How to Clean Driveway Bricks

How to Clean Driveway Bricks

Brick driveways are a timeless and elegant feature for any home. They provide strength, durability, and a classic aesthetic that complements both modern and traditional properties. However, with constant exposure to rain, mud, vehicle traffic, and organic growth like moss and algae, even the most well-laid brick driveway can begin to look weathered and unkempt over time.

Maintaining a clean brick driveway not only improves your home’s kerb appeal but also protects your investment for the long term. In this comprehensive guide, Driveways Bournemouth explains how to properly clean brick driveways, from the right tools and cleaning techniques to professional maintenance tips that ensure long-lasting results.

Why Cleaning Brick Driveways Is So Important

Many homeowners underestimate how quickly grime can build up on outdoor brick surfaces. Over the years, pollutants, oil stains, and moisture combine to cause discolouration and surface erosion. Without regular cleaning, this build-up can lead to:

• Moss and algae growth, which make surfaces slippery and unsafe.
• Erosion of jointing sand, weakening the brick structure.
• Permanent staining, especially from oil leaks and tyre marks.
• Reduced kerb appeal, giving your home a neglected appearance.
• Premature wear, shortening the lifespan of your driveway.

In areas like Bournemouth, where the climate is mild but humid, moss and algae growth is particularly common. Regular cleaning helps protect against these issues and keeps your driveway looking as impressive as the day it was laid.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin cleaning, having the right tools and materials ready will make the job far more efficient and effective. You will need:

• A stiff-bristle broom or long-handled brush
• A garden hose with an adjustable nozzle
• A pressure washer (recommended for deep cleaning)
• Bucket and warm water
• Mild detergent or brick cleaner (avoid acidic cleaners)
• Degreaser or oil stain remover
• Moss and algae remover or biodegradable patio cleaner
• Protective gloves and goggles
• Kiln-dried jointing sand for refilling gaps after cleaning
• Driveway sealer (optional but highly recommended)

If you prefer not to invest in equipment, you can hire a pressure washer locally or contact Driveways Bournemouth, who provide professional brick cleaning and sealing services throughout the region.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Brick Driveway

Cleaning your brick driveway doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does require patience and the right approach. Follow these detailed steps for a thorough clean:

Step 1: Preparation and Debris Removal

Start by clearing your driveway completely. Remove vehicles, bins, and any garden furniture to give yourself space to work. Sweep the surface with a stiff broom to remove loose dirt, leaves, and debris.

Check for weeds growing between the bricks. These can be pulled out by hand or treated with a suitable weed killer. Leave the treatment for a few days to ensure all roots are killed before proceeding with the wash.

Step 2: Treating Stains and Organic Growth

Driveways often develop specific problem areas that need extra attention before general cleaning.

For Oil and Grease Stains:

• Apply a high-quality degreaser directly to the affected areas.
• Leave it for 20–30 minutes (or as directed on the product label).
• Scrub vigorously using a stiff brush.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

For Moss, Algae, or Lichen:

• Use a biodegradable moss remover or patio cleaner.
• Alternatively, mix a mild solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
• Apply the solution to the affected area and allow it to soak for around 10 minutes.
• Scrub the area with a brush to loosen the growth, then rinse thoroughly.

Important: Avoid harsh chemicals or acid-based cleaners as these can discolour the brick surface and erode the mortar joints.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning with a Pressure Washer

Once stains have been pre-treated, it’s time to deep clean the surface. A pressure washer is the most effective way to restore brick driveways, but it should be used carefully to avoid damage.

Here’s how to do it properly:

1. Connect your pressure washer and set it to a moderate pressure level (around 1500–2000 PSI).
2. Fit a wide-angle or rotary nozzle, narrow jets can cause etching on the brick surface.
3. Begin at the top of your driveway and work your way down to ensure water and dirt flow away.
4. Hold the nozzle around 20–30 cm from the surface, keeping the spray moving constantly.
5. Clean in overlapping passes for even results.
6. Rinse the entire area thoroughly to remove any remaining detergent or dirt.

If you notice discoloured or uneven sections, you can go over them again once the area dries slightly.

Tip: If your bricks are particularly old or fragile, use a lower pressure setting or consider a soft-washing method to prevent damage.

