As the days get longer and temperatures rise, now is the perfect time to prepare your patio for summer. Whether you're planning BBQs, garden parties or relaxing evenings outdoors, a clean and protected patio creates the ideal setting. The key to getting a summer ready patio is simple: clean it thoroughly and seal it properly. With the right approach, you can transform tired, weathered paving into a fresh, low maintenance outdoor space that lasts all summer long.
Why It’s Important to Prepare Your Patio for Summer
After months of exposure to rain, dirt, and organic growth, patios can become dull, slippery, and difficult to maintain.
Preparing your patio now can help to:
- Improve the overall look of your garden
- Remove algae and moss that cause slippery surfaces
- Extend the lifespan of your paving
- Protect paving from weather exposure
- Reduce cleaning and maintenance during the summer
Step 1: Clean Your Patio
Remove Dirt and Stains with Sika® Brick & Patio Cleaner
Before sealing or styling your patio, a deep clean is essential. Built-up grime can prevent protective treatments from working effectively. Sika® Brick & Patio Cleaner is powerful acid-based cleaning solution for brickwork and patios. It is designed to dissolve ingrained dirt, stains, mortar, cement and efflorescence.
How to use Sika® Brick & Patio Cleaner:
- Sweep away loose dirt and debris
- Apply the product with a brush or spray, working it well into any stains
- Leave for 15-20 minutes
- Use a hard bristle brush to remove any stains
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water, preferable with a hose, before the product dries
Always consult the local Product Data Sheet for the exact product data and uses.
Remove Mould, Algae and Green Growth with Sika® MouldBuster
Sika® MouldBuster is a powerful biodegradable solution for removing algae, mould and green growth. It is fast acting and removes all organic growth without the need for scrubbing or pressure washing.
How to use Sika® MouldBuster:
- Wear suitable protective clothing when diluting and applying: gloves, eye protection and face protection
- Do not use if rain is expected within 5-6 hours of application
- Dilute 1 part Sika® MouldBuster with 4 parts water in a watering can or a low-pressure sprayer
- Apply the diluted mix directly onto the affected surface ensuring the entire area is saturated
- Leave it to dry
- The product works over several weeks to kill and remove mould and algae, results will begin to be seen within days
- Remove any stubborn growths by lightly brushing them away once dead
Always consult the local Product Data Sheet for the exact product data and uses.
Step 2: Seal Your Patio
Once your patio is clean and dry, sealing it helps protect against everyday use and summer conditions like food and drink spills, foot traffic and sun exposure.
Why You Should Seal Your Patio:
Sealing provides long term protection for your patio by:
- Limiting staining from food, drink, oil and dirt
- Reducing moss and algae regrowth
- Enhancing durability
- Protecting against water damage and weathering
- Making clean up easier
Seal and Protect Patios and Paving with Sika® Path & Patio Sealer
Sika® Path & Patio Sealer is a water-based solution for sealing patios, paving and stonework. It seals and protects outdoor surfaces against water, dirt, grime, and green growth. It enhances durability and keeps your patio looking clean for longer.
How to use Sika® Path & Patio Sealer:
- Stir or shake the product thoroughly before use
- Do not apply if rain is expected within 5 hours
- Apply evenly using a long-pile roller, brush or low-pressure garden spray
- Allow at least 1 hour between coats if applying more than 1 coat (very porous substrates, e.g. concrete and some stones, may require 2 coats, while for low porosity substrates, e.g. dense block paving, 1 coat is usually sufficient)
Always consult the local Product Data Sheet for the exact product data and uses.
Protect Natural Stone Patios and Paving with Sika® Stone Protector
Sika® Stone Protector is a water-based solution for protecting natural stone. It is suitable for paths, patios and block paving made from natural stones including Indian sandstone, granite, slate and limestone. It prevents water penetration, resists staining and protects the surface’s appearance.
How to use Sika® Stone Protector:
- Remove any organic growth with Sika® MouldBuster
- Shake well before use
- Do not apply if rain is expected within 6 hours
- Apply using a long-pile roller or suitable brush
- Apply evenly avoiding any pooling or ponding of the product
- If applying a second coat, it must be applied within 30 minutes of the first one (normally only 1 coat is required, but very porous surfaces like Indian sandstone may require 2)
Always consult the local Product Data Sheet for the exact product data and uses.
FAQ
You should clean your patio at least once before summer, with light maintenance as needed throughout the season.
Typically, you should seal your patio every 1-2 years, depending on wear and exposure.
No. Sealing your patio without cleaning it will trap dirt and reduce effectiveness.
Transform Your Patio With Sika
Your patio is the heart of your outdoor space during summer. Taking the time to clean and seal it now ensures it stays looking its best throughout the season. Whether you're preparing for garden gatherings or simply want a low-maintenance outdoor area, the right preparation makes all the difference.
