The Ultimate Guide to Pressure Washing Patios, Decking, and Driveways in the South West

Is your patio looking tired, your decking slippery, or your driveway stained with oil and moss? Whether you’re a homeowner in Exeter or a small business in Bristol, keeping your outdoor spaces clean is essential for safety, kerb appeal, and property value. At South West Tool Hire, we know that the right equipment can make all the difference-saving you time, effort, and money.

Outdoor surfaces in Devon and Somerset face constant exposure to rain, algae, and grime. Over time, patios, decking, and driveways can become not just unsightly, but hazardous. Regular pressure washing removes dirt, moss, algae, and stubborn stains, restoring surfaces and reducing slip risks.

For businesses, a clean exterior creates a welcoming first impression for customers. For householders, it means more enjoyable outdoor living and less maintenance in the long run.

We’ve put together a quick Step-by-Step guide on how to Pressure Wash Your Patio, Decking, or Driveway

1. Preparation

  • Remove all furniture, pots, and obstacles from the area.
  • Sweep away loose debris with a broom or leaf blower.
  • For driveways, pre-treat oil stains with a degreaser if needed.

2. Choose the Right Pressure Washer

  • Decking: Use a light to medium pressure washer (under 130 bar) to avoid damaging wood. Start on the lowest setting and use a wide fan nozzle
  • Patios & Driveways: For concrete, stone, or block paving, a higher pressure (130–150 bar) is effective. For block paving, be cautious-jetting can remove the sand between blocks, so be prepared to re-sand after cleaning

3. Washing Technique

  • Hold the nozzle 8–12 inches from the surface.
  • Move in a consistent, sweeping motion, overlapping each pass for even results.
  • For decking, always follow the direction of the wood grain
  • Use specialist cleaning solutions for stubborn stains or mildew, applying as per manufacturer instructions, then rinsing thoroughly

4. Rinse and Dry

  • Rinse away any detergent or loosened debris.
  • Allow surfaces to dry before replacing furniture or allowing traffic

Why Hire a Pressure Washer from South West Tool Hire?

1. Save Money and Hassle

  • No Upfront Investment: Hiring means no large purchase costs or ongoing maintenance bills
  • No Storage Worries: Avoid cluttering your garage or business premises with bulky equipment you only use occasionally
  • Access to the Right Tool for Every Job: Choose from petrol, diesel, electric, or mini bowser models-ideal for everything from small patios to large commercial yards.

2. Faster, Better Results

  • Professional-Grade Power: Our hire fleet includes petrol and diesel washers for maximum cleaning power-far more effective than most DIY models.
  • Tailored Solutions: From the Hurricane Petrol P2 with Reel to compact Tornado Mini Bowser washers, we have the right machine for every surface and job size.

3. Perfect for South West Conditions

  • Our machines are chosen for reliability and performance in the damp, variable climate of the South West-ensuring you get the job done right, first time.

Our Pressure Washer Hire Range

ModelPower SourceBest ForTypical Use
Petrol Pressure WasherPetrolHeavy-duty, large areasDriveways, commercial yards
Electric Pressure WasherElectricLighter jobs, domestic patios/deckingHome patios, small businesses
Diesel Pressure WasherDieselIndustrial, continuous useLarge car parks, farmyards
Mini Bowser (Tornado Mini)PetrolCompact, portable jobsSmall patios, tight spaces
Hurricane Petrol P2 with ReelPetrolVersatile, extended reachLarge patios, long driveways
Pressure Washer BowserPetrol/DieselNo mains water supply neededRemote sites, construction areas

Tips for South West Householders and Businesses

  • Safety First: Always wear goggles and gloves. Keep pets and children away during cleaning
  • Protect Plants: Cover nearby flowerbeds or rinse them after cleaning to remove any detergent.
  • Regular Maintenance: Clean patios, decking, and driveways annually or after the winter to prevent build-up and slippery surfaces
  • Re-sand Block Paving: If cleaning block paving, reapply kiln-dried sand to joints after washing

Ready to Refresh Your Outdoor Space?

Hiring a pressure washer from South West Tool Hire is the smart, cost-effective way for homeowners and small businesses across Devon and Somerset to achieve sparkling results-without the expense or hassle of ownership. Book your hire today and give your patio, decking, or driveway the professional clean it deserves.

Dust Suppression Bowser

Contact South West Tool Hire for expert advice and the best pressure washer hire in the South West

Bristol Branch – 0117 953 1216​

Bridgwater Branch – 01278 551515​

Exeter Branch – 01392 363778​

South West Tool Hire

Written by the South West Tool Hire Marketing Team

South West Tool Hire — Plant & Tool Specialists

South West Tool Hire provides professional plant, tool, and equipment hire across Bristol, Exeter, Bridgwater, Bodmin, and surrounding areas. Our team supplies reliable, fully serviced equipment for trade contractors, commercial sites, and DIY projects.