While professional cleaning always yields the best results, there are several steps homeowners can take to maintain their pavers between professional services. Here are our top tips for DIY paver cleaning, along with common mistakes to avoid.
Start with a good sweep. Regular sweeping with a stiff-bristled broom removes loose dirt, leaves, and debris before they can stain or decompose on your paver surface. This simple habit, done weekly during fall and spring, significantly reduces the need for deep cleaning.
For general cleaning, a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water applied with a scrub brush works well for routine maintenance. Scrub in the direction of the paver joints and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or muriatic acid, as these can discolor pavers and damage the joint sand.
For oil and grease stains, apply a commercial paver degreaser or an absorbent material like kitty litter immediately after a spill. Let it sit for several hours to absorb the oil, then sweep it away. Older stains may require multiple treatments or professional attention.
If you use a pressure washer, exercise caution. The biggest mistake homeowners make is using too high a pressure setting or holding the wand too close to the surface. This can etch the pavers, remove joint sand, and undermine the bedding layer. Always use a fan tip or rotary surface cleaner attachment, and keep the pressure below 3,000 PSI.
Avoid using weed killers directly on your pavers. Many herbicides can stain paver surfaces and damage the polymeric sand. Instead, pull weeds by hand and consider having the joints professionally re-sanded and sealed to prevent future growth.
When you are dealing with stubborn stains, organic growth, or want a thorough deep clean, professional service is worth the investment. Our team uses specialized equipment and techniques that clean effectively without damaging your pavers. Contact us for a free cleaning estimate.