Our custom Perth patios are incredibly durable, high quality, and built to last. But just like the rest of your home, patios need regular maintenance to protect your investment.
Here are our best tips on how to maintain a patio, including cleaning a patio, sealing a patio, seasonal considerations for patio cleaning, and knowing when to hire a professional.
Assessing Patio Before Maintenance
What Happens if a Patio is Not Maintained?
You may be able to sneak by without paying attention to your patio for a year or two. However, the constant exposure to moisture, dust, and the elements will start to cause issues if you ignore patio maintenance.
This is especially true in areas near the coast, where the high concentration of salt in the air can cause rust. When a sea breeze blows in, the salt in the moist air sticks to built-up dust and grime on steel surfaces. This mix of grime, salt, and dirt corrodes the steel and leads to rust.
Identifying and repairing problems right away can prevent a minor issue from turning into a costly, extensive problem.
Along with the formation of rust, here are other risks of not maintaining your patio:
- Mould and mildew growth
- Cracks in the foundation
- Rotted wood
- Roof or gutter damage
- Insect damage
- Reduced lifespan
- Structural damage
- Safety concerns
How to Assess Patio State and Find What Issue Needs Fixing
At least twice a year, give your patio a good assessment. Check your patio for:
- Cracks in the slab or broken pavers
- Roofing damage
- Chipping or peeling paint
- Insect damage
- Mould
- Rust
- Structural concerns
If you notice issues, make a plan to address them right away. Most aesthetic issues, such as peeling paint, maybe something you can tackle yourself. If you notice foundation or structural issues or insect infestation, we recommend calling a professional.
Tackling issues right away can maximise your patio’s lifespan, keep your outdoor space functional and enjoyable, and prevent major repairs or safety issues.
Seasonal Considerations with Patio Maintenance
Spring is considered the gold standard of deep cleaning, but it’s important to stay on top of patio maintenance throughout the year. With Perth’s distinct seasons, unique considerations depend on the time of year.
For instance, spring and autumn are important times to check your gutters for debris and make sure they are clear before summer rains or winter storms. During bushfire season, make sure your patio is always clear of flammable debris, such as leaves or sticks.
In spring and summer, you’ll want to regularly weed around your patio to keep it looking manicured and inviting. Be careful with the weedkiller you choose as some types may stain pavers. We prefer pulling weeds by hand as it protects the pavers from staining and is better for the environment.
Should I Maintain a Patio Myself or Call a Professional?
The majority of patio maintenance can be completed by the homeowner. Minor cleaning, sealing, repainting, cleaning gutters and other surface-level issues are all fairly straightforward.
Addressing these issues will go a long way in maximising your patio’s lifespan and allowing you to get the most enjoyment out of your outdoor sanctuary.
However, there are instances where you’ll want to get a professional opinion and schedule replacement or repair if necessary.
We suggest contacting a professional if you notice these patio issues:
- Roof damage
- Gutter damage
- Severe mould
- Excessive rust
- Structural damage
- Electrical issues
- Insect infestations
- Foundation issues, such as a crack in the slab
Patio Cleaning
We always suggest using a mild cleaning solution and avoiding harsher cleaning options or products.
Often, a solution of warm water, mild soap, and a bit of elbow grease is all you need to keep your patio clean.
General patio maintenance should include:
- Making sure gutters are free of debris
- Keeping an eye out for roof damage
- Regular sweeping
- Scrubbing with a gentle cleaner as necessary
- Hosing down or using a pressure washer on occasion
- Sealing/resealing patio flooring as necessary
- Keeping the roof clear of debris
- Contacting a professional if you notice electrical or structural issues or mould or insect problems
How to Remove Stains Like Dust, Oil, and More
For stubborn stains or intense dirt buildup, pressure washing may be necessary. However, take note that pressure washing can damage concrete patio pavers.
Always use the gentlest clever possible and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have a stubborn stain, you can use a stronger cleaner but be careful what surfaces or materials you use it on. For instance, limestone pavers can be permanently damaged by overly acidic cleaners.
When dealing with stains or built-up dirt, keep these patio cleaning tips in mind:
- Avoid solvent-based or abrasive cleaners
- Avoid coarse scrubbing brushes that may scratch or damage patio surfaces
- Avoid harsh, acidic cleaning products
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Do a patch test before cleaning
- Use the mildest cleaning solution possible for a job
Repair and Restoration of Patios
Using Sealants
Applying a stain or sealant can help protect porous materials, such as natural stone, wood, or concrete. Sealants and stains are designed to protect against damage from UV rays, stains, and moisture.
