How to Choose the Best Concrete Cleaner for Your Outdoor Surfaces

The Secret to Moss-Free, Beautiful Outdoor Spaces

Concrete surfaces, whether patios, driveways, or paths, are susceptible to wear and tear, stains, moss and algae growth. Traditional cleaning methods like power washing and scrubbing can cause damage and are often unnecessary when using the right products. This guide will help you understand the best approaches to cleaning and protecting your concrete surfaces using two of our standout products: MAK (Moss and Algae Killer) and Chlor-Kleen Extra.

Understanding the Cleaning Needs of Your Outdoor Surfaces

Outdoor surfaces like concrete, tarmac, decking, and roof tiles endure constant exposure to changing weather, moisture, and heavy use. While these materials are designed to be durable, they are also porous and can accumulate mould, moss, and stubborn stains over time. Tarmac can become slick and discoloured with moss buildup, decking can develop algae and mould that makes it slippery, and roof tiles can harbour moss that damages their integrity.

Each type of surface has unique cleaning needs. Concrete requires a cleaner that penetrates deeply to remove embedded stains, tarmac benefits from solutions that target moss and algae without eroding the surface and decking needs a gentle but effective cleaner that won’t damage wood fibres.

Don’t forget moss absorbs moisture like a sponge. If your roof is covered in moss this means your roof is constantly damp. If this moisture seeps beneath the tiles, it can cause the wood underneath to rot, compromising the roof’s structure and potentially leading to costly repairs. By choosing the right products tailored to safely treat each surface, you’ll not only achieve a thorough clean but also extend the lifespan of each surface.

With the proper solution, you can avoid high-pressure washing or abrasive scrubbing, which may cause erosion, cracking, or surface degradation. A targeted cleaner will work deep within the material to remove contaminants while protecting its natural finish, helping to keep outdoor areas looking fresh and safe for years to come

The Problem with Power Washing and Scrubbing

While power washing and heavy scrubbing can be effective at removing heavy surface dirt, they do pose risks:

• Erosion and Surface Damage: Power washing at high pressure can erode the top layer of concrete, leading to a rough and uneven texture.
• Time-Consuming and Labor-Intensive: Scrubbing is labour-intensive and may still fail to reach deeply embedded stains or moss.
• Environmental Impact: Excess water and energy are often used with these methods, which can be unsustainable in the long run.

Fortunately, products like MAK and Chlor-Kleen Extra offer solutions that are easier to apply, highly effective, and safe for outdoor surfaces without requiring scrubbing or high-pressure washing.

Moss Killer & Concrete Cleaning Products Overview

MAK (Moss & Algae Killer)

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• Purpose: Specifically designed to eliminate moss and algae on various surfaces, including tarmac, decking, patios, driveways, paths, and roofs.
• Key Features: MAK works by penetrating the surface to kill moss and algae at the root, preventing regrowth and keeping surfaces clean for longer.
• Application: Simply spray MAK onto the surface, let it sit, and allow the product to work its way into the moss and algae without the need for scrubbing or power washing.
• Usage Rate: Dilute MAK with clean, good quality water.
  Light Growth- Add 1litre of MAK to 10 litres of water to cover 40m2
  Heavy Growth- Add 1litre of MAK to 5 litres of water to cover 20m2

When to Use MAK (Moss and Algae Killer)

1. For Surfaces with Heavy Moss and Algae Growth

MAK is ideal if your outdoor surfaces are prone to frequent moss and algae growth, such as shaded patios, driveways under trees, or damp paths. Its targeted formula kills moss and algae at the roots and prevents regrowth, which is essential for longer-lasting results.

Shaded Patios: Patios in shady areas often develop slippery moss and algae, especially after rain. MAK effectively eliminates these hazards, making the patio safer and more visually appealing.

Driveways Under Trees: Overhanging branches create damp, moss-prone conditions. Using MAK prevents moss buildup, ensuring a clean and slip-resistant driveway.

Garden Paths: Paths that receive little sunlight can become treacherous due to moss growth. MAK tackles these problem areas, keeping them clear and safe for regular use.

Wooden Decking: With Ireland’s frequent rain and damp climate, wooden decking is especially prone to algae buildup, making it slippery and unsafe. MAK is the ideal solution for tackling these conditions, effectively cleaning and protecting the decking. Its targeted formula removes algae without damaging the wood, ensuring your deck stays safe, attractive, and ready to enjoy year-round, even in Ireland’s wettest seasons.

