After a long winter it feels like it is time to clean the patio and get ready for Spring. All patios require a simple maintenance to keep it protected and looking its best, so what do you need to do to bring your neglected stone paving back to life?

First, declutter the patio, remove dead winter tubs and hanging baskets, and remove weeds (most weeds can simply be pulled or scraped up out of the paving) do a sweep then simply fill a bucket with one cup of washing up liquid, soap or soda crystals. Pour the warm soapy water across the affected area starting at the corners,  and begin scrubbing to loosen dirt.  Always scrub diagonally as this will be gentler on the jointing compound and less will come out during cleaning. You can also use a power washer but take care as excessive use can damage paving slabs and jointing.

Paving slab sealant can help you to protect your patio against the weather extremities like we have had this week in North Leeds. Sealant is completely invisible and won’t change the colour or appearance of the stone.

Over time, the jointing of your paving can crack and loosen. To ensure the longevity, you should repair any jointing that needs it – brush-in jointing compounds are easy to use and will help with this.

Once the patio is dry reset your furniture and you are ready to use.

While you should only need to clean your patio once a year ( a perk of choosing a patio over decking!), a small amount of maintenance will deliver a consistently clean finish all year round.

If you are considering selling your home, and Spring is one of the best times to sell according to Rightmove, it is well worthwhile taking time to improve this often neglected area of your home – stunning pots and hanging baskets can make all the difference, and investing in some good garden furniture too can turn your patio into a lovely entertainment area as well as adding value to your home.

For a free market appraisal call David Phillip FRICS on 01134 676 400. David Phillip Estate Agents, 86, Leeds Road, Bramhope, Leeds w: davidphillip.co.uk

Covering Leeds, North Leeds, Bramhope, Adel, Cookridge, Pool-in-Wharfedale