Spring Paver Maintenance Tips

As the last traces of snow and ice melt away, vibrant flowers and lush greenery signal the welcome arrival of spring. But with this seasonal change comes a few challenges in the form of leftover debris, stubborn weeds, and the possibility of shifting pavers. But don’t worry! It’s all part of the transition, and we’re here to help you get your space back in shape. In this article, we’ll explore simple spring paver maintenance and cleaning tips for your pavers to keep your outdoor space looking beautiful all season long.

Spring Cleaning for Your Pavers

Cleaning your pavers in the spring follows the same process as any other time of year. However, the combination of melting snow, ice, and frequent spring rain can wash dirt, debris, and residue onto your surface, leaving it looking less than pristine.

Here’s how to keep your pavers looking their best:

• Clean your pavers with a soap and water solution or mild detergent, then gently scrub the surface with a soft-bristled broom or rinse it off with a garden hose. This method works well for most common spills and stains, including dirt, grime, and cooking spills like ketchup, grease, or wine.
• For mold, moss, or algae, mix equal parts water and bleach (or use boiled water) and apply it to the growth spots. Use a plastic scraper to remove any remaining residue.
• If you prefer a natural alternative, white distilled vinegar works well. Simply pour it over the affected area, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse it clean with water.
• For tougher stains, a pressure washer on a low setting can be effective. Using a fan-angled tip, hold your pressure washer at knee height, angling it at 45 degrees to avoid dislodging the joint sand.
• For pavers manufactured with EasyClean™ technology, cleanup is a breeze! The factory-applied, stain-resistant sealant ensures faster cleanup of spills and stains, saving you time and effort during your spring cleaning.

For more cleaning tips and best practices, check out our comprehensive Paver Cleaning blog.

Pluck Weeds to Keep Your Paver Surface Pristine

Let’s face it – rain or shine, weeds are just plain annoying and can make your patio look untidy. But the truth is, weed seeds often drift in from neighboring yards or fields, settling into the joints of your pavers and sprouting before you even notice.

To keep your surface looking its best, pluck out any weeds and sweep your pavers regularly to prevent new seedlings from taking root. A leaf blower is another great tool to clear away debris and send unwanted seeds packing before they have a chance to grow.

Inspect Pavers for Shifting or Cracked Units

Freeze/thaw cycles can cause pavers to heave or flex with seasonal temperature changes, which may lead to shifting or sinking and create potential tripping hazards. To prevent this, visually inspect your surface for “creep,” and check your edge restraints to ensure everything remains securely in place. While you’re at it, look for any cracked or chipped pavers and replace them with spare units you have on hand. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry out the damaged paver, removing any sand around the edges to make it easier to release. Once the old unit is out, top up and level your base material before setting the new paver in place, ensuring it sits flush with the rest of your patio.

Speak with your Unilock Authorized Contractor if you have any questions or need assistance with repairing edge restraints or replacing any cracked paver units.

Replenish Polymeric Sand and Seal Your Pavers

After cleaning and inspecting your paver surface for spills or damage, you’re ready for the final top-up of polymeric sand.

Seasonal freeze/thaw conditions can cause polymeric sand to become dislodged or erode over time. To fix this, carefully scrape out the failed sand to a depth of about 1 ½” to 2” to allow the new sand to bond properly with the existing sand and pavers. Sweep in fresh polymeric sand across the entire surface, filling the joints to about 1/8” below the beveled or rounded edge of the pavers. You may need to repeat this process in stages to achieve the correct depth. Finally, mist the sand with water to activate the binding agent, which helps lock the pavers in place. Always follow the manufacturer’s watering instructions to ensure the best results.

The next step is applying your sealer, which helps protect your pavers from surface wear while enhancing their vibrant color. Applying a sealer is entirely optional, as Unilock pavers are manufactured to be durable, with or without a sealer. If you decide to seal, be sure you’ve allowed enough time for the polymeric sand to cure, according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Before applying, make sure the surface is completely dry and free of any fines or residue. A sealer should only be used if you have a 24-48 window of dry weather in the forecast, as moisture from spring showers can compromise the sealer’s integrity. 

Depending on the product, surface conditions, and your personal preference, you can apply either a water- or solvent-based sealer using an application sprayer or dry foam roller. Be sure to spread it evenly across the entire surface, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies. Try to finish the job in one day, as pausing for breaks or resuming the next day may result in an uneven application or excessive layering in some areas. Once finished, allow 24-48 hours for the sealer to dry, depending on weather conditions, and avoid any foot or vehicular traffic on the surface. Paver sealers typically last about 3 to 5 years, helping preserve the integrity of your pavers through multiple seasons while reducing upkeep.

By staying on top of your spring paver maintenance, you can spend more time enjoying the beauty of the season without the hassle of constant cleaning. For year-round care tips, check out our general paver maintenance guide, packed with expert advice to keep your space looking its best. If you have any questions or need a personalized recommendation, give us a call at 1-800-UNILOCK or connect with a local Unilock Authorized Contractor.