WE all love the opportunity to get out and enjoy the summer sun - but after a long old winter it can mean a lot of hard work to get the garden looking presentable.
The patio in particular is an area that can get especially grubby and tired-looking - which isn't ideal for having guests over for barbecues.
Thankfully it doesn't have to be an expensive chore, and there are little tips and tricks to ensure it looks as good as new.
Here, Hudson Lambert, the Patio Cleaning Expert at Roxil, shares their top tips - and what NOT to do, too.
Hudson says: "Anything exposed to the elements is going to start looking tired over time without care, and patios are no different.
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"However many people don’t realise that some of the most common ways for cleaning a patio actually damage it in the long term."
Preparation is key
Moss, lichen and algae are a constant battle for most garden owners.
However, you know you’ve got a more serious issue when dreaded black spots appear.
These little black spots are nearly impossible to remove once they have appeared because they actually take root in the pores of the patio flagstones.
Firstly, make sure you prepare your surface.
Before applying any cleaning products, the first step is to give your patio a brush as this will help remove away any loose debris before you start applying your cleaning products.
A simple homemade remedy
If you need a quick fix now, a simple 1:1 white vinegar - costing as little as 29p for 500ml from the supermarket - and water solution works as a patio cleaner in a pinch.
Mix as much as you need in a large bucket and pour the solution over the patio.
Leave for around an hour to let the vinegar work, then scrub away the grime with a bristle brush and warm soapy water.
Rinse thoroughly for a visibly clean patio - although any lichen or algae will soon be back if you don't use a biocidal cleaner too.
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Patio products
The best way to resist ingrained dirt and biological growth without causing damage to the surface of the slabs is by using a soft washing patio cleaner.
Biocidal cleaners are the best option here as they not only remove the immediate debris, but will kill biological growth without damaging the stonework.
Patience is a virtue
Also remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day - your patio won’t be cleaned in 10 minutes.
Check the instructions of your chosen product to determine how long it needs to be applied for.
For the Roxil Wood & Patio Cleaner, for instance, Hudson recommends leaving it up to 24 hours for the best results.
This also means planning ahead and checking the weather, so it will have time to work its magic before any rain washes it away.
Waterproof the surface
Make your life easier next year by waterproofing your patio.
Moss, algae and black spots all need moisture to grow, and it’s a simple step to maintain your patio in the long run.
Check your patio is entirely dry, then apply small amounts of a protective sealer directly onto the patio.
And while at the end of the cleaning process, waterproofing is also my top piece of advice when laying a patio for a smarter patio with less maintenance.
Under pressure
Don't use a pressure washer – while a pressure washer will allow you to blast away at your patio slabs and it can be rewarding to watch the dirt come away, it isn’t able to completely remove black spot lichen.
And to make matters worse, when done regularly, it will damage the surface of the patio.
It will blow out pointing and disperse jointing sand, which can lead to more moisture between the paving, which invites penetrating moss, and lichen and weeds.
DON’T use bleach
Bleach is another commonly recommended cleaner.
But strong acid or bleach-based cleaners can damage and discolour the patio surface.
Over time, this can result in greater water ingress, which again invites moss and other biological growth, and can also discolour or ruin the finish of your patio stones or pavers.
And of course, if you have flower beds, a lawn, or plants, run-off also presents a risk as it is so harmful to your garden – even when diluted.
Safety first
If you decide to use any cleaning products on your patio, make sure to wear gloves to protect the skin on your hands.
Follow any instructions relating to the safe handling of the product.
Even if you’re not using bleach-based products, this saves the risk of any irritation as you apply the product.
