Any homeowner who has researched hardscape features for their house knows that pavers are one of the best elements you can invest on. But installing pavers is only part of the subject. Maintenance is just as important. So, how do you care for pavers? Can you power wash pavers?
The advantages of pavers are well known across the hardscape industry. Their versatility, structural reliability and aesthetic value are unmatched by other hardscape elements. Proper cleaning and maintenance play a big part on how long pavers can properly do their job.
When properly installed and maintained, pavers can last for decades without presenting any troubles. The objective of this article is to show you techniques you can use to clean and care for your pavers, including power washing.
So let’s get right to it.
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Can You Power Wash Pavers?
The answer is yes, you can safely power wash your pavers. However, there are some things you need to know first.
Power washing should not be used too often. Power washers are powerful machines that can clean even the most difficult stains. However, they can also remove the sand between the pavers, and sometimes even the sealing, so they need to be used only when it is time to re-sand and re-seal the installation.
In case you didn’t know, the best way to install pavers is in a dry installation. A dry installation consists of placing pavers over a bed of road base and sand. After placed, the joints between the pavers are filled with sand to create an interlocked system.
This system allows the pavers to distribute weight instead and resisting it head on. For it to work effectively, the sand between the pavers need to be in good condition.
Also, the great majority of pavers (the exception being porcelain pavers), are porous, so they need to be sealed to be protected. Power washing can also remove the sealer, so that is one more reason why they should not be used frequently.
Power washing is an excellent choice to perform a deep cleaning before a re-sanding and re-sealing of the pavers, which happens every 3 years or so. For everyday use, there are other options you can go for.
How to Clean Pavers Regularly
Cleaning pavers regularly is of extreme importance. The accumulation of dirt can stain the pavers and compromise the flow of water, causing mildew and mold to develop.
The most important cleaning practice you can maintain with your paver installation is regular sweeping. Don’t let leaves or other debris accumulate on the surface of the pavers for too long.
Do a quick sweep of the pavers every day to get rid of any big debris and a deeper sweep every week or so to get rid of dust, sand, dirt and minor debris.
As for cleaning, a simple gentle brush with warm water and soap every three months or so will suffice. Depending on your type of pavers, you can use specif cleaning products, like concrete soap or natural stone cleaners.
Simply spread the product and gently brush the dirtiest areas. Following that, rinse it and leave it to dry.
What Products NOT TO USE to Wash Pavers
There are a few products that you want to avoid using on pavers. Unfortunately, some of these products are popularly known as “good cleaners” and often misguidedly used as so.
The biggest one is bleach, by far. Bleach is too dangerous and, with specific cleaning products available, there’s no reason to risk using it on your pavers. Vinegar is also popular, but also a bad choice, although not as aggressive as bleach.
The problem with these products is that they are too acidic. Their pH levels are too high and can cause serious damage to pavers. That’s what the use of pH-neutral products is always recommended when cleaning pavers.
Removing and Preventing Stains on Pavers
Speed is the most important factor when it comes to stains on pavers. Be it biological material resting on its surface or spills and drops, removing it quicker is the best thing to avoid stains.
Soaking the spill with paper towel or a clean cloth as quickly as possible is sure to not let the stain sink in. After that, a quick rinse on the area will make sure everything will be properly cleaned.
But the best way to avoid stains is to seal your pavers. Sealing protects the pavers against all kinds of spills, as well as freeze-thaw cycles and a multitude of weather effects.
Professional Cleaning of Pavers
So, power washing pavers is a very powerful cleaning solution that should be used only in the most extreme cases. Regular cleaning is the best alternative when it comes to the maintenance of pavers.
Either way, the choice of using or not a power washer on your paver installation should rest on the shoulders of a qualified hardscape contractor.
Contacting a professional to help you is the best thing you can do, and something we always recommend. So look for a professional in your area and ask for help.
Here at JS Brick, we have been providing that kind of cleaning service uncountable times over our more than 20 years of activity, so we know the importance of good cleaning practices.
We highly encourage you hire professionals in your area to help you with the cleaning of your paver installation. And if you happen to be around our area of activity, the Sarasota and Manatee Counties in FL, why not give us a call to help you out?
You can contact us anytime at +1 941 586 9140 or email us at [email protected]. We would be happy to hear from you.
