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How to get moss and algae off block paving

22 April 2026 · 4 min read

Green moss and black algae growing in the joints of weathered block paving

The most effective way to remove moss and algae from block paving is a professional water-only pressure wash that lifts the growth out of the joints as well as off the surface. Light growth can be tackled yourself, but heavy, established moss almost always needs proper equipment to shift it fully.

Why block paving goes green

Block paving traps moisture, dirt and organic matter down in the joints between the blocks. In shaded, damp or north-facing spots that's the perfect home for moss, weeds and green algae. Over a few seasons it spreads, dulls the colour and makes the surface slippery underfoot.

Doing it yourself

For a light film you can make progress with a stiff brush, a patio-safe cleaner and plenty of elbow grease, or a domestic pressure washer used carefully. Keep the pressure moderate and the nozzle moving - sitting too close or too hard in one spot can scar the blocks and blast out the jointing.

The professional approach

We clean with water alone at a pressure matched to the blocks, working the moss, weeds and algae out of the joints as well as off the tops. No harsh chemicals, so it's safe for your plants, pets and children. The result is an even, deep clean that brings the original colour and pattern back, rather than a patchy surface rinse.

Will it come back?

Nothing keeps moss away forever, but a thorough clean that clears the roots from the joints makes a big difference for a long time. Keeping the surface swept and clear of leaves, and improving drainage or light where you can, all slow the regrowth.

Want a fixed price for yours?

Send a photo of your driveway or patio and your postcode on WhatsApp, and Mark will send you a fixed price the same day.

Common questions

Does pressure washing damage block paving?

Not when it's done properly. We match the pressure to the blocks, so the paving is cleaned thoroughly without being scarred or having the jointing blown out.

Do you use chemicals to kill the moss?

No - we clean with water alone. It lifts the moss, weeds and algae out mechanically without harsh chemicals, so it's safe for your borders, pets and children.

Will the weeds grow straight back?

A proper deep clean lifts the weeds and their roots out of the joints, so it takes a good while for anything to re-establish. Keeping the drive swept helps it stay clear for longer.

Related services

Get your fixed price

Snap a photo. Get a price.

Send two or three photos of the area, your postcode and an approximate size on WhatsApp. Mark reviews the surface and confirms a fixed price before the work begins, usually within the hour. Prefer a chat? Mark answers the phone - the same person who does the job.

Prefer to type it out? Request a quote by form.

Surrey · South London · Sussex · and across the South East

  1. 01

    Snap a photo

    Send two or three photos of the area, plus your postcode and rough size, on WhatsApp.

  2. 02

    Fixed price back

    Mark sends a firm price the same day, usually within the hour. No site visit, no hard sell.

  3. 03

    We clean, you check

    We turn up, do the job properly and tidy up. You see it finished, then pay the same day.

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