How to Clean and Maintain Concrete Patio Pavers

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  • 4-6 hours
  • Beginner
  • 20-200
What You'll Need
Push broom
Garden Hose
Mild Detergent
Squeezer
Liquid degreaser
Bleach
Paint stripper
Scrubber
Grouting
Sealer
Shovel
What You'll Need
Push broom
Garden Hose
Mild Detergent
Squeezer
Liquid degreaser
Bleach
Paint stripper
Scrubber
Grouting
Sealer
Shovel

Concrete patio pavers are popular and found in various outdoor areas. Relatively speaking, they are very durable and require little maintenance and upkeep. However, you still have to make sure to clean them well so as to maintain them in good condition. Follow the simple steps below to effectively clean your concrete pavers.

Step 1: Sweeping

It is important to regularly sweep the patio. Use a push broom to better collect the dust and dirt. If the pavers have unsealed edges and any cracks, you will need to more effectively remove any build-up. If there is ice or snow, you may need to use a shovel to remove them effectively. Should you opt to use ice-melt products because you feel that there is too much snow to shovel away, bear in mind that you will have to remove the puddles immediately afterward. Leaving a lot of melted ice on the pavers for a relatively long period of time will most likely cause damage to the pavers. Any sand or grit will have to be removed as well, and if mud developed it is best to wash it away.

Step 2: Inspection

Once the majority of the dirt has been swept or shoveled away, you should spend some time inspecting the pavers. You may notice areas that have cracked, or others where there are stains. Inevitably, you will need to act so as to treat or repair such problems.

Step 3: First Wash

Start off by rinsing the patio pavers with plenty of water, using a garden hose. The gush of water will help to remove the more persistent dirt. However, do not use too high a pressure as you might cause damage to the pavers. Add some mild detergent and scour the pavers with a push broom. Then, rinse with clear water and allow to dry well. Squeezing away the water with a squeezer will facilitate the drying upstage, especially if it does not happen to be a sunny day.

Step 4: Finding and Treating Stains

If there are any stains left after the first wash then it means you need to ascertain what kind of stain it is so as to better treat, and hopefully remove it. Mold stains can often be effectively removed by applying bleach to water and scrubbing well. In the case of oil stains, it is best to apply some liquid degreaser. Any paint stains should be scraped off or removed with paint stripper. Always try to use cleansers that are not acidic or made from chemicals that could harm the pavers' finish further. Discoloring or fading may result if you do not pay special attention in these cases.

Step 5: Repairing

Proper maintenance requires occasional repairing needs. Any cracks or holes need to be filled up to prevent the cracks from becoming larger or deeper. If weeds developed in any cracks, make sure to remove them immediately. Then, clean the cracks or holes from any dirt, residuals or loose stones. When done, fill them up with a suitable amount of grout. Smooth it well and allow it to dry. Then, apply a quality sealer per the manufacturer's instructions for improved luster and protection from the elements.