Wondering how to clean pavers? You’re in the right place!
Pavers can really change the look of your backyard, driveway, or patio—but let’s be real, they can also get pretty dirty. If it’s dirt, moss, or stubborn stains, a good cleaning can bring your pavers back to life. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple steps to clean concrete pavers, backyard pavers, and everything in between.
According to comparisons, a well-maintained outside space can improve the value of your home by 10-20%.
This article will walk you through on how to clean pavers and improve you outdoor space appeal.
What You’ll Learn:
What is a Paver?
A paver is a construction material used to create outdoor surfaces, such as patios, walkways, driveways, and other landscaping projects. These pavers are made from various materials, including concrete, brick, stone, and sometimes plastic or rubber.
Pavers are designed to interlock and form a solid, durable surface that can withstand weather conditions and heavy foot traffic.
Types of Pavers
- Concrete Pavers- Made from a mixture of concrete and coloring agents and are molded into various shapes and sizes. They are popular due to cheap installation costs and durability.
- Stone Pavers- Stone pavers, such as granite, and limestone, offer a unique and luxurious appearance. They are highly durable and can last for decades.
- Brick Pavers- Made from clay, brick pavers are known for their classic, timeless look. They are often used in traditional and historic settings and can handle heavy loads, making them suitable for driveways as well as patios.
- Porcelain Pavers- These are a newer option made from porcelain, offering high durability and resistance to stains, scratches, and fading.
- Plastic and Rubber Pavers- These type of pavers are made from recycled materials and are an eco-friendly option. They are lightweight, easy to install, and offer good resistance to weather and wear.
Why Clean Your Pavers? (Hint: It’s More Than Just Aesthetics)
Cleaning your pavers isn’t just about making them look nice (though that’s a huge advantage). Regular maintenance also prolongs their life and prevents things like mold, weeds, and dirt from causing long-term damage. Plus, your neighbors will secretly envy your clean driveway or patio. Who doesn’t love that?
Now, let’s get down to business!
Tools Needed to Clean Pavers
- Broom
- Garden hose with a spray nozzle
- Bucket
- Mild detergent or paver-specific cleaner
- Scrub brush with stiff bristles
- Pressure washer (optional)
- Sand (for refilling joints, if necessary)
- Sealant (optional, but recommended)
How to Clean Pavers: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Despite pavers’ impressive durability, regular cleaning and maintenance can help them last even longer.
We recommend hiring professionals wash your patio at least once a year for the best results; however, you can do a DIY cleaning in between appointments. Here are step-by-step directions for cleaning your pavers without a pressure washer.
1. Gather Your Supplies
The first step is to prepare the tools needed to clean pavers (listed above).
Got everything? Great, let’s move on to the fun part!
2. Start With a Good Sweep
Before bringing out the big guns (aka the hose or pressure washer), give your pavers a good sweeping. Use a broom or leaf blower to remove any loose debris like dirt, leaves, or twigs. The cleaner the surface, the easier the next steps will be.
Pro Tip: If you’ve got weeds or moss growing between your pavers, pull them out or use a specialized moss remover.
3. Pre-Rinse the Pavers
Grab your garden hose and give the pavers a quick rinse. This helps loosen dirt and makes cleaning more effective. If your pavers are particularly grimy, you may want to skip ahead to using a pressure washer at this stage.
4. Scrub the Pavers
Using a scrub brush with stiff bristles, scrub the pavers thoroughly. Pay extra attention to areas with visible stains or moss. For particularly tough stains, you may need to use a bit more elbow grease or a specialized cleaner designed for your type of pavers.
5. Rinse It All Off
Once you’ve scrubbed your pavers, rinse off the soapy residue with your garden hose. If you have a pressure washer, now’s the time to shine! Keep the pressure setting low to medium to avoid damaging the pavers.
Pro Tip: If you’re cleaning backyard pavers, you might want to cover nearby plants before using a pressure washer to avoid any splash damage.
How to Clean Concrete Pavers with a Detergent
For most types of pavers, you can use a mild detergent mixed with water. Dish soap or a specialized paver cleaner works great. Here’s what to do:
- Mix detergent with water in a bucket.
- Dip your stiff-bristle brush or push broom into the soapy water.
- Scrub each paver in circular motions.
- Pay extra attention to any stubborn stains.
- Let the detergent sit for about 10 minutes to work its magic.
How to Clean Backyard Pavers: Dealing with Stubborn Stains
Sometimes soap and water aren’t enough, especially when dealing with oil stains, rust, or other tough marks. Here’s how to handle them:
- Oil Stains: Apply baking soda directly to the stain, scrub with a brush, and rinse with hot water.
- Rust Stains: Use a specialized rust remover for pavers, follow the instructions, and rinse thoroughly.
- Mold or Mildew: Mix one part bleach with 10 parts water and scrub the affected area. Make sure to rinse well afterward to prevent bleach from affecting nearby plants or grass.
How to Seal Pavers After Cleaning
Once your pavers are clean and dry, you may want to consider resealing them to keep them looking fresh longer. Here’s a quick guide:
- Wait until the pavers are completely dry (this can take up to 48 hours).
- Apply paver sealer using a roller or sprayer.
- Let the sealer dry for 24-48 hours before using the area.
Conclusion: Keep Those Pavers Looking Fresh!
Now that you know how to clean pavers, you’ve got all the tools and know-how to keep your backyard or driveway looking top-notch. If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional cleaner, a little bit of elbow grease goes a long way! Remember to clean your pavers regularly and seal them for added protection.
Need help getting those pavers sparkling clean? Don’t have time for the DIY route? Give us a call and let the pros handle it. Contact us today to schedule a cleaning service! Your pavers (and neighbors) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to clean pavers with?
The best way to clean pavers is with a combination of mild detergent or paver cleaner and water, paired with a stiff-bristle brush or push broom. For deep cleaning, a pressure washer on a low to medium setting is highly effective.
Can you clean pavers with soap and water?
Yes, soap and water work great for cleaning pavers, especially for regular maintenance. A mixture of dish soap and water can help remove dirt and light stains. Just scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.
How do you make pavers look new?
To make pavers look new, give them a deep clean using a pressure washer or scrub them with soapy water. After cleaning, re-sand the joints and apply a paver sealer to restore their original color and shine.
How do I keep my pavers from turning black?
To prevent pavers from turning black, clean them regularly to remove dirt, mold, and mildew. Sealing the pavers after cleaning will help protect them from moisture buildup, which often causes discoloration.
How do you make pavers last longer?
To extend the life of your pavers, clean them regularly, seal them every 1-2 years, and promptly remove any weeds or moss. Re-sanding the joints after cleaning can also help prevent shifting and maintain the structure.
What is the lifespan of a paver?
With proper care, pavers can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years or more. Regular maintenance, like cleaning and sealing, plays a big role in maximizing their lifespan.