What is the best way to clean outdoor pavers?

Outdoor pavers can quickly become dirty from the elements, foot traffic, and debris. While some homeowners choose to pressure wash their pavers, this isn’t always the most effective or safest method. When looking for the best way to clean outdoor pavers, it’s important to consider the type of pavers, the extent of dirt and stains, and using proper cleaning techniques and solutions to get the job done right.

What are the different types of outdoor pavers?

There are several common types of pavers used in outdoor hardscaping:

• Concrete pavers – These are often called brick pavers and made from concrete. They have a rectangular shape and come in a variety of colors and textures.
• Natural stone pavers – Flagstone, travertine, bluestone, granite and marble are examples. These pavers have an irregular shape and natural variations in color.
• Clay brick pavers – Made from clay and fired, these have a brick shape and red/terracotta color generally.
• Porcelain pavers – These are manmade from porcelain material meant to mimic the look of natural stone.
• Glass pavers – For a unique decorative look, glass pavers in colors like blue or green are an option.

The cleaning method you choose may depend on the paver type, as some natural stone is more porous than concrete. Always check the paver manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning.

What causes dirt and stains on outdoor pavers?

There are many culprits that can make outdoor pavers look grimy and stained over time:

• Dirt, soil and mud
• Pollen and tree debris like leaves, sap and berries
• Mold and mildew
• Algae and moss growth
• Rust stains from metal furniture or fixtures
• Oil drips from vehicles
• Food and drink spills like wine, coffee and grease stains
• Chewing gum
• Pet urine

Lighter colored pavers will show staining more than darker options. Areas with shade, excessive moisture and poor drainage are prone to algae, mold and mud. High traffic zones around entrances and furniture are more likely to get grimy from foot prints.

How to Clean Outdoor Pavers

Here is an overview of methods for cleaning outdoor pavers:

Sweeping

For light dirt, simply sweeping debris off pavers with a stiff outdoor broom is a good first step. You can also use a vacuum with an appropriate attachment to suck up dirt from the crevices.

Hosing

Use a garden hose with a high pressure nozzle to spray off pavers. Let the water do most of the work to blast off mud and stuck-on debris. Aim the stream at an angle to avoid forcing dirt deeper into crevices.

Mopping

For flat pavers like concrete, use a stiff bristle outdoor mop wetted with hot water to scrub the surface. You can add a bit of mild dish soap or laundry detergent to help cut through oily grime.

Cleaning solutions

There are specially made paver cleaners that can help remove stains. Always check that the product is safe for your type of pavers. Here are some options:

• Poultice cleaners – These powdered cleaners are mixed with water to make a paste that is spread over the paver surface and left to dry. The poultice pulls out deep stains which is then rinsed away with water. Useful for oil and rust stains.
• pH balanced cleaners – Look for products labeled suitable and safe for natural stone, concrete, and clay pavers. The pH balanced formula deep cleans without damaging the pavers.
• Oxygen bleach cleaner – Non-chlorine based cleaners with oxygen bleach help brighten pavers and remove organic stains from mold, mildew and algae.
• Heavy duty degreaser – For stubborn oil and grease spots, a degreasing agent can break them down so they can be cleaned away.

Always read all safety instructions before using a cleaning product on your pavers.

Pressure washing

Pressure washers should be used with caution on outdoor pavers. The high pressure spray can damage softer surfaces and force grime deeper into pores. Consider these tips if pressure washing:

• Ensure the pressure is compatible for the paver type, 1500 psi or less is recommended.
• Use a wide-angle tip and keep 12-18 inches between the surface to avoid damage.
• Rinse pavers before and after washing to prevent driving dirt into the crevices.
• Take care around the paver edges which can be vulnerable to blasting out.
• Allow the area to completely dry out before sealing or returning furniture.

Tips for Preventing Dirt on Pavers

No matter how well you clean them, outdoor pavers will get dirty again sooner or later. Here are some tips to help prevent dirt and stains:

• Install an outdoor mat at entrances to collect dirt and moisture from shoes.
• Use furniture feet pads under chairs and tables to prevent scuffing.
• Remove leaves, debris and weeds promptly to avoid staining.
• Ensure proper drainage to avoid standing water that leads to algae and mud.
• Reseal natural stone pavers periodically to protect from stains.
• Rinse spills immediately before they have time to set.
• Keep tree branches trimmed to reduce leaves, sap drips and berries falling on pavers.

How to Remove Common Stains from Pavers

For stubborn stains that require more elbow grease, here are some tips for removing the most common paver stains:

Oil and grease stains

• Spray stain with degreasing cleaner or blot with degreasing paste.
• Use an absorbent like cat litter or baking soda to draw out the oil.
• Scrub with bristle brush and rinse thoroughly.

Rust stains

• Apply a commercial rust remover or oxalic acid solution.
• Allow to sit for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing off.
• For tough stains, the poultice method may be required.

Mold and mildew stains

• Spray with an outdoor cleaner containing bleach or oxygen bleach.
• Use a stiff bristle scrub brush to work the solution into stained areas.
• Let it sit briefly before rinsing thoroughly.

Berry and leaf stains

• Mix hot water and oxygen bleach cleaner to spray on stained spots.
• Scrub with a wire outdoor brush.
• Rinse completely and repeat if needed for stubborn stains.

Wine and coffee stains

• Blot up any excess staining liquid immediately.
• Spray with an alkaline cleaner to neutralize the acidity.
• Scrub and rinse completely.

Chewing gum stains

• Freeze gum with ice or an aerosol cold spray to harden it.
• Chip away gum with a plastic scraper or putty knife.
• Use cooking oil or WD-40 to remove any remaining gum residue.

Pet urine stains

• Mix water and distilled white vinegar 1:1 and spray generously on the stain.
• Allow it to soak in for 5-10 minutes.
• Rinse well and allow to fully dry.

When to Call a Professional for Paver Cleaning

For severely stained, dirty pavers or large areas, it may be best to call in a professional paver cleaning and sealing service. Signs it’s time to hire help include:

• Buildup of dirt, grime, mold or moss across a large percentage of the pavers.
• Deeply embedded stains that resist normal cleaning efforts.
• Damaged or deteriorating joint sand that requires re-sanding.
• A desire to thoroughly clean and seal the pavers to restore their appearance and maintain them.

Look for a reputable company experienced in working with various paver types. They will have the right equipment, like commercial pressure washers, along with products and processes to deep clean pavers, repair joints and apply fresh sealant. This can restore the beauty of your outdoor living space.

Conclusion

Keeping outdoor pavers looking like new requires routinely removing dirt, debris and stains. For best results, tailor your cleaning method to the paver type and mess at hand. Routinely sweeping up debris, spraying off dirt and addressing stains immediately will help your pavers maintain their beauty. For routine deep cleaning or heavily soiled pavers, calling a professional service can restore your pavers’ clean appearance and protect them with fresh sealant.