Your driveway is one of the first things people see when they arrive at your property. A clean, well-maintained driveway can give a great first impression, while a stained or weed-ridden one can have the opposite effect. But a tired-looking driveway isn’t just about aesthetics; it can also pose safety risks and even lead to long-term damage.
So, how do you know when it’s time to book a professional driveway clean? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the five most common signs that your driveway needs attention.
1. Moss and Algae Build-Up
A frequent problem in the UK’s damp climate, moss and algae love shady, moist spots, making driveways a perfect environment for growth. These green invaders can start as small patches but quickly spread, especially on block paving or natural stone.
Aside from making your driveway look untidy, moss and algae can create a dangerously slippery surface. They also trap moisture against the surface, which can gradually weaken the material underneath. If left untreated, the problem only gets worse, especially in winter when the freeze-thaw cycle can cause cracks and surface erosion.
Professional driveway cleaning goes beyond surface removal. At Servos, we use specialist softwashing treatments that not only eliminate visible moss and algae but also kill off the root systems to prevent regrowth. This approach ensures a much longer-lasting result than DIY methods.
2. Stubborn Oil and Grease Stains
Driveways naturally collect oil, brake fluid, fuel, and other vehicle-related substances. If you’ve spotted dark patches that won’t wash away with normal cleaning, they’re likely oil or grease stains embedded into the surface.
These aren’t just an eyesore; they can degrade the driveway surface over time and reduce its lifespan. They also create a slick surface that can be dangerous, particularly during rainy weather.
While shop-bought degreasers may help a little, they’re rarely effective on deep-set stains. Our professional cleaning service uses powerful yet surface-safe degreasers and hot water pressure systems to break down oil and remove it completely. Whether your driveway is tarmac, concrete, or resin-bound, we tailor our approach to suit the material and type of stain.
3. Faded or Weathered Appearance
Over the years, your driveway will naturally lose its original colour due to sun exposure, air pollution, and grime build-up. If your once vibrant block paving now looks dull or grey, or if stamped concrete has lost its definition, it’s a strong indicator that your driveway needs cleaning and care.
Fading doesn’t just affect how your driveway looks. It often signals the breakdown of any sealants or protective coatings, which means the surface is now more vulnerable to water damage, staining, and algae growth.
After a deep clean, we can also offer resealing services to restore colour and protect the surface from further deterioration. This can make an enormous difference in both appearance and durability, giving your driveway a new lease of life.
4. Slippery or Uneven Surfaces
Slipperiness is a common and dangerous issue, particularly for households with children, pets, or elderly visitors. It’s often caused by compacted dirt, algae, or moss creating a film over the surface. Some driveway materials, such as natural stone or polished concrete—are already smooth and can become treacherous when wet and dirty.
An uneven surface can also signal deeper problems, such as weeds or roots pushing up blocks or slabs, or drainage issues causing areas to sink. In both cases, this creates trip hazards and a generally less functional space.
Our cleaning team doesn’t just remove surface grime, we assess the condition of your driveway and advise on any repair needs. After cleaning, your surface will not only look better, it will be safer too.
5. Weeds Growing Between Blocks or Cracks
Few things make a driveway look more neglected than weeds growing between the paving stones. It’s not just a cosmetic issue either, weed roots can dislodge paving and open up gaps where moisture can get in, leading to long-term structural damage.
These gaps can also collect debris, creating an ideal environment for moss and more weeds to grow. If you find yourself pulling out the same weeds every few weeks, it’s a sign the problem needs tackling at the source.
We provide deep-cleaning solutions that remove embedded dirt and weeds from the joints of your driveway. For block paving, we can also resand and stabilise the joints to keep everything locked in place. With added weed prevention treatments, you can enjoy a tidy, weed-free driveway for longer.
An Extra Reason: Selling or Renting Your Home
f you’re planning to sell or let your property, cleaning your driveway should be high on the priority list. It plays a major role in kerb appeal and can make or break a viewer’s first impression. A clean, presentable driveway gives off the impression of a well-maintained property, and that can translate into increased interest or even a higher asking price.
Why Choose Servos Exterior Cleaning?
With over 10 years of experience, Servos delivers expert driveway cleaning across North Wales and beyond. Whether you need a one-off clean or a scheduled maintenance service, we have the tools, knowledge, and techniques to restore your driveway’s appearance and safety.
We work with all types of driveways, block paving, resin-bound, concrete, tarmac, and natural stone, providing tailored solutions for each surface. From moss removal to oil stain treatment, from pressure washing to softwashing, we clean driveways thoroughly and with care.
Book Your Driveway Clean Today
Don’t let moss, stains, or fading ruin your driveway’s look and function. Whether it’s been years since the last clean or you’re noticing the early signs, we’re here to help.
Call Servos Exterior Cleaning on 01745 289055 or email clean@servos.co.uk to book your professional driveway clean and restore the entrance to your home.