For most patios, paths and block-paved driveways, a pressure washer in the 130–150 bar range will handle the job well. Heavier moss, ingrained dirt, or large driveways may benefit from 160 bar or above. Flow rate matters too — a higher litre-per-hour rating rinses away loosened debris faster, which makes a noticeable difference on larger surfaces. Look for a model that balances both figures rather than chasing the highest bar number on the box.
Electric & Petrol Pressure Washers for Patios, Driveways and More
MacBlair stocks a range of pressure washers suited to everything from a quick car wash to blasting years of moss and grime off a block-paved driveway. Electric models are the most popular choice for everyday garden use, needing nothing more than an outdoor socket and a tap connection to get started. Petrol-powered washers are available for jobs where access to a power supply is limited, or where larger areas call for more sustained cleaning power.
When picking a model, two numbers matter most: bar pressure and flow rate. Higher bar breaks up stubborn dirt and moss; higher flow rate rinses it away faster. A machine in the 130–150 bar range handles most domestic tasks well, including patio and driveway cleaning, decking, garden furniture and vehicles. Heavier surfaces or larger areas may benefit from stepping up to 160 bar or above. Most models include a variable lance so pressure can be adjusted depending on the surface being cleaned.
Common accessories to look out for include:
- Rotary patio cleaner attachments, which clean flat surfaces evenly without streaking
- Turbo or dirt blaster nozzles for tackling ingrained grime
- Detergent bottles or snow foam lances for vehicle washing
- Extension hoses for reaching across larger driveways or decked areas
After washing down paving or timber decking, it is worth following up with an appropriate treatment. MacBlair carries patio sealers to protect cleaned surfaces and decking stains to restore and preserve wood once it has been cleaned back. The hose fittings and sprayer range is also worth a look if additional watering or rinsing accessories are needed alongside a new washer.
Pressure Washer FAQ's
Electric pressure washers are powered from a mains socket and are suited to light, medium and heavy domestic tasks. They are quieter, easier to start and lower maintenance than petrol models. Petrol pressure washers are independent of a power supply, making them useful for areas away from an outdoor socket or for larger-scale cleaning. They typically deliver higher pressure and flow rates, but are heavier and require more upkeep, including fuel, oil and filter checks.
Yes, using too high a pressure or the wrong nozzle can damage surfaces. On paving, a narrow jet held too close can etch or pit the surface — a rotary patio cleaner attachment distributes pressure more evenly and gives a much cleaner result. On decking, start at a lower pressure setting and work along the grain of the wood. Always build up gradually rather than starting at full power, and avoid pressure washing brickwork or glass, as these surfaces are particularly vulnerable to high-pressure water.
A rotary surface cleaner, often called a patio cleaner attachment, is strongly recommended for cleaning flat surfaces. It uses a spinning bar underneath a protective hood to clean evenly across the whole area, preventing the streaking or lines that a standard lance can leave behind. Many pressure washer brands sell these as optional accessories, so it is worth checking compatibility before buying one separately.
Once a patio has been pressure washed, it is a good time to address any jointing compound that has been washed out from between the slabs, as gaps left unfilled can allow weeds to take hold again quickly. After the surface has fully dried, applying a patio sealer will help protect it from moisture, algae regrowth and staining. For block paving in particular, reapplying kiln-dried sand and a jointing compound before sealing will keep the surface stable and looking its best for longer.