Most slips don’t happen on ice. They happen on everyday surfaces that have slowly built up a layer of algae, grime or oil: the front steps, a shaded walkway, the back deck, a store entrance. Add a little rain and those surfaces can become surprisingly slick.
What makes surfaces slippery
- Algae and moss grow on concrete, stone and wood in damp, shady areas and turn slimy when wet
- Grime and dirt fill in the texture of concrete that normally gives your shoes grip
- Oil, fuel and tire residue collect in driveways, parking areas, drive-thrus and gas station islands
- Wet leaves and organic debris pile up in the fall and break down into a slippery film
Where to watch for it
Look at north-facing steps, walkways under trees, decks and balconies, building entrances, and anywhere water runs or pools. For businesses, high-traffic spots like entryways, sidewalks, drive-thru lanes and pump islands deserve extra attention.
Before
AfterWhy it matters
At home, it’s about keeping your family, guests and delivery drivers safe on the way to your door. For businesses, it’s also about your customers and staff. Property owners in Ontario are expected to take reasonable care to keep their premises safe for visitors, and a slip-and-fall can mean an injury, a claim, and a lot of stress for everyone involved.
How regular cleaning helps
Professional pressure washing removes the algae, grime and residue sitting on top of your surfaces and brings back the natural texture that gives you grip.
Oil, grease and other stubborn stains are a different story. Pressure washing alone often isn’t enough. Getting them out takes the right combination of hot water, cleaning products and technique, so that slippery stain stops being a liability on your property. For more delicate surfaces, we switch to a gentle soft-wash so nothing gets damaged.
The best defence is a schedule. A cleaning in the spring clears away winter grime and salt, and another in the fall removes leaves and buildup before freezing temperatures set in. Busy commercial sites often benefit from monthly or seasonal service, and we offer discounted rates for recurring service.
Safety is how we work, too
The same thinking goes into how we clean. Our water-fed pole system lets us clean upper-level windows from the ground, with no risky ladder work. That helps prevent accidents and damage to your property.