What Actually Causes Black Spot on a Driveway, and Can It Be Removed?

The Direct Answer

Black spot on block paving and patios is usually a lichen, a slow-growing organism that bonds directly into the surface of the stone or concrete rather than sitting on top of it like dirt. That is exactly why blasting it with more pressure rarely works and often just damages the surface around it. It needs a dedicated treatment that breaks down the lichen itself, not more force.

Why pressure alone does not work

• Lichen grows into microscopic pits in the surface of the stone, not just on top of it.
• Pressure that is strong enough to physically remove bonded lichen is usually strong enough to damage the surface it is bonded to.
• Even when pressure does shift the visible patch, the spores left behind mean it is likely to return.

What actually works

A dedicated treatment applied to the affected area, left to work, then rinsed off. This breaks down the lichen at a level pressure cannot reach without damage. Some staining that has been established for years will fade rather than disappear completely — we tell you honestly which you are dealing with before starting, rather than promising a result pressure cannot deliver.

FAQ: Will it come back?

It can, especially on shaded, damp areas of a driveway where lichen thrives. Regular cleaning keeps it from re-establishing as badly.

FAQ: What does driveway cleaning cost?

Priced per job after we measure, with sealing from £1,200. Full detail on the driveway and patio cleaning page.

Fixed price agreed before we start. Call 07467 214446 or message us on WhatsApp.