The Best Way to Clean Pavers on Your Driveway, Sidewalk, or Patio

Pressure Washing, Not Always the Test Option to Clean Pavers

When it comes to cleaning pavers on your driveway, sidewalk, or patio, pressure washing isn’t always the best option. Pressure washers can remove the sand between the pavers, leaving them vulnerable to damage or even completely displaced. Not only that, but it also requires a lot of work to restore the interlocking of the pavers. Therefore many people opt for a less aggressive approach when it comes to achiving clean pavers.

I’ve read some articles that say using dish soap and water is a great option for cleaning up dirt and debris from your pavers. The article states that the suds of the soap will help to lift any surface stains, while the water rinses away dirt. Yes, this would be a safe approach to clean pavers but as an exterior cleaning professional, I don’t think you’ll get the results you want. There are much better eco-friendly paver cleaners on the market that will do a much better job.

If your pavers aren’t that dirty and you still want to try dish soap, using a soft bristle brush will help to agitate the surface of the pavers, removing any loose dirt and debris that has become stuck to the surface. Make sure to rinse off the surface of the pavers with clean water once you have finished scrubbing.

Pressure washing might be an effective way to quickly clean your driveway, sidewalk, or patio; however, this approach often does more harm than good. However, if you plan to replace the sand between the pavers then go ahead and power wash away.

You can find these specialized detergents at most home improvement stores and online. Read the labels carefully and make sure to follow the instructions provided. Some detergents may require diluting before use, so be sure to read the directions carefully. Most can be applied with a simple pump-up garden sprayer.

Finally, always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous spot before applying it to the entire area to ensure that it won’t cause any damage.

Finally, always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous spot before applying it to the entire area to ensure that it won’t cause any damage.

Working the Detergent into the Pavers

Once you have chosen the best detergent for your pavers and mixed it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, spray it on in sections. Once you’ve let it dwell long enough, it is time to start scrubbing. To achieve best results for clean pavers, work the detergent into the porous surface of the pavers with a stiff bristle brush. This will help the cleaner penetrate the brick while loosening surface dirt.

When working the detergent into the pavers, move it in a circular motion to ensure even coverage. Start at one end of the pavers doing a small section at a time and work your way across until the entire surface has been covered. Once you’ve applied the cleaner and scrubbed, leave it to sit or “dwell” as recommended by the manufacturer. The detergent needs time to do its job and loosen dirt and debris from the pavers’ surface.

Rinse and Last Steps to Clean Pavers

It’s important to use a gentle water-broom action when pressure washing pavers. This lowers the pressure to help avoid blowing out any of the sand between the pavers and reduces the risk of damage. Start from one end of the area you’re cleaning and move slowly back and forth, overlapping each pass slightly. As you go along, you’ll see the dirt and grime being washed away and the pavers will start to look cleaner.

When you’ve finished pressure washing the pavers, let them dry for at least 24 hours before sealing them. After they have dried, you can apply a sealer to protect the surface and give it a glossy finish. Sealers are available in both water-based and solvent-based formulas, so be sure to read the instructions on your product before applying it.

When applying sealer, use a paint roller or brush to work it into the surface. Don’t use too much; it’s better to do two thin coats rather than one thick coat. Wait at least 24 hours after applying the sealer before walking on the surface.

Now that you have completed the process of cleaning and sealing your pavers, you can enjoy their beauty for years to come. Regular maintenance is easy; simply sweep off any loose debris with a broom or blower, and re-seal them every 3-5 years. With proper care, your pavers will continue to look great and last a long time!

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