How to Maintain Cobblestone Paver Driveways

A cobblestone paver driveway is a style that has been around since the Roman Empire was in existence, possibly even longer. A cobblestone paver driveway is not smooth. The stones are rounded at the tops and this is part of the charm. They not only provide a classical look to the home, but it can add value to it. Maintaining this type of driveway is not difficult to do, because the cobblestones are very sturdy and easy to deal with.

Step 1 - Do Initial Cleaning

Make sure nothing is sitting on the driveway before you begin cleaning it. Once it is free of all objects, sweep it down with a broom. Remove any loose dust, dirt, gravel, leaves, and twigs that may have found their way on it over the weeks since you last cleaned it. Once the debris is removed, hose it down. Allow the driveway to dry before continuing.

Step 2 - Address Mud and Dirt

A cobblestone paver driveway sees a lot of abuse, from cars driving on it, and people walking on it. This can track mud on to the cobblestones, which can dry and become hard. A simple sweeping and hosing down will not always remove this mud, so you need to scrub it. Pour soap in a bucket with warm water and scrub the driveway. Let the soap sit on in for several minutes, before hosing it off.

Step 3 - Clean Stains

A cobblestone paver driveway will be susceptible to stains, primarily from oil, coolant, and gasoline. Choose a cleaner that is safe for stones, and then simply follow the directions on the container. Each cleaner may be different, which makes following their instructions paramount to successfully removing stains.

Step 4 - Clean Edges and Joints

Sand is used to seat the cobblestones, but is also used along the edges of the driveway. Once this sand erodes, the cobblestones along the edge of the driveway can become loose. Pour sand around the edges of the cobblestone paver driveway and then tamp it down. Add more sand as needed. You can also wet down the sand, to compact it further and increase its strength. If your cobblestone paver driveway has spaces between the pavers, then place the sand on top of the driveway and repeat the process.

Step 5 - Seal It

Sealing a cobblestone paver driveway is optional because cobblestones wear naturally to a beautiful finish. Sealing them is mainly to protect them from being stained. Choose a sealer suitable for stone, and then apply it with a paintbrush in a thin layer. Use light brush strokes to prevent streaks. Wait for the sealer to dry for a day, and then apply a second coat to the cobblestone paver driveway.