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Pavers add a beautiful touch to any home’s landscape. Properly maintaining them can prolong their life and keep them looking great for many years. Below are the steps needed for cleaning your pavers.
Step 1: Clear the Area
The first step to cleaning your pavers will be to remove any furniture or plants from the area. Chemicals can damage or kill plants so it is important to keep them safely away from the pavers while deep cleaning. If you are preparing for the winter, place heavy plants indoors and store furniture. (Note: Heavy objects that sit on pavers during the winter can cause them to sink during the thaw and freezing process common during cold periods. This can cause cracks or uneven pavers once spring arrives.)
Step 2: Remove Organics
Removing weeds and other organics is important. Plant growth between pavers can cause crackers erode the foundation and joint filler itself. Use a stiff bristled brush of broom to loosen moss or algae. Gently pull out any taller weeds as well. If a weed killer is used, professionals recommend waiting two weeks before proceeding further. This allows the killer time to kill off any roots. Again, brush the area once more to ensure all organic matter in the joints has been removed.
Step 3: Cleaning
Depending on how you are going to clean your pavers, you may need to saturate the surface area first. This is particularly necessary when using a brush to clean your pavers. It will prevent the soapy water from settling on the surface of your pavers and forming a film while you work elsewhere. While there are paver cleaners available in stores, a simple solution of water and dish detergent can also be used. Mixed two cups of dish soap with a gallon of water for a gentle, non-abrasive cleaning solution. Working in small sections, pour some of the dish soap mixture and proceed to scrub with a stiff bristled brush or broom. Once you have finished cleaning your pavers, use a hose to rinse the area.
Pressure washers can be used to remove stains or even deep clean your pavers. However, this should be used with caution as pressure washers can erode the finish on your pavers and blast away joint filler. If you regularly clean your pavers, you should not have to resort to pressure washing after normal use of your pavers.
Step 4: Re-Sanding & Sealing
After a good cleaning, the sand between the pavers may need to be refilled. Once the pavers have dried, add polymeric sand to the crevices. Be sure to sweep any sand into the joints. Using the mist mode on your hose nozzle, gently spray water over the joints to help the sand better settle.
At least once a year, pavers should be sealed to help prevent stains and damages. Ask a professional what type of sealer should be used on your particular type of pavers.
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