Exterior Cleaning for New Build Homes: What You Need to Know

It's a common misconception that new build homes don't need exterior cleaning for years. In reality, block paving driveways and patio surfaces installed on new builds can begin showing green algae growth within 12 to 18 months, particularly in damp conditions. The initial protective treatments applied by builders wear off relatively quickly, and once they do, biological growth establishes rapidly.

New build driveways and patios also often have builder's residue, cement dust, and other construction debris embedded in the surface from the build process. A professional clean in the first year removes this residue before it becomes ingrained, and establishes the clean baseline from which ongoing maintenance can be scheduled.

Many new build homeowners are surprised by how quickly their pristine block paving turns green. The good news is that new surfaces are generally easier to clean than older, more heavily contaminated ones — growth hasn't had time to penetrate deeply. Starting with a professional clean in year one and maintaining it every two years thereafter is the most cost-effective approach.