How to remove algae/moss on stonework?

123imp

Hi all,

Seeking some advice on cleaning the steps and stonework at the back of my new home. Have loads of costs at the moment so hoping to save some money by doing myself, rather than getting someone in. Does anyone have any advice on how I could tackle removing the moss/algae on the wall and steps, and improving the situation between the decking and wall in the crevice? Don't want to damage any of the stonework, although I do have a pressure washer.

Thanks.

subjecttocontract

I'd start with a stiff broom to get rid of the loose stuff. 
Moss & algae killer liquid for the steps.
An electric sander and wire brush for the decking followed by 2 costs of decking stain.
Then some gravel or decorative stones for the gap between wall and deck.

123imp

subjecttocontract said:

I'd start with a stiff broom to get rid of the loose stuff. 
Moss & algae killer liquid for the steps.
An electric sander and wire brush for the decking followed by 2 costs of decking stain.
Then some gravel or decorative stones for the gap between wall and deck.

Brilliant thanks.

Would you use the moss and algae killer on the stone wall as well? And any brand/product in particular worth using?

kipsterno1

I've just used Bac50 to clean some flags and a small wall. Read several posts recommending it uses on decking. Might be worth a quick search.

Newbie_John

On the cheap you can mix bleach with water and brush it, then rinse it.

RipleyG

Bleach and algae killer are both nasty things - toxic to humans, bad for the environment generally. Have a look for Nancy Birtwhistle (previous great British Bake Off winner) on Instagram - she has a less harmful method. 

Newbie_John

RipleyG said:

Bleach and algae killer are both nasty things - toxic to humans, bad for the environment generally. Have a look for Nancy Birtwhistle (previous great British Bake Off winner) on Instagram - she has a less harmful method. 

Bleach is bad only initially, but then it decomposes quite quickly into salt water - especially outdoor. So not really a big issue.

123imp

Right, thanks for the replies. I don't want to jetwash the stonework obviously in fear of damaging the grout/sand between the bricks, but I'll try something milder like vinegar and scrubbing, and then if that doesn't work I'll give bleach mixture a go. Thanks.