Congratulations on your new paver driveway, patio, or walkway! Pavers can add an elegant and durable touch to any outdoor area. Before you can sit back and admire your work, there is one important step to take: cleaning the newly installed pavers.
After-installation cleaning will remove any leftover construction materials and dirt. This will reveal the true beauty of your pavers and allow for sealing if desired. This comprehensive guide will show you how to clean your pavers and ensure a long-lasting finish.
Why Clean Pavers After Installation?
You should clean your pavers immediately after installation for several reasons:
- Remove construction debris: The installation process leaves behind dust, polymeric sand, and residual joint filling. These materials can cause pavers to look dull and prevent proper sealing.
- Expose True Color: A film or residue on the pavers can hide their natural color. Cleaning properly removes the barrier and allows vibrant colors to shine.
- Increase durability: Dirt, debris, and moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and efflorescence, a white powdery substance. This will extend the life of the pavers.
- Clean the surface before sealing (optional): A clean surface will ensure that sealant adheres well to your pavers.
Get Your Cleaning Supplies
Make sure you have all the tools and materials before starting the cleaning process:
- Brooms with stiff bristles: Use a broom that has strong bristles for removing dirt and debris.
- Bucket: You will need a large bucket to hold your cleaning solution.
- Rubber hose: A hose fitted with a sprayer is perfect for thoroughly rinsing pavers.
- Use a mild dish soap or degreaser. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage pavers.
- Scrub brush with stiff bristles (optional). This is useful for stubborn grime. Use it carefully to avoid scratching your pavers.
- Leaf blower: This is optional, but can speed up the drying process.
Wear eye and glove protection when handling cleaning products.
How to Clean New Pavers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let's get started!
- Pre-Cleaning: Sweep the paver surface thoroughly with a stiff-bristled brush. This will remove loose debris such as leaves, twigs, and polymeric sand.
- Prepare the Cleaning Solutions: Fill the bucket with water, and then add mild dish soap or paver cleaner according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Avoid a highly concentrated solution and aim for a lighter dilution.
- Use your hose and sprayer to thoroughly wet all the paver surfaces. This will help loosen dirt, and grime and prevent the cleaning solution from drying too fast.
- Scrub and rinse in sections: Clean in manageable segments to get a thorough clean. Pour a small quantity of cleaning solution on the pavers, and scrub in circular motions with a stiff-bristled brush or broom (if needed). Rinse thoroughly the area with water from your garden hose.
Tip: If you have stubborn stains, repeat the process of scrubbing with a cleaner that is slightly more concentrated. Test the cleaning solution first on a small area to make sure it won't discolor.
- Cleaning the Sand Joints: There may be residue left on the surface if polymeric sand has been used to fill in the joints of the pavers. Use a wet cloth or sponge after cleaning the pavers to remove excess sand.
- Final Rinse: After cleaning the paver area thoroughly, rinse it with clean water. This will remove any dirt or residue left behind by the cleaning solution.
- Drying: Let the pavers dry completely before stepping on them or putting furniture. Air drying may be sufficient depending on the weather. You can speed up the drying process if needed by using a leaf blower.
Pro tip: Do not clean pavers under direct sunlight. The heat will cause the cleaning solution, which is usually a cleaning agent, to dry out too fast, leaving potentially streaky marks.
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Additional Considerations
- Consult a professional company such as A Buff and Beyond Pressure Washing for stubborn stains. These professionals have the experience and equipment necessary to safely and effectively handle these situations.
- Sealing your pavers. After your pavers have been completely dried and are free of all cleaning residues, you may want to consider sealing them.
When to Call a Professional
Although cleaning pavers that have just been installed is a DIY project most of the time, there are some situations when seeking professional assistance might be prudent.
- A Buff and Beyond Pressure Washing, for example, has the experience and equipment necessary to safely remove stains on pavers.
- Large or Complex Areas - Cleaning large paver areas, or intricate designs is time-consuming. A professional cleaner can help you save time and get a thorough cleaning.
- Specialty Paver Material: Some paver materials like natural stone require special cleaning solutions and techniques. Consult a professional to ensure that the right cleaning techniques are used.
The Benefits of Hiring Professionals
- Professional paver cleaners are equipped with the necessary knowledge and expertise to deal with a variety of cleaning situations and ensure optimal results.
- Proper Equipment: They have the right cleaning equipment and tools, such as high-powered pressure washing machines, to get a thorough and effective clean.
- It's time-saving and efficient: A professional can clean pavers quickly, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
- You can have peace of mind knowing that your pavers will be cleaned by professionals.
Follow these simple steps to clean your new pavers. They will look beautiful and have a vibrant, long-lasting surface. A Buff and Beyond Pressure Washing is the best choice for any cleaning requirements, including those with stubborn stains or paver materials. Our team is fully equipped to tackle any paver cleaning challenges, making sure your patio, driveway, or walkway looks its best.