It’s no surprise that your pavers will start to show age over many years, so it’s important to know how to clean pavers. Although we can’t control the elements, we can clean patio pavers with different techniques and processes! Ready to bring your outdoor space back to life?

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Remove Furniture and Decorations

Clear the furniture, planters, grills, and décor area to allow full access to the pavers. If you’re cleaning a paver driveway, move vehicles to prevent overspray damage from cleaning solutions.

Sweep the Surface

Get your stiff, bristled push broom to looser and remove dirt and other debris from the surface. Optionally, using warm water makes scrubbing more effective by allowing debris to be removed more efficiently. This simple paver cleaning step will make future steps far more manageable.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

Identify Stains

Properly identifying stains is crucial to choosing the right cleaning method to avoid damage. Here’s how to recognize common stains:

1. Grease or Oil Stains

• Dark, slick, or greasy spots are often found in driveways or near grills.
• Test by sprinkling flour or baking soda over the stain; if it absorbs and darkens, it’s oil-based.

2. Rust Stains

• Reddish-brown or orange in appearance, most often found near metal furniture, tools, or sprinklers.
• If stains like this appear near metal objects or irrigation, it’s most likely rust.

3. Moss, Mildew, or Algae

• Green, black, or dark patches are often found in shady or damp areas.
• Commonly slimy when wet and crumbles when dry, those are indicators of organic growth.

It’s important to note that some cleaning methods work better than others on specific stains. Some stains may prove stubborn and require more attention.

Apply Mild Detergent or Paver Cleaner

For most applications, basic cleaners work wonders on your paving stones. Choosing the right cleaner for the job is easier than you think!

• Mild Dish Soap or Detergent—Great for general dirt and light stains, dish soap is the go-to method for basic cleaning projects. It is also a good choice for dealing with grease and oil stains.
• Paver-Specific Cleanser—Use a degreaser for oil stains (if dish soap isn’t working), rust remover for rust, or mold/mildew remover or white vinegar for organic growths.
• Eco-Friendly or Biodegradable Options—To protect your grass and surrounding plants, consider using an eco-friendly cleaner to avoid damage.

Some cleaners have specific instructions on the bottle; make sure you follow them to get the best results.

Let it Sit

After correctly identifying and soaking the stain in the right cleaner, let it soak for 10-15 minutes. It’s essential, however, not to let the solution dry as this may stain your pavers further.

Scrub the Stains

Use a stiff-bristled broom to scrub large areas after it’s soaked for the recommended amount of time and a scrub brush for stubborn stains. Feel free to apply extra cleaner to spots that weren’t thoroughly cleaned the first time.

Step 3: Pressure Washing

Set Up the Pressure Washer

After applying your solution and scrubbing the pavers, pressure washing ensures a deep clean by removing loosened dirt and debris. Choosing the right pressure washer is key to ensuring your pavers don’t chip or crack during the cleaning.

• PSI (Pressure)—For pavers use a 1,500-2,500 PSI setting for pavers, higher PSI can damage softer stones.
• Nozzle—A 25° to 40° nozzle is ideal for even cleaning without etching the surface.
• Surface Cleaner (Optional)—One of our personal favorite attachments, a surface cleaner provides uniform cleaning over larger areas. It’s also softer on joints, reducing the amount of polymeric sand that gets pulled out.

Test a Small Area

As with any cleaning method, test a small area first to ensure that your pressure washer is properly set up. High pressure can erode paving stones, especially those made of softer materials like natural stone pavers or clay bricks.

Some pavers may be sealed or colored; testing a small area may remove or fade the finish.

Clean the Pavers

Hold the pressure washer 12-18 inches away from the paver surface and move it in a consistent sweeping motion. Work in small sections at a time, 3×3 feet or similar, to maintain control and ensure even cleaning.

Step 4: Scrubbing and Rinsing

Use a Stiff Brush or Broom

Although optional, there are some cases in which an extra scrub may help. Look for stubborn stains, streaks, or efflorescence (white powdery residue) that can appear after power washing.

If the pavers look evenly cleaned, scrubbing is not required. You may skip it to avoid removing more sand between the joints than necessary.

Rinse with Garden Hose

After all the scrubbing and power washing, give your paver surface a rinse with a garden hose to wash away whatever material is left behind. Allow the pavers to fully dry, about 24-48 hours, before re-sanding and sealing.

Polymeric sand solidifies when exposed to water; completely drying your surface keeps the sand from sticking to unwanted surfaces.

