A pressure washer is a quick and effective way to remove stubborn dirt from paving slabs, but it’s not the only option. There are many ways to clean paving without the use of a clean paving without a pressure washer, including using baking soda and vinegar. This will lift dirt and stains from your pavers without damaging them, as long as you follow the instructions carefully.
Begin by removing any plant pots or patio furniture that are sitting on the pavers, this will prevent them from getting dirty marks from the cleaning process. Next sweep the area with a broom to remove any light debris and dirt from the surface of your paving slabs. If you have a leaf blower this is also an excellent tool to use to help remove the debris.
If your paving is looking particularly dirty then you should apply a biodegradable recommended paving cleaner, such as bleach or a diluted cleaning solution. This will lift the dirt from the paving slabs and kill any weeds, algae and moss, leaving you with a much-improved looking outdoor space. Make sure that you test the cleaning product on a small patch first to ensure that it’s compatible with your specific paving materials and doesn’t damage or etch the surfaces of your paving.
Vinegar is one of the best options for cleaning paving if you want to avoid the use of chemical products, as it’s non-toxic and environmentally friendly. However, it’s important to note that this method will leave your paving with an acidic smell, and it may also discolour certain types of paving stones, so it isn’t suitable for all situations. It’s recommended that you mix your vinegar with water, and then spray or pour it over the paving slabs, leaving it to work its way into the surface of the paving for 30 minutes or so. It is then advisable to brush the paved area thoroughly, and to rinse it clean afterwards.
Once the paving has had a chance to dry, it’s essential that you check for any lost joint sand and re-fill these gaps with kiln dried sand. This will help the paving to retain its shape and prevent it from sinking or cracking over time.
It’s also a good idea to use an outdoor broom and scrub brush to wash away any remaining dirt from the surface of the paving slabs, making sure that you get all of the nooks and crannies. Rinse the paving completely with water and allow it to dry completely before returning any furniture or plants. The end result will be a stunningly cleaned and refreshed outdoor space, ready for a summer of barbecues and al fresco dining. The effort will be well worth it!