How to Remove Black Spots from Your Patio

What Are the Black Spots on My Patio?

Black Spot is a prevalent issue that can affect outdoor stone surfaces, including patios, leading to unsightly dark splotches. It is a form of lichen that if left untreated can not only mar the appearance but can also cause long-term damage to the surface. Recognising a lichen invasion is straightforward, as the dark spots visibly spread across the patio's surface, forming a resilient crust that distinguishes it from ordinary dirt. Attempts to remove these marks through scrubbing or pressure washing often prove futile, making this one of the more difficult patio blemishes to address.

Let’s take a look at how you can easily remove these unsightly black spots and address some of the more commonly asked questions.

Tips for Removing Black Spots For Your Patio

Use A Black Spot Removal Product

For best results, you’ll want to use a black spot remover to treat the affected area. We recommend using GK Black Spot Remover, which is specifically designed to combat black spots on exterior surfaces, ensuring the root of the issue is effectively treated.

First, use a broom or firm bristle brush to remove loose dirt, moss, and debris, ensuring optimal adhesion for the subsequent treatment. Avoid applying treatments in wet weather, frost, or if rain is expected during the application period – this can cause the treatment to freeze or be diluted. The longer the selected treatment is allowed to work (up to 24 hours), the brighter the surface will appear. Slightly moistening the surface before application may enhance the process's effectiveness. Finish by using a jet wash or a stiff brush to remove the treatment.

Avoid Just Using the Jet Wash

Although we recommend using a jet wash after an area has been treated, you’ll want to avoid using a jet wash alone. Typically, you’ll find this to be ineffective and it will not treat the underlying cause of the black spot by removing the hyphae (the root structure) of the growth.

Seal Your Patio

To avoid future regrowth of black spots (and other biological materials and staining) you’ll want to seal your patio with an appropriate sealant. We would recommend GK Invisible Stone Sealer, which creates a breathable but resistant layer across the substrate.

Use Less Porous Materials

In the future, you may want to consider using less porous materials when building your outdoor spaces. Porous stone allows rain water to seep in and creates a great environment for lichen to develop, thus increasing the likelihood of black spots developing. Porcelain is a popular non-porous option.

Why Do Black Spots Keep Coming Back?

Black spots will return if you do not address the root of the growth, which is why specialist cleaning products are required, such as GK Black Spot Remover. You should also consider sealing your patio to avoid future regrowth after cleaning.

Will Vinegar or Bicarbonate of Soda Get Rid of Black Spots on my Patio?

While vinegar and bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) can be effective natural cleaners for various purposes, they may not be as potent for removing black spots, especially if they are caused by lichen or other stubborn growths. The black spots on patios typically require more specialised treatments.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, black spots are a common issue affecting outdoor stone surfaces like patios, results in unsightly dark splotches caused by lichen, posing a risk of long-term damage if untreated. Recognising lichen invasion is evident through the spread of dark spots and the formation of a resilient crust, and traditional cleaning methods often prove ineffective. To optimally address this issue, it is recommended to use specialised products such as GK Black Spot Remover and sealing the patio with a product like GK Invisible Stone Sealer for prevention of future growth.