Many companies struggle with cleaning their outdoor patios and think that a... scrubber only suitable for indoor use. This is a misconception that costs many entrepreneurs money by hiring external cleaning companies or purchasing expensive high-pressure cleaners. A scrubber can indeed be used very well on outdoor patios, provided you choose the right machine and take a few important factors into account.
The advantages of a patio scrubber are significant: they clean more thoroughly than just sweeping, are more efficient than manual scrubbing and are often more environmentally friendly than high-pressure cleaners. Moreover, with the right machine you can work both indoors and outdoors, which makes the investment extra profitable.
Can scrubbers be used safely outdoors?
Yes, scrubbers can be used safely outdoors, provided they are suitable for outdoor use and you take the correct precautions. Modern scrubbers are often designed to withstand different weather conditions and have protection classes that allow outdoor use.
The most important condition is that the machine has an adequate IP rating. This classification indicates how well the machine is protected against dust and water. For outdoor use, at least an IPX4 rating is recommended, which means that the machine is splash-proof. Many professional scrubbers even have a higher degree of protection.
Make sure that you do not use the machine during extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or frost, or at temperatures below freezing. Water in the machine can then freeze and cause damage. It is also wise to always store the machine dry and clean in a sheltered space after use outdoors.
Which scrubbers are best suited for terraces?
The best scrubbers for terraces are robust machines with a high protection class, strong suction and a brush pressure that is suitable for rough surfaces. Consider walk-behind machines for smaller terraces or driving machines for large surfaces.
Compact walk-behind scrubbers are ideal for smaller patios. These machines are agile enough to maneuver around obstacles such as garden furniture and planters. They usually have a working width of 35 to 55 centimeters and are suitable for surfaces up to approximately 1000 square meters.
For larger terraces, driving machines are more efficient. These have a wider working width (often 65 to 85 centimeters) and can quickly clean large surfaces. Some models, such as the compact machines from our Meijer range, combine agility with power and fit through standard doorways of 70 centimeters.
The brush hardness is also important. For rough patio surfaces such as concrete or natural stone you need harder brushes than for smooth indoor floors. Many machines offer the option to change different brush types depending on the surface you want to clean.
How do you protect a scrubber against weather influences?
You protect a scrubber against weather influences by regular maintenance, proper storage and avoiding extreme conditions. The machine must always be cleaned after use and stored dry in a covered area.
After each outdoor use, it is essential to clean the machine thoroughly. Rinse all parts with clean water to remove salt, sand and other corrosive substances. Pay particular attention to the brushes, suction hoses and water reservoirs. Allow all parts to dry completely before storing the machine.
The battery deserves extra attention when used outdoors. Extreme temperatures can shorten the life of batteries. In frost, water can freeze in the battery and cause damage. Therefore, always store the machine in a room where the temperature remains above freezing. For optimal battery performance, a storage temperature between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius is ideal.
Check the seals and rubber parts regularly. These can wear out faster due to weather influences. Replace damaged parts in a timely manner to prevent moisture from entering the machine and damaging electrical components.
What are the advantages of scrubbers compared to high-pressure cleaners for patios?
Compared to high-pressure cleaners, scrubbers offer more thorough cleaning, lower water consumption, less noise pollution and better control over the cleaning process. They immediately suck up the dirty water, leaving no muddy puddles behind.
The main advantage is the combination of mechanical and chemical cleaning. Where a high-pressure washer only relies on water pressure, a scrubber combines brushing, cleaning agent and extraction. This results in a much more thorough cleaning, especially with stubborn stains such as oil, grease or dried dirt.
Water consumption is considerably lower with scrubbers. A high-pressure washer uses an average of 400 to 600 liters of water per hour, while a scrubber only needs 50 to 150 liters for the same surface. This not only saves water, but also costs and is better for the environment.
- No splashes and mud spreading to surrounding areas
- Work more quietly, causing less inconvenience to the environment and employees
- Possibility to use different cleaning agents for specific contamination
- Immediately dry result due to the extraction function
How Metech helps with the right scrubber for your patio
We help you find the perfect scrubber for your specific patio situation. With more than 700 machines in stock and experience in the industrial cleaning sector, we can immediately provide you with the right solution.
Our approach is practical and customer-oriented. We offer on-site demonstrations so that you can first try out the machine on your own terrace. This way you can be sure that the machine is suitable for your specific surface and cleaning needs.
- Personal advice based on your terrace type and surface area
- Demonstration on location to test the machine first
- Choose from top brands such as Tennant, Nilfisk and our own Meijer brand
- Full service with maintenance and parts delivery
- Also refurbished machines for a competitive price
Whether you choose to purchase, lease or rent, we ensure that you have the right machine within 24 hours. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation and discover how a scrubber can revolutionize your patio cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean my terrace with a scrubber?
The cleaning frequency depends on the use and location of your terrace. For commercial terraces we recommend weekly cleaning, while private terraces usually require monthly cleaning. If there is a lot of leaf fall or in urban areas with more pollution, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Which cleaning agents can I use in an outdoor scrubber?
Always use biodegradable cleaning agents that are suitable for outdoor use. For general cleaning, neutral all-purpose cleaners are sufficient, for stubborn stains you can use special degreaser or stone cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage plants.
Can I use a scrubber on all types of decking materials?
Most scrubbers are suitable for concrete, natural stone, tiles and clinkers. For delicate materials such as soft natural stone or impregnated wood, you should use soft brushes and set lower pressure. Always test on an inconspicuous spot first.
What should I do if my scrubber does not suck up all the dirt from the terrace?
First check whether the suction hose is not clogged and whether the suction motor is working properly. It often helps to drive more slowly, increase brush pressure or go over stubborn spots a second time. If necessary, replace the suction rubbers for better sealing.
Is a cordless scrubber better than a mains power supply for outdoor use?
For outdoor use, a battery-powered machine is often more practical because you do not need a power cable and work more safely in wet conditions. Modern batteries last 2-4 hours, which is sufficient for most patios. A net machine can only be more efficient for very large surfaces.
How do I prevent my scrubber from causing damage to joints between tiles?
Use round brushes instead of disc brushes for terraces with joints, do not set the brush pressure too high and do not drive over the joints too quickly. For old or loose joints, it is better to clean manually or use a soft brush.