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure a sealant or stain is compatible with your patio material.
For freshly laid foundations, check to see if the manufacturer advises waiting a certain period before applying sealant.
Sealants cannot be removed once applied, so make sure you are absolutely certain before moving forward with it.
Inspect and Repair As Needed
Throughout the year, periodically inspect your patio for signs of wear and tear.
Look for:
- Roof damage
- Loose or chipped tiles or pavers
- Peeling or chipped paint
- Insect damage
- Rot or decay
- Damage to support posts
- Mould growth
- Areas that need sealant reapplied
- Any unusual wear and tear
If you notice an issue, address it immediately before it can turn into a complicated, costly issue or a safety concern. For instance, ignoring rot can allow the structural integrity of your patio to be compromised, putting your family’s safety at risk.
Patio Furniture and Decor Maintenance
When buying patio furniture and decor, we always recommend opting for pieces that are resistant to UV rays and water damage. However, even treated patio furniture is susceptible to damage from the sun, rain, moisture, and elements.
To maintain patio furniture:
- Always wipe up spills immediately
- Clean the furniture according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Consider investing in weatherproof furniture covers that are water and UV-resistant
- Cover your patio furniture when not in use or during storms or harsh weather
- If you don’t use your patio at all during the cooler winter months, move patio furniture into a storage shed or garage if possible.
Lighting, Electrical, and Drainage Concerns
To maintain patio lighting, replace bulbs as needed and make sure all lighting and wiring are working properly. Always call a licensed electrician for any wiring or electrician concerns.
To prevent patio drainage issues, regularly clean your gutters and keep an eye out for roof damage or paver damage. If you are experiencing drainage issues, this is also an area that requires professional expertise.
Seasonal Tips for Maintaining Your Patio
Quick Tips for Maintaining Your Patio in Spring
‘Spring cleaning’ is a popular phrase for a good reason. Spring is the ideal time to give your patio a thorough refresh and check for any damage from winter storms.
- Scrub dirty areas with a mild cleaner
- Remove weeds
- Make sure your gutters are clean and free of debris
- Bring out any patio furniture or decor you had stored away
- Check for any damage to the roof, support posts, or foundation
- Sweep your patio flooring so it is free of any debris, leaves, or dirt
- Consider pressure washing areas that are dirty or stained
- Seal or stain your pavers, decking, or flooring if needed
Quick Tips for Maintaining Your Patio in Summer
Summer is a beautiful time to hang out on your patio and enjoy a break from the Perth heat.
We’re guessing you want to focus more on relaxing than cleaning during the summer months, but here are a few quick patio maintenance tips for summer:
- Inspect for any mould or areas of rot or decay
- Cover furniture when not in use or keep it in the shade as much as possible
- Keep greenery or plants trimmed and pruned
- Remove weeds
- Keep an eye out for insect infestation or damage
- Keep the patio floor swept and free of debris or dirt
Quick Tips for Maintaining Your Patio in Autumn
Autumn is an important time to prepare your patio for chilly days and trim any trees or bushes that grew over spring and summer.
Other patio maintenance tips for autumn include:
- Clean out the gutters and make sure they are free of debris
- Trim nearby bushes, trees, and plants
- Clear away any overhanging branches
- Give the roof a good rinse using a high-pressure water cleaner (do not use harsh chemicals on an insulated roof)
- Inspect for any mould or decay
- Inspect for any insect damage
Quick Tips for Maintaining Your Patio in Winter
Chances are, you’ll probably be using your patio less on chilly days. If you barely use it, you may want to consider storing smaller outdoor decor and furniture indoors.
Here are some winter patio maintenance tips:
- Cover any furniture or store it inside a shed or garage
- Move pillows, rugs, coffee tables, vases, and other decor inside
- Make sure the floor is clear of debris by regularly sweeping or using a leaf blower
- Trim overhanging branches
- Do not use salt or ice melt on concrete
Do I Need a Patio Refresh?
Patio need a refresh? If you’re simply tired of the decor, try an inexpensive update by adding a new rug, a few new throw pillows, and a couple of vases of flowers.
Chipping or peeling paint? Give it a nice fresh coat. Give stained or dirty surfaces a good scrub.
For structural concerns, electrical issues, or mould, contact a licensed professional to address the issue and restore beauty and function to your patio.
Get the Most Out of Your Custom Perth Patio
We hope our patio maintenance tips help you protect your investment. With proper patio maintenance, you can enjoy your outdoor oasis for many years to come.
