How Do I Maintain My Patio And Garden Path?

Once your patio and garden path are professionally installed, the key to preserving their beauty and longevity is regular maintenance. Whether you've opted for block paving, sandstone, resin-bound, or porcelain, caring for your outdoor surfaces doesn't have to be time-consuming or expensive. In this guide, Driveways Durham shares expert tips on how to maintain your patio and garden path all year round.

 1. Keep Surfaces Clean with Regular Sweeping

Over time, leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate, especially during autumn and winter. Regular sweeping:

Prevents organic build-up that can stain surfaces
Reduces slip hazards
Deters weed growth and moss
Using a stiff-bristled outdoor broom once a week is usually enough to keep your patio and path looking fresh.

 2. Power Washing for a Deeper Clean

When general sweeping isn't enough, power washing helps lift stubborn grime and algae from hard surfaces like:

Indian sandstone
Block paving
Concrete slabs
Be cautious with softer or sealed surfaces, such as resin-bound and porcelain, as too much pressure can cause damage. At Driveways Durham, we recommend hiring professionals if you're unsure of the appropriate pressure settings for your materials.

 3. Treat Weeds and Moss Promptly

Weeds between paving joints or gravel can quickly make your garden look untidy. Here's how to control them:

Use a manual weed puller or scraper tool
Apply a pet-safe weed killer during dry weather
Install a geotextile membrane during installation (which we always advise at Driveways Durham)
For moss and algae, especially on north-facing patios, apply a biodegradable patio cleaner in spring and autumn.

 4. Resealing and Repointing When Needed

Over time, pointing (the jointing material between slabs or blocks) can wear away or crack. This can:

Let weeds grow
Encourage water ingress
Diminish the look of your patio
Resealing stone or concrete surfaces every 2–3 years also helps protect them from stains and water damage. Our team at Driveways Durham offers repointing and sealing services for long-term durability.

 5. Maintain Drainage to Prevent Water Pooling

Blocked drainage or poorly sloped paths can lead to standing water, which wears down surfaces and encourages moss:

Keep guttering and nearby drains clear
Check that water runs off evenly during heavy rain
Address pooling early with professional re-levelling or added drainage if necessary
We design every patio and path at Driveways Durham with proper drainage in mind to avoid these issues from the start.

 6. Handle Seasonal Maintenance

Each season brings different challenges:

Spring – Remove winter debris, clean surfaces, and check for frost damage
Summer – Watch for fading or drying, especially on concrete or sandstone
Autumn – Clear leaves regularly to prevent staining
Winter – Avoid using rock salt (which can damage some materials) and use a plastic shovel instead of metal to clear snow
By staying ahead of seasonal changes, you'll protect your patio and path year-round.

 7. Don’t Ignore Small Repairs

Small cracks, loose blocks, or discoloured patches may seem minor—but they often signal early signs of wear. Timely maintenance can:

Prevent costly repairs later
Keep your garden area safe and trip-free
Maintain property value
At Driveways Durham, we’re happy to inspect your patio or path and advise on any repairs or cleaning needs.

 
Extend the Life of Your Patio with Professional Support
Whether you’ve had your patio for years or it’s just been installed, maintaining it properly will keep it looking fantastic and performing well for decades. From occasional deep cleaning to minor repairs and seasonal advice, Driveways Durham is here to help you protect your investment.