Paver Maintenance 101: What You Need to Know

July 29

Like porches and balconies, backyards tend to get dirty and require cleaning more frequently than any indoor area of your property. This is especially true when it comes to paving stones, seeing as they’re the part of your yard that gets stepped on most often.  If the paver installers who originally equipped your San Diego property with your paving stones did not explain to you how to thoroughly clean your pavers (or if you’ve simply forgotten how to do it) read on to the end of this article. We will provide you with a few time-tested tips on how to keep your pavers sparkling clean all year long.

How can I make my pavers look new again?

Before you can start scrubbing, you need to first remove the moss from the pavers. Once you’ve done that, you can proceed to clean the pavers themselves using one of these tried-and-true cleaning methods:
  • Soap and water – One of the best options is still the traditional method of cleaning with soap and water. Dip a bar of soap in a bucket of water (you can also use dishwashing detergent) and gently scrub the pavers with a clean brush.
  • Vinegar and water – A 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water is a great natural cleaning solution. Soak the pavement with and let it sit for an hour. Then, gently rub the stone with soap to remove the vinegar. Keep in mind that you should never use black vinegar, as its acidity can permanently stain the stone or otherwise damage it. 
  • Commercial cleaner – You can also use commercial products that are specifically designed for paver stones or concrete surfaces. If you opt for this option, make sure that the cleaning agent does not contain toxic or abrasive chemicals. Once you’ve found a reliable cleaner, apply it by following the instructions printed on the bottle.

Can you power wash pavers?

Power washing (also known as pressure washing) is also a very effective method by which you can remove dust deposits and various stains from your pavers. Just make sure that the water jet is not directed directly at the joints between the paving stones. A strong jet of water can damage the pavers, dislodge them from their positions, and break sand out of the joints.  Do not panic if you see traces of sand strewn around after pressure washing, as this is normal. Keep in mind that the joints must be supplemented with polymer sand after the pavers have dried. It is a good idea to perform the cleaning in warmer weather, because pavers can get very hot in the sun, which means that they will dry quickly and well.

Can you power wash paversWhere can I find reliable paver installers in San Diego?

Installing and maintaining pavers is certainly not an easy task and it is good to have someone to guide you or help you. If you need an experienced team of professionals who can install pavers even in the rain, contact Pacific Dreamscapes. We’re a reputable landscaping company in San Diego that boasts a team of experienced landscapers and uses high-quality materials and equipment to ensure optimal results at all stages of a job. In addition to pavers, we can also enhance your backyard with state-of-the-art water features, porches, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, xeriscapes, koi pools, and more.  Leave the hard work to our experts and enjoy a family trip to the San Diego Zoo while we provide you with the gorgeous backyard you’ve always wanted. Contact us today if you’d like to book a consultation or learn more about why we’re the best!