Cleaning pavers can be a difficult task without the correct equipment.
Pavement is the most neglected part in a private property or public place. People tend to frequently use it but scant attention is paid to its upkeep and maintenance. Cleaning pavers regularly will keep them in good condition and give a beautiful appearance to the whole place.
Weeds, debris, and wear and tear can damage the pavement’s appearance by forming stains. Different types of stains require different cleaning approaches and it would be better to consult a professional for advice on these matters.
The pavement should be regularly swept with a broom. This will enable you to get a clear view of any change in appearance or damage to the pavement and then decide about the proper course of action. It will also prevent accumulation of debris.
Powdered detergent can be mixed in water and swiveled over the pavement. Use a hand held brush with tough bristles to wipe off any dirt or spots. For food and alcohol stains a neutral or organic cleaner has to be used. It has to be mixed with water and made into a solution. This solution has to be sprayed or swiveled on to the pavement and then washed off for optimal results.
If there are oil stains they have to be covered with saw dust or litter. After allowing sufficient time they should be removed and the pavement cleaned using bleach or any other appropriate cleaning product. Make sure that the products for cleaning pavers do not have any hydrochloric acid content as it can impart a rusty appearance to the pavement.
Rain water and water left over after cleaning pavers has to be removed immediately. Stagnant water leaves behind a whitish-yellow salt deposit on the pavement. This is referred to as efflorescence. This normally affects pavements made of clay and concrete. The pavement has to be swept with a broom and then washed thoroughly using a hose pipe to get rid of efflorescence.
You can mix white vinegar and water in 1:10 ratio and pour it on to the pavement. After ten minutes direct a jet of water using a hose pipe and wash off the solution before it dries.
You can also use a pressure cleaner or power washer for cleaning pavers to eliminate any stubborn lichens or other debris. Use the pressure cleaner as per the guidelines provided or you will end up spoiling the pavement rather than making it spotless.
Bleach of strength between 3 to 8 per cent can be used after diluting with water to clean pavements. Never use the thick gelatinous bleach as it might have other chemical constituents that will mutilate the appearance of the pavement.
Fill up sand in any of the loose joints and use a joint stabilizer to glue together any loose blocks of the pavement. Always make sure that the whole pavement is cleaned and not just the affected part as it will otherwise give a mottled appearance. Gather the debris obtained during cleaning pavers at one place and dispose it off properly.
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