
- Paving cleaning removes dirt, oil, moss, algae and weeds from driveways, patios, paths and pool areas.
- It suits paving that looks tired or has turned slippery, and is the first step before sealing.
- Describe the job once and compare quotes from independent contractors.
Send the area in m², the paving type and photos of the worst stains.
Compare Paving QuotesWhat Paving Cleaning Includes
- Pre-treating stains and growth.
- Cleaning with a method that suits the material.
- Removing weeds from the joints.
- Rinsing and clearing debris.
- Re-sanding joints, if included.
Stains and Growth
| Problem | Common approach |
|---|---|
| Moss and algae | Biocide treatment, then washing |
| Oil and grease | Degreaser or poultice; old stains may not fully lift |
| Rust marks | A rust remover suited to the material |
| White salt marks (efflorescence) | Dry brushing or a specialist cleaner |
| Weeds in joints | Removal, then re-sanding |
| Grime and tyre marks | Pressure cleaning |
Cleaning Methods by Material
- Concrete pavers. Moderate pressure with a fan nozzle. Too much pressure strips the surface and the joint sand.
- Clay pavers. Tolerate cleaning well.
- Natural stone. Low pressure and pH-neutral cleaners. Acid etches limestone and travertine.
- Sealed paving. Cleaners must suit the sealer.
Common Reasons for Paving Cleaning
- Green, slippery paving in winter.
- Oil stains on the driveway.
- Before selling or letting a property.
- Preparing paving for sealing.
How Paving Cleaning Works
- Assessment. Material, stains and a test patch.
- Protection. Plants, walls, windows and drains.
- Treatment. Stains and growth pre-treated.
- Cleaning. Washed and rinsed.
- Joints. Re-sanded if included.
Paving Cleaning Prices
| Item | Ballpark price |
|---|---|
| Pressure cleaning | R30 - R80 per m² |
| Minimum call-out | R800 - R1,200 |
| Re-sand joints and weed treatment | R60 - R120 per m² |
| Clean, re-sand and seal (combined job) | R90 - R150 per m² |
Ballpark figures, not quotations. Indicative 2026 estimates compiled from published Western Cape and national paving price guides and a Cape Town materials supplier price list, checked September 2026. Most sources do not say whether VAT is included, so confirm VAT on every quote. A site visit and a written quote set the actual price. See Paving Prices Cape Town for what these figures include.
What to Check in a Cleaning Quote
- Method and pressure for your material.
- Chemicals used and where the runoff goes.
- Whether re-sanding is included.
- Water supply and any minimum charge.
Cape Town Site Conditions
Shaded, south-facing paving grows moss and algae through the wet winter. If water restrictions are in force, check what the City allows for high-pressure cleaning with municipal water.
Comparing Quotes
Ask whether the price includes re-sanding the joints after cleaning.
Send one enquiry through Cape Town Paving and compare quotes from relevant independent paving contractors covering your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will pressure washing damage paving?
It can if the pressure is too high or the nozzle too close. The right method depends on the material.
How often should paving be cleaned?
Most homes clean once a year or when paving turns slippery. Shaded areas need it more often.
Do joints need re-sanding after cleaning?
Usually. Cleaning washes out some joint sand, and gaps let weeds back in.
Can oil stains be removed completely?
Fresh stains usually lift. Old, soaked-in stains may only fade.
Should paving be sealed after cleaning?
Only if the material benefits from it. Not all paving needs sealing.
Related Pages
Cape Town Paving is a free quote-comparison service. Paving work is quoted and carried out by independent contractors, and your agreement is with the contractor you appoint. Ask each one for a written, itemised quote, what is and is not included, and their payment terms before paying anything.
Paving Cleaning Cape Town. Describe your paving once and compare cleaning quotes.
Compare Paving QuotesCompare Paving Cleaning Quotes
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