A brick paver patio accentuates an outdoor living space while also adding functionality. But brick pavers can become lodged with dirt from muddy shoes, windblown debris, and standing water. Cleaning the brick paver patio is essential to maintaining its crisp lines and extending its lifespan.
A lack of routine maintenance can lead to the pavers loosening or becoming uneven. Regularly cleaning the brick paver patio is necessary to maintain its rich, natural color and prevent the pavers from looking worn and dirty. Especially on the patio, pavers can get soiled from food spills.
1. Gather Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning the brick paver patio requires household tools, many of which homeowners already have around. Gather a garden hose, broom, handheld sprayer, bucket, sponge, scrub brush, and tarps. A mild cleaning solution is also necessary to get the cleaning done.
2. Choose a Temperate Day
Pick a clear, temperate day to clean the brick paver patio. The temperature should remain at 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above and stay above freezing for a week. Avoid cleaning on hot summer days, since the cleaning solution can dry too quickly and leave residue on the brick.
3. Clear the Patio
Relocate furniture, grills, potted plants, and any other items from the patio that block access to the pavers. Upon seeing weeds or plants sprouting from between the pavers, pull them out—being careful to avoid loosening the pavers or damaging them with weed removal tools.
For more tips on cleaning your patio and furniture, read How to Clean Mold from Patio Furniture Cushions
4. Protect the Landscape
Weeds growing in between pavers can damage them over time. Applying an anti-weed solution is recommended to deter unwanted growth and damage. Protect nearby vegetation from the cleaning solution and weed killer overspray by placing tarp over the surrounding landscape.
5. Choose a Cleaning Solution
Mild dish soap is a go-to cleaner for brick paver patios because they do not damage the brick, they tackle stains effectively and they are readily available at home. White vinegar is ideal for mildew. Clean away moss and lichen buildup with a mix of bleach and water.
Commercial products are effective, too; however, avoid harsh cleaners with acidic properties. When mild cleaners fail to remove stains, move up to more powerful solutions. First test the preferred cleaner in an inconspicuous spot and allow it time to dry to ensure the pavers do not discolor.
6. Wet the Patio
Hose down the brick pavers with plain water, giving them a thorough rinse. Saturating the surface before cleaning allows the cleaning solution to stay on the brick rather than be absorbed. If the pavers soak up the cleaning solution, they can develop a murky film.
7. Apply the Cleaning Solution
Apply the cleaning solution by using a bucket and sponge, a hand-held sprayer, or a watering can. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s product label, which suggests how many minutes are required for the solution to loosen dirt and sticky food particles.
8. Scrub the Pavers
Clean small sections at a time to avoid letting the cleaning solution dry. Scrub the brick pavers in a circular motion with the bristle brush to remove dirt and grime. Avoid scrubbing too hard, since the objective is to remove only surface-level dirt and stains.
9. Rinse the Bricks
A pressure washer is not recommended for rinsing brick pavers because it can remove the paver sealant. The high-powered water used in pressure washing can also break, crack, or otherwise damage the brick pavers. It is safer to rinse with water from a garden hose.
When using a garden hose to rinse the cleaning solution off the surface, be sure to use moderate pressure. Rinse the brick pavers thoroughly to ensure no cleaning residue is left behind. If using a power washer is desired for its extra cleaning power, opt for a low-pressure washer.
10. Fix or Replace Pavers
While cleaning the pavers, it’s a good time to check for damage. Apply new grout to areas where the existing grout appears damaged. Gaps may emerge in between the pavers when the joint material deteriorates. Add sand or gravel to improve the stability of the pavers.
11. Add a Paver Sealant
Brick pavers can fade or dull over time. Adding paver sealant helps protect the bricks from the damaging effects of the sun and other weather conditions. Plus, after applying the sealant, the bricks are easier to maintain and clean—which helps extend their lifespan and keeps them looking new for years.
Cleaning a brick paver patio should be done properly. Avoid scrubbing with wire or steel brushes, which strip away the existing sealant. Acidic cleaners also compromise the sealant and the pavers’ longevity. Use bleach cautiously, as high concentrations can discolor the brick pavers.
Brick pavers are strong, long-lasting materials, making them excellent choices when building a patio or other outdoor living space. When you seek to enjoy your home to the fullest by building a gorgeous patio, choose Pavestone Brick Paving, Inc, for premium patio installation services.
As a patio contractor invested in bringing your vision to life, we discuss your ideas, recommend features, and give you options, from brick pavers to natural slabs. Our interlocking Unilock brick pavers come in a wide range of beautiful colors, textures, styles, and sizes to match any desired aesthetic.
Strong and durable, brick pavers can be laid out in unique patterns. We treat the surface with coatings, so it resists weathering from the harsh elements as well as stains and dirt. In the event your patio requires maintenance, we are available for cleaning, repairs, and seal coating the surface.
We provide a 3D model for you to review prior to the commencement of the exciting build. Once you make any changes and approve the rendering, our crews start the installation. Our attention to the fine details of the design and installation helps our company stand out from the rest.
If you aim to build a new patio to upgrade your Des Plaines, Illinois, home, Pavestone Brick Paving, Inc, will turn your dreams into reality. Our satisfied customers appreciate our responsiveness, dedication to quality workmanship and impeccable customer service. Call us today to build your brick paver patio.
