Gardeners are being urged to ditch a popular method of clearing patio weeds — as experts reveal it could be doing more harm than good.
As temperatures rise and patios become prime spots for summer relaxation, homeowners across the UK are pulling out their trusty tools to tackle unsightly weeds poking through paving slabs.
But a new warning suggests that one of the most commonly used solutions could be backfiring.
Experts say using a pressure washer to blast away weeds might seem like a quick fix, but it’s likely to cause long-term problems for your outdoor space.
According to gardening experts, pressure washers can damage the pointing between patio slabs, loosening the structure and creating the perfect environment for future weed growth.
The force of the water not only removes existing weeds but also clears away the sand and mortar holding your patio together.
Gardeners are being advised to swap out their pressure washer for manual weed removal tools such as a patio knife or a wire brush, which are far gentler on the paving joints.
These tools allow you to carefully scrape away weeds without disturbing the structure underneath.
For those dealing with particularly stubborn weeds, natural remedies like white vinegar or boiling water can offer effective alternatives without the structural risk – though care should be taken not to damage surrounding plants.
Frequent pressure washing can lead to several serious issues that compromise patio integrity. An expert said: “They can produce impressive results, but frequent use can cause long-term problems such as surface erosion, damage weak points in the slab and destroy mortar joints.
Prevention is key. Regular sweeping of your patio to remove debris and seeds, along with the occasional application of jointing sand, can stop weeds from taking hold in the first place.
While the pressure washer might be satisfying to use, experts say it’s best kept for cleaning surfaces – not for gardening duties.