Brick patios add charm and character to any outdoor space, but over time, dirt, moss, mildew, and grime can dull their appearance. While pressure washing is one of the fastest ways to refresh brick surfaces, doing it the wrong way can cause cracks, surface erosion, and permanent damage.
Whether you’re maintaining your patio or preparing it for staining or sealing, here’s a step-by-step guide to pressure-washing brick patios safely and effectively.
1. Inspect Your Brick and Mortar First
Before you bring out the pressure washer, take a few minutes to inspect your patio.
Check for:
- Loose or crumbling mortar
- Chipped or cracked bricks
- Soft or older brickwork (especially in historic homes)
- Weeds or growth between joints
If you spot any issues, repair them before washing. Pressure can worsen existing cracks and cause further displacement.
2. Clear and Prepare the Area
Remove any furniture, planters, or decorations from the patio. Sweep away loose debris like leaves, dirt, and pebbles.
Pro Tip: Cover nearby plants and walls with plastic sheeting to protect them from runoff or backsplash.
3. Use the Right Equipment and Settings
Using too much pressure is the most common mistake when cleaning brick. For older or softer bricks, it can cause irreversible surface damage.
Recommended settings:
- Pressure: 500–1000 PSI for older brick, up to 1500 PSI for newer/hard brick
- Nozzle: Use a 25-degree (green) or 40-degree (white) tip for a wide spray pattern
- Distance: Keep the nozzle at least 12 inches from the brick surface
Never use a zero-degree (red) tip or rotary nozzle on brick; these can easily gouge the surface.
4. Pre-Soak with Water or a Mild Detergent
Before pressure washing, soak the patio with plain water using your washer on a low setting. This helps prevent the detergent from soaking too deeply and loosening the mortar.
If needed, apply a mild patio-safe detergent to help lift algae, mildew, and dirt. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, but do not let it dry on the surface.
Avoid using harsh cleaners like bleach, which can discolor bricks or kill nearby plants.
5. Use Controlled, Even Strokes
Start at the far edge of the patio and move toward the exit to avoid walking on the cleaned area.
Technique tips:
- Hold the wand at a consistent angle (usually 45°)
- Move in smooth, overlapping passes (left to right or up and down)
- Do not hold the nozzle in one spot for more than 1–2 seconds
- Periodically check your progress and adjust the distance as needed
Work in sections if the patio is large to maintain control and thoroughness.
6. Rinse and Neutralize
After cleaning, go over the patio with clean water to rinse away loosened debris and any remaining detergent.
If you used a chemical solution, neutralize the area with a vinegar-and-water rinse (1:4 ratio) or a product recommended by your cleaner manufacturer. This prevents residue from lingering and potentially affecting plants or finishes.
7. Let the Patio Dry Completely
Give the brick at least 24–48 hours to dry, especially if you plan to apply a sealant or stain afterward. Brick is porous and needs time to release moisture after washing.
If rain is in the forecast, postpone any finishing steps until the surface is fully dry.
8. Apply a Sealant (Optional, but Recommended)
To protect your brick patio from future grime, mold, and weathering, consider applying a breathable masonry sealant. It will:
- Repel water
- Reduce moss and algae growth
- Prevent mortar erosion
- Make future cleanings easier
Choose a sealant specifically designed for outdoor brick and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Final Thoughts
Pressure washing is an excellent way to restore the natural beauty of a brick patio, if done carefully. Using the correct pressure settings, nozzles, and technique is key to avoiding surface damage and preserving your patio’s structural integrity.
When in doubt, hiring a professional with experience in cleaning masonry surfaces can save time, money, and effort, especially for older or damaged brickwork.
Your brick patio deserves care and attention. With the right approach, it can look brand new and last for decades.