Step 5: Re-Sanding Joints

Why Re-Sanding is Important

Polymeric sand is essential for locking together pavers, allowing contraction and expansion, and preventing the growth of weeds. It even helps to prevent water from seeping under your pavers, which causes shifting and damage.

Polymeric sand is essential in places like Connecticut, as the weather constantly changes.

How to Apply New Sand

Generously spread your polymeric sand over the surface of the pavers, focusing on areas where lots of material was removed. Take a dry, stiff, bristled brush and push the sand over the joints diagonally. You may have to make multiple passes before the joint is completely filled.

For an guide on which sand is best for your project, click here for a great resource describing the differences!

Compact the Sand

Compacting the sand pushes it further into the joints, showing sections that may require more. Take your time here, add more sand, and continue compacting until it doesn’t settle further in the joints.

Soak the Sand

Once your sand is compacted and swept, generously soak it with water using a garden hose. Water locks the sand in place, so ensure the whole surface is clean to avoid scraping sand later.

Step 6: Sealing the Pavers (Optional)

Why Seal Pavers?

Although not essential, sealing pavers can be very beneficial for their longevity. The right sealer can protect against stains and enhance color. Still, the process requires proper preparation to achieve the best results.

Choosing the Right Sealer

There are two main types of sealer to consider. Both have benefits and offer a variety of finishing options, including natural, wet, and high-gloss looks.

Water-Based Sealer— Easier to apply, environmentally friendly, and breathable.

Solvent-Based Sealer—Enhances color and provides stronger protection but may require more ventilation.

For a more in-depth look at the different sealer options, check out this great resource here!

Application Process

It’s always important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying sealers. A couple of tips help ensure an even application.

• Use a sprayer, paint roller, or brush for even application across your pavers.
• Work in small sections to avoid streaks.
• Apply a thin, even coat; oversaturation and pooling can cause discoloration.

Allow the first coat to dry for 1-2 hours (or per the manufacturer’s instruction), and check if a second coat is necessary. If you apply a second coat, do so in the opposite direction of the first one to ensure even coverage.

Maintenance Tips for Keeping Pavers Clean

Regular Sweeping

Regular cleaning is the simplest but best way to maintain pavers. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on pavers, leading to staining and discoloration. Regular cleaning also helps prevent weed growth and protects sand from erosion.

Prompt Stain Removal

Attacking stains as soon as possible helps minimize cleaning effort in the long run. Pavers are porous, meaning stains can soak and become harder to remove over time. Dealing with stains as soon as possible reduces the work you’ll have to do in the future.

Annual Deep Cleaning

A yearly deep clean is highly recommended to maintain your pavers’ appearance, durability, and overall condition. Preventing many long-term issues year after year will keep your pavers looking clean, preserve integrity, and increase curb appeal!

Conclusion

Summary of Steps

1. Prepare the Area—Remove furniture and décor, and hit the surface with a sweep to remove loose debris buildup.
2. Pre-Treat Stains—Identify stains and apply the correct cleaner for your purposes. Make sure to let it soak and thoroughly scrub.
3. Pressure Washing—Set up your pressure washer carefully and adequately clean the pavers, taking care not to leave streaks.
4. Post Scrub and Rinse—Optionally scrub the surface where some stains or debris remain, rinse whatever excess is left behind, and allow the surface to dry fully.
5. Re-Sanding Joints—Sweep polymeric sand and compact it into the joints where it has deteriorated or was removed during cleaning.
6. Sealing (Optional)—Reseal the pavers, working in small areas to ensure an even coating.

Benefits of Clean Pavers

Cleaning pavers is both aesthetically pleasing and beneficial for their lifespan. It enhances curb appeal and prevents staining and organic growth. Removing dirt and debris that may erode the pavers’ surface extends its life span, so you can enjoy your outdoor space for longer!

Final Tips and Recommendations

Clean Regularly—Sweep at least once weekly, and rinse with a garden hose as needed.

Use the Right Cleaning Products—Choose cleaning products based on the stain and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, avoid harsh chemicals like white vinegar or muriatic acid, as they can erode paver surfaces.

Maintain Joint Sand—Re-sand to stabilize the pavers and prevent weed growth.

Protect Your Surroundings—Cover plants, grass, and nearby surfaces before using strong cleaners to avoid harsh runoff that could damage surrounding areas.

Consider Sealing for Long-Term Protection—Sealing helps protect against stains, moisture, and UV fading.