Clean pavers by sweeping regularly, rinsing with water, and treating stains by type. Use a soft wash or a low-pressure rinse rather than a hard blast, since high pressure can strip joint sand and damage the surface. After a deep clean, check the joints and re-sand if needed.

How do you do routine cleaning?

•Sweep off leaves, dirt and debris.

•Rinse with a hose, working from the house outward so water runs away.

 •Use a mild soap and a soft brush on dirty spots, then rinse well.

•Check the joints for low sand, weeds or moss.

Doing this regularly prevents buildup and keeps stains from setting.

How do you remove common stains?

•Oil and grease: blot fresh spills right away, cover with an absorbent like cat litter or sand, then use a paver-safe degreaser.

•Rust: use a rust remover made for pavers. Do not use bleach, which can set rust stains.

•Leaves and organic stains: sweep promptly, since tannins from leaves can leave marks. Mild soap and a brush usually work.

•Algae, mildew and moss: common in shade and humidity. A soft wash with a suitable cleaner usually works.

Test any cleaner on a small hidden spot first, and follow the label.

Soft wash or pressure wash?

•Soft wash pros: low pressure with a cleaning solution, gentler on pavers and joint sand, and good for algae and mildew. Cons: may need dwell time and more than one pass on heavy stains.

•Pressure wash pros: fast, and effective on stubborn dirt. Cons: can blast out joint sand, etch or damage the surface, and push water under the pavers. If you use one, keep the pressure low, use a wide fan tip and keep the wand moving.

What should you avoid?

•Very high pressure or a zero-degree tip.

•Bleach and harsh acids without checking they suit your pavers.

•Wire brushes and metal scrapers.

•Letting spills sit.

•Using de-icing or harsh chemicals.

When should you re-sand?

Cleaning can wash out joint sand, and low sand lets pavers shift and weeds grow. After the pavers dry, sweep polymeric or joint sand into the joints, compact it and sweep off excess, following the product directions. Sealing is optional and depends on the paver. Re-sanding and sealing are part of patio maintenance, a separate service from installation.

What about Lowcountry conditions?

On Edisto Island and across the Lowcountry, humidity, heavy summer rain and shade encourage algae, mildew and moss. Salt air near the coast can add residue, so regular rinsing helps. Heat can speed up stains, so deal with spills quickly. Good drainage also keeps pavers cleaner, since standing water breeds algae. If you are in an HOA community, check rules before using chemicals or sealers.

Frequently asked questions

•How often should I clean pavers?

Sweep often and do a deeper clean as needed, such as once a year or when algae shows.

•Can I use bleach on pavers?

It is not recommended without checking compatibility. It can discolor some pavers and set rust stains.

•Why are weeds growing in my pavers?

Joint sand has likely washed out. Re-sanding helps.

•Need help with a patio?

If you are on Edisto Island or in the surrounding Lowcountry, we are happy to take a look. Every project starts with a free design and build estimate: an on-site visit, three price points for the same scope of work, and a custom 3D design once the project is booked. Every paver install includes a 10-year workmanship warranty. No pressure.