methods.

Do you need an outside tap?

It helps considerably. Power washing uses a lot of water, and where there is no supply it has to be brought, which affects the job.

How often should a patio be power washed?

Every one to two years suits most surfaces. Shaded, north-facing and tree-covered areas green up faster and may need doing annually.

Will cleaning damage my patio?

Not when the pressure is matched to the material. Older, softer stone and worn mortar need lower pressure, and some surfaces are better cleaned by other means.

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