Why Patios in Marlow turn black after winter (and how to fix it)

If your patio in Marlow is starting to look dark, patchy or covered in black spots, you’re not alone.

This is something many homeowners notice as we come out of winter. What was once a clean, bright patio can quickly start to look tired and weathered.

I recently cleaned a patio in Marlow where this had happened quite noticeably across the entire surface.

What Causes Black Spots on Patios?

The black spotting you’re seeing is usually a type of lichen.

It develops gradually over time and becomes more visible after winter due to:

• Damp conditions

• Low sunlight

• Organic build-up

• Poor drainage in some areas

Unlike general dirt or algae, these black spots are more stubborn and won’t simply wash away with a hose or light clean.

Why Standard Cleaning Doesn’t Work

Many homeowners try to clean their patio themselves using:

• A garden hose

• A domestic pressure washer

• Off-the-shelf patio cleaners

While this can improve the overall look slightly, it rarely removes the black spots properly.

That’s because lichen embeds itself into the surface of the stone.

Without the right pressure, technique and post-treatment, it tends to remain visible.

How Professional Patio Cleaning Fixes It

For this Marlow patio, the process involved:

• A full surface assessment

• Professional pressure washing to remove built-up dirt and algae

• Targeted treatment to deal with the black spot areas

• Careful rinsing to restore an even finish

The result was a significant improvement in colour and overall appearance.

While some heavily embedded spots can be more stubborn, the difference after proper cleaning is usually very noticeable.

The Result

Once cleaned, the patio looked far brighter and more consistent across the surface.

It made a big difference to the overall feel of the garden, especially heading into spring and summer when outdoor spaces are used more.

Patio Cleaning in Marlow

If your patio is starting to look dark or covered in black spots, it’s usually a sign that organic growth has built up over time.

I provide professional patio cleaning in Marlow using the right equipment and process to safely restore the surface.

Budget: £385-£900

Location: Marlow, UK