Step 4: Re-Sanding the Joints

Pressure washing may remove some of the kiln-dried sand between the bricks. These joints are crucial because they provide stability and prevent weed growth.

Once your driveway is completely dry (usually 24–48 hours later), re-sand the joints:

1. Pour kiln-dried sand evenly across the surface.
2. Use a soft brush to sweep the sand into all joints.
3. Continue until all gaps are filled and the surface looks even.
4. Remove any excess sand to avoid streaks or loose debris.

This step reinforces the brickwork and helps maintain a firm, interlocked surface.

Step 5: Apply a Protective Sealant

Applying a driveway sealant is one of the best ways to preserve the results of your cleaning. It forms a protective layer over the bricks that repels water, prevents stains, and discourages moss and algae growth.

Benefits of sealing your brick driveway:

• Enhances colour and restores natural richness.
• Protects against oil, grease, and water stains.
• Reduces weed and moss growth.
• Makes future cleaning much easier.
• Extends the life of your driveway surface.

Always ensure the driveway is completely dry before applying sealer, usually two to three days after cleaning. Apply with a roller or sprayer in thin, even coats, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

For best results, reapply sealant every 2–3 years.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Brick Driveway Clean

Proper maintenance after cleaning will keep your driveway in top condition all year round. Here are some essential care tips from Driveways Bournemouth:

• Sweep weekly: Regular sweeping prevents dirt and leaves from building up.
• Tackle stains quickly: Fresh stains are much easier to remove than old ones.
• Prevent moss and weeds: Apply a moss inhibitor or weed treatment every few months.
• Avoid strong chemicals: Use mild detergents that are safe for brick and mortar.
• Inspect for damage: Check for cracks or loose bricks annually and repair promptly.
• Clean annually: Give your driveway a full deep clean once or twice a year.

Regular upkeep ensures your driveway remains visually appealing, safe, and structurally sound, reducing the need for costly repairs or relaying in the future.

DIY vs. Professional Brick Driveway Cleaning

While DIY cleaning can achieve good results, there are clear benefits to hiring professionals, especially for large or heavily stained driveways.

DIY Cleaning Pros:

• Lower cost if you already have tools.
• You can work at your own pace.

DIY Cleaning Cons:

• Risk of damaging bricks with incorrect pressure or chemicals.
• Less effective for deep stains or algae.
• Time-consuming and physically demanding.

Professional Cleaning Pros (with Driveways Bournemouth):

• Use of commercial-grade pressure and soft-wash systems.
• Expert stain treatment without damaging surfaces.
• Re-sanding and sealing included for lasting protection.
• Quick turnaround with guaranteed results.

At Driveways Bournemouth, our technicians combine high-pressure and soft-washing methods depending on your brick type and condition, ensuring a thorough clean without surface erosion.

Environmental Considerations

As a responsible local company, Driveways Bournemouth takes care to use eco-friendly cleaning products that are biodegradable and safe for pets, plants, and drainage systems.

When cleaning your driveway yourself, remember:

• Avoid allowing dirty runoff to enter public drains.
• Use environmentally safe detergents wherever possible.
• Collect any waste water if using chemical cleaners.
• Dispose of contaminated materials (like oily rags) safely.

This not only protects the environment but also complies with local Bournemouth Council guidelines for water management and environmental protection.

When to Schedule Professional Cleaning

If your driveway has not been cleaned for several years or shows signs of deep staining, discolouration, or heavy moss growth, it’s advisable to schedule a professional cleaning service.

Driveways Bournemouth recommends professional cleaning every 12–18 months for optimal results. We can assess the condition of your bricks, identify issues such as drainage problems or sinking, and restore the surface using advanced pressure-cleaning techniques and high-performance sealants.

Final Thoughts

A clean brick driveway enhances the overall appearance of your property, improves safety, and protects your long-term investment. Whether you choose to clean it yourself or hire experts, regular maintenance will make a noticeable difference in how your home looks and feels.

By following the right cleaning process, from preparation and stain removal to sealing, you can preserve your brick driveway’s strength and beauty for years to come.

If you’d rather save time and ensure the best possible results, trust the experts at Driveways Bournemouth. We provide comprehensive brick driveway cleaning, re-sanding, and sealing services using professional-grade equipment and environmentally safe techniques.