- Small areas: a stiff brush or a scraper will lift moss off the surface and out of the joints. Sweep it up rather than washing it into drains.
- Pressure washing works, but the pressure has to suit the surface. Softer stone, such as sandstone, can be marked by too much pressure. See my sandstone guide.
- Block paving: cleaning washes out some of the jointing sand, so it should be re-sanded afterwards to stop the blocks loosening and weeds coming back.
- Treatments: some products slow regrowth, but only use them as the label says, and keep them off lawns and plants.
If you'd rather not do it yourself, I clear moss from paths, patios, driveways and gutters.
Why moss keeps coming back
Moss needs shade and moisture, so the same spots go green every autumn and winter. Paths along the north side of a house, under trees, or next to a fence or wall are the usual culprits. Cutting back overhanging plants and keeping joints filled helps.
Different surfaces need different care
- Concrete and most modern slabs can take a proper clean.
- Sandstone and other natural stone need lower pressure and more care.
- Block paving needs the joints re-sanded after cleaning.
- Older, crumbling or loose paving can be damaged by cleaning, so it's worth getting it looked at first.