September 14th, 2021 by Sarah Miles

You know the scenario; a bit of rain overnight and you head across the garden to take something out to the bin and the next thing you know, you’re flat on your back due to a slippery patio, drive, or path. Worrying enough for anyone, but especially those who are older or have mobility issues.

Why are patios slippery?

Clearly ice and frost in the winter play a part but the reason hard areas can become almost unusable in the winter, even after just a light shower, is the growth of moss, mould, and algae that are common on stone, concrete, or other hard surfaces outside.

What are mould and algae and how do you know if you have them?

Mould and algae are natural organisms that develop from spores carried on the breeze. They settle on paths and patios and thrive in damp, shaded conditions, attaching themselves to the pores and undulations in the stone. It’s easy to see if you have them as the surface will look green and discoloured. They can also feel quite slimy to the touch when wet (which is what makes them slippery).

5L Pro-Kleen Simply Spray Green Mould and Algae Remover

Price: £16.96

Buy Now

How can you remove mould and algae?

Getting rid of it is a top priority before the winter weather sets in. Not only is it a slip hazard, but it also looks really unsightly and, left unattended, will only get worse so even if you don’t use your garden much over the colder months, it’s worth dealing with and the great thing is, it’s not difficult to do.

Before you reach for the bleach and a scrubbing brush, don’t waste your time (and save your poor hands!). Not only is that hard work, but it’s also not going to be effective either. For this job, you need something more specialised.

Patio cleaner or mould and algae remover?

Both of these products pretty much do the same thing. If you have large areas of mould and algae, we’d suggest using a mould and algae remover, such as Pro-Kleen Simply Spray and Walk Away Green Mould & Algae Remover. If you have some green patches plus lots of other stains and dirt and the area could do with a good deep clean, then use a patio cleaner, such as Pro-Kleen Simply Spray & Walk Away Patio Cleaner, but both will do the job.

5L Pro-Kleen Simply Spray Ready to Use Moss Killer and Algae Remover

Price: £13.99

Buy Now

How to use them

Once you realise how easy these products are to use, you’ll wonder why anyone still has mould and algae! Where you could scrub with bleach or other cleaners all day and not make an impression, these cleaners have active ingredients that break the organisms down and loosen their grip on the stone. It then dies and you can simply sweep it away.

Products may vary slightly so just read the instructions on the label. Some are ready to use, and some require diluting with water. Once ready, simply apply to the surface using a watering can or garden pressure sprayer. Then leave it to work. Some need no further action (the ‘spray and walk away’ products), while some just need rinsing off after a few hours.

After a few days, the mould and algae will die and turn brown. This can now be easily brushed away or may even disperse on its own on the wind.

Top tips: Always use in dry conditions and don’t apply if rain is forecast within the first few hours as this will just dilute it before it’s had the chance to work. Keep children and pets away until it’s dry. As with any chemical product, wear gloves and appropriate footwear/clothes.

Keeping it away?

Another great thing about using specialist products like these is that they prevent re-growth for up to 6 months!