Paver driveways have become increasingly popular in recent years for their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Yet, unlike a solid concrete driveway, pavers can become loose and weathered over time. When this happens, weeds, moss, mud, and other less-than-attractive growths can take hold in the cracks and crevices. Fortunately, cleaning a paver driveway is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours.
The easiest way to clean a paver driveway is to use a pressure washer. If you do not own a pressure washer, you can also rent one from a local hardware store. Before using a pressure washer on your pavers, it is important to make sure that the setting is on low. High-pressure water can damage the pavers and cause them to become loose.
So, if your paver driveway has lost some of its beauty over time, continue reading to learn how you can quickly and easily restore it to its former glory. This guide will explain how to clean a paver driveway using a pressure washer, as well as how to achieve the same effect using a garden hose and a stiff-bristled brush.
When to Clean Your Paver Driveway?
Ideally, you should clean your paver driveway in the spring after the last frost has passed. This is a great time to inspect the pavers for any potential damage or cracks caused by freezing temperatures. And, by clearing away any leftover debris from the previous fall, you can ensure that your pavers will look their best come summertime.
Of course, if your paver driveway is particularly dirty, you can clean it at any time of year. Just be sure to avoid cleaning it during freezing temperatures, as this can damage the pavers.
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How to Use a Pressure Washer?
If you have access to a pressure washer, you can quickly and easily wash your paver driveway in a matter of minutes. If you do not already own a pressure washer, we recommend heading to your nearest hardware store and asking if they have any rentals. This will greatly speed up the cleaning process and make it easier on your back.
To start, sweep any loose dirt, leaves, or debris from the surface of the pavers. This will help prevent the pressure washer from scattering these items around your yard. Next, fill the pressure washer with a cleaning solution designed for outdoor use. You can find this type of solution at most hardware stores. Then, set the washer to low-to-medium pressure.
Once the pressure washer is full, begin spraying the pavers in a back-and-forth motion, starting at one end of the driveway and working your way to the other. Be sure to hold the nozzle about 12 inches away from the surface of the pavers to avoid damaging them.
After you have finished washing the pavers, turn off the pressure washer and allow the pavers to air dry. Once they are dry, you can reapply a sealant to help protect the pavers and keep them looking new. You can do this using a roller brush or a similar low-pressure sprayer if you want to speed up the process.
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How to Wash Pavers Without a Pressure Washer?
If you do not have access to a pressure washer, you can still clean your paver driveway using a garden hose and a stiff-bristled brush. Start by sweeping away any loose dirt, leaves, or debris from the surface of the pavers. Then, attach a hose to a water source and turn the water on to medium-to-high pressure.
Next, hold the hose about 12 inches away from the pavers and begin scrubbing them in a back-and-forth motion. Be sure to use a brush with stiff bristles to help scrub away any caked-on mud, dirt, moss, or weeds. After you have scrubbed the entire driveway, turn off the water and allow the pavers to air dry. Then, you can apply a sealant as described above.
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What to Do if the Pavers are Damaged?
If you notice any cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged pavers, you will need to replace them before continuing with the cleaning process. To do this, you’ll need the following materials:
- Hammer: You will need a hammer to break up the old pavers so that they can be removed more easily.
- Trowel: A trowel will help you remove the old pavers and dig out any old mortar or concrete.
- Pry bar: If you’re struggling to dig out a broken paver with a trowel, a pry bar can help to leverage the old pavers out of their settings.
- New pavers: You will need enough new pavers to replace the damaged ones, plus a few extras in case any of the new pavers are damaged during installation.
- Mortar: You will need enough mortar to set the new pavers in place.
- A Bucket and water: You will need a bucket and some water to mix the mortar.
Start by using the trowel to remove any old mortar or concrete that is still clinging to the setting. Next, use the hammer and pry bar to leverage the old pavers out of their setting. Once the old pavers are removed, use the chisel to remove any remaining mortar or concrete from the setting.
Then, mix the mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions and use the trowel to apply it to the setting. Next, place the new pavers in the setting and use the trowel to press them into the mortar. Be sure to wipe away any excess mortar before it has a chance to dry.
Allow the mortar to dry for at least 24 hours before continuing. Once the mortar is dry, you can apply a sealant as described above.
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The Takeaway
Paver driveways are a beautiful and durable addition to any home. However, over time, they can become weathered and dirty. When this happens, it is important to clean the pavers to prevent further damage. Although it’s best to use a pressure washer, you can also use a stiff-bristled brush and a hose if you can’t rent or buy a washer of your own.