Slippery outdoor surfaces are one of the most overlooked safety hazards for homes and businesses in Cornwall. Thanks to our damp, coastal climate, algae, moss, and lichen can build up rapidly on decking, patios, paths, and driveways — often long before property owners realise there’s a problem.
What starts as a cosmetic issue quickly becomes a serious slip and fall risk, especially during wet weather. In this article, we’ll explain why slippery surfaces are so common in Cornwall, the dangers they pose, and how professional exterior cleaning dramatically reduces the risk of accidents.
Why Outdoor Surfaces Become Slippery So Quickly in Cornwall
Cornwall’s environment creates the perfect conditions for organic growth.
Key factors include:
- Frequent rainfall and high humidity
- Mild temperatures year-round
- Shaded gardens and north-facing areas
- Coastal air carrying salt and moisture
These conditions allow algae and moss to thrive on almost any outdoor surface, including:
- Wooden decking
- Composite decking
- Patios and paving slabs
- Natural stone
- Paths and steps
- Driveways
Algae forms a thin, green biofilm that becomes extremely slippery when wet, while moss retains moisture and creates uneven footing.
The Real Dangers of Slippery Outdoor Surfaces
⚠️ Slip and Fall Accidents
Slips are one of the most common causes of injury around the home. Decking, patios, and steps are particularly hazardous when algae is present — especially after rain.
Children, elderly family members, and visitors are at higher risk, but even healthy adults can be caught out by how slick algae-covered surfaces become.
⚠️ Increased Liability for Businesses & Landlords
If you own:
- A holiday let
- A rental property
- A pub, café, or restaurant
- A commercial premises
You have a duty of care to keep outdoor areas safe. Slippery decking or walkways can lead to claims, reputational damage, and lost bookings.
Regular professional cleaning significantly reduces this risk.
⚠️ Hidden Surface Damage
Organic growth doesn’t just sit on the surface — it traps moisture.
Over time, this leads to:
- Rot and decay in timber decking
- Loose joints in paving
- Accelerated surface wear
- Costly repairs or replacement
Slippery Outdoor Surfaces Across Cornwall’s Towns & Coastal Areas
Slippery decking, patios, and pathways are a widespread issue across Cornwall — not just in coastal locations, but also in inland towns with shaded gardens and high rainfall.
We regularly help homeowners and businesses deal with slippery outdoor surfaces in areas including:
- Truro
- Falmouth
- Newquay
- St Austell
- Penzance
- Camborne
- Redruth
- Bodmin
- St Ives
- Liskeard
- Wadebridge
Coastal air, frequent rainfall, and shaded outdoor spaces mean algae and moss can develop rapidly — making professional cleaning essential for safety.
Common High-Risk Areas Around Cornwall Properties
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Slippery surfaces most often develop in:
- Shaded garden areas
- North-facing patios
- Under trees and hedges
- Near coastal locations
- Areas with poor drainage
Decking and steps are particularly dangerous because they’re frequently used and often wet.
Why DIY Cleaning Often Makes the Problem Worse
Many property owners attempt to solve slippery surfaces with a domestic pressure washer — but this often causes more harm than good.
DIY cleaning risks include:
- Making decking rough and splintered
- Forcing water into joints and fixings
- Damaging surface coatings
- Removing algae temporarily without killing it at the root
The result?
Surfaces often become slippery again within weeks.
How Professional Cleaning Prevents Slips and Accidents
Professional exterior cleaning focuses on safety, not just appearance.
✔ Deep Algae & Moss Removal
Specialist treatments kill organic growth at the root, preventing rapid regrowth.
✔ Surface-Safe Cleaning Methods
Correct pressure and techniques are used for each surface type — especially important for decking and natural stone.
✔ Improved Grip Underfoot
Once algae and biofilm are removed, surfaces regain their natural traction, significantly reducing slip risk.
✔ Longer-Lasting Results
Professional cleaning keeps surfaces safer for longer compared to DIY methods.
Slippery Decking & Patio Risks in Cornwall’s Coastal Towns
In coastal towns such as Falmouth, Newquay, St Ives, and Penzance, salt-laden air combines with moisture to accelerate algae growth on decking and paved areas.
These locations often experience:
- Faster surface contamination
- More frequent wet conditions
- Increased slip risk on steps and decking
Holiday lets and rental properties in these areas are particularly vulnerable and benefit greatly from scheduled professional cleaning.
Inland Cornwall Towns Are Just as Affected
Slippery surfaces aren’t limited to the coast.
In towns like Truro, Bodmin, St Austell, Redruth, and Camborne, shaded gardens, trees, and limited airflow create ideal conditions for moss and algae to thrive.
Even properties far from the sea can suffer from:
- Permanently damp patios
- Slippery garden paths
- Algae-covered decking
Regular professional exterior cleaning helps keep these areas safe year-round.
Decking, Patios & Paths: Surface-Specific Safety
Wooden Decking
- Extremely slippery when algae-covered
- Requires controlled, low-pressure cleaning
- Professional cleaning prevents splintering and rot
Patios & Paving
- Moss fills joints and holds moisture
- Slabs become slick underfoot
- Professional cleaning restores grip and appearance
Steps & Walkways
- High-risk areas for falls
- Must remain clean year-round
- Regular maintenance is essential for safety
How Often Should Slippery Surfaces Be Professionally Cleaned in Cornwall?
For most Cornwall properties:
- Once per year minimum
- Twice per year for shaded or coastal locations
- Before summer for maximum safety and visual impact
Holiday lets and commercial properties often benefit from scheduled maintenance plans.
Why Choose Jet Power Pressure Washing?
Jet Power Pressure Washing provides professional exterior cleaning across Cornwall and Devon, with a strong focus on safe, effective surface care.
✔ Fully insured
✔ Experienced with decking, patios & driveways
✔ Professional-grade equipment
✔ Surface-appropriate cleaning methods
✔ Reliable local service
We don’t just clean — we help make outdoor spaces safer.
Professional Exterior Cleaning Across Cornwall
Jet Power Pressure Washing provides professional exterior cleaning services throughout Cornwall, including Truro, Falmouth, Newquay, St Austell, Penzance, Bodmin, Camborne, Redruth, Wadebridge, Liskeard, and surrounding areas.
If your decking, patio, paths, or driveway feel slippery — especially after rain — we’re here to help.
👉 Contact Jet Power Pressure Washing today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert local advice.
Book a Professional Cleaning & Reduce Slip Risks Today
If your decking, patio, paths, or driveway feel slippery — especially after rain — it’s time to take action.
👉 Contact Jet Power Pressure Washing today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice.
Professional cleaning helps:
- Reduce slip and fall risks
- Protect surfaces from damage
- Improve appearance and safety
- Give you peace of mind
