How to Clean and Seal a Paver Patio

Patios are the workhorses of the backyard, but they take a beating from the sun, rain, and shifting soil. Over time, paver joints wash out, weeds take root, and the surface dulls under a layer of organic buildup. A neglected patio isn't just an eyesore; it's an invitation for moss and structural settling that can lead to uneven, trip-prone surfaces. Restoring your pavers isn't about replacing the stone, but rather resetting the foundation and sealing the surface. When done well, you aren't just cleaning; you are locking the sand in place and creating a hydrophobic barrier that keeps the pavers looking brand new for seasons to come. It is a labor-intensive weekend project, but it pays off with a patio that resists weeds and stains while standing up to the elements.

1. Strip the Space First. Remove all patio furniture and pots. Use a stiff wire brush or a specialized weeding tool to pull out any vegetation growing between the joints.
2. Blast Away Years of Grime. Apply a paver-specific cleaner to the entire patio. Use a pressure washer on a wide-fan setting to remove dirt, algae, and mold, working in sections to prevent the soap from drying prematurely.
3. Patience Prevents Failure. Allow the patio to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. Sealing a damp patio traps moisture inside the stone, which causes the sealer to turn milky or fail prematurely.
4. Fill Every Gap Completely. Spread fine polymeric jointing sand across the patio using a push broom. Sweep it back and forth until every gap between the pavers is filled to the bottom level of the chamfered edge.
5. Activate the Binding Polymers. Mist the patio lightly with a garden hose set to a fine shower. This activates the polymers in the sand, causing it to harden and bind the pavers together.
6. Lock in Protection and Shine. Using a pump sprayer and a roller, apply an even coat of penetrating paver sealer to the dry surface. Start at the highest point and work your way to the edges, ensuring no puddling occurs.