Roof Tiles: Moss on roofs not only looks unsightly but can also damage tiles over time. MAK’s formula kills moss at the roots, preventing regrowth and protecting the roof’s structural integrity.

Tennis Courts or Sports Areas: Outdoor courts exposed to our damp weather benefit from MAK’s moss-killing properties, maintaining a safe and playable surface.

Outdoor Steps: Steps can become hazardous when moss and algae accumulate. Regular use of MAK ensures they remain clean and secure.

2. For Areas You Want to Protect Without Frequent Cleaning

Since MAK works well on tarmac, decking, and roofs, it’s an excellent choice for surfaces where you want to avoid frequent cleaning cycles. It’s designed to maintain cleanliness over time, reducing the need for repeated applications.

Chlor-Kleen Extra

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• Purpose: Formulated as a powerful concrete cleaner that restores surfaces to a nearly-new condition, suitable for paths, patios, driveways, and all types of stone surfaces
• Key Features: Chlor-Kleen Extra’s chlorine-based formula dissolves tough stains, grime, and mildew, making it ideal for heavily soiled surfaces. It is effective at half the dilution rate of standard Sodium Hypochlorite.
• Application: Chlor-Kleen Extra can be applied with a garden sprayer or brush and left to work without scrubbing or pressure washing. Spread evenly over the surface. Leave in contact for 15 to 30 minutes before washing down with water.
• Usage Rate: Apply a 20/1 dilution of Chlor-Kleen Extra (1 part Chlor-Kleen Extra to 19 parts water) by brushing or spraying.

When to Use Chlor-Kleen Extra (Concrete Cleaner)

1. For Concrete Surfaces with Stubborn Stains and Grime

Chlor-Kleen Extra is formulated to tackle tough stains and accumulated grime on concrete and stone. Its chlorine-based solution penetrates the concrete surface, effectively dissolving dirt and restoring the surface to a like-new appearance.

Concrete Driveways and Paths: Restores heavily soiled areas by removing embedded dirt and organic growth.

Patios and Paving Stones: Cleans thoroughly without the need for heavy scrubbing or pressure washing, preserving the integrity of the surface.

Brickwork and Walls: Targets moss and stains that cling to rough textures, ensuring an even, clean finish.

Outdoor Stone Features: Maintains the natural appearance of decorative stonework by removing discolouration and organic buildup.

2. For a Quick Surface Renewal

If you need a fast-acting cleaner, Chlor-Kleen Extra can deliver dramatic results. It’s particularly useful for surfaces that have become heavily soiled over time. Ideal for seasonal deep cleaning or preparing surfaces for sealants or coatings, it’s a versatile choice for maintaining your outdoor spaces.

MAK vs. Chlor-Kleen Extra: Key Differences

To help you make an informed choice, here’s a comparison of the two products based on their specific applications, best usage scenarios, and protective qualities.

Quick Application Guide: How to Achieve the Best Results for Your Outdoor Spaces

Both MAK and Chlor-Kleen Extra offer unique benefits, depending on the specific needs of your outdoor surfaces. If moss and algae are recurring issues, MAK will prevent growth and keep surfaces cleaner for longer. However, for heavily soiled concrete or stone needing deep restoration, Chlor-Kleen Extra is a powerful choice that restores surfaces quickly.

*Due to the broad variation of patio slabs and other paving materials, a small area should be tested first for suitability as colour variations may result.

Maintenance Tips to Prolong your Clean outdoor Surfaces

1. Reapply as Needed: Follow up with a reapplication of MAK every few months to maintain moss-free surfaces in shaded or damp areas.
2. Regular Inspections: Check concrete and stone areas periodically for early signs of moss or staining. Addressing these sooner can reduce the need for intense cleaning.
3. Avoid Harsh Treatments: Biocel’s key products make scrubbing and power washing unnecessary, preserving the integrity of your surfaces.

Use Biocides Safely. Always read the label & production information before use.
Contact Biocel for a safety DataSheet

By understanding your outdoor surfaces and choosing the right product, you’ll enjoy clean, well-maintained paths, patios, and driveways without the need for labour-intensive methods.