Looking to add some curb appeal to your home in Seattle, WA? One of the best budget-friendly ways to improve the look of your property is by cleaning and maintaining your cobblestone pavers. Whether you have cobblestone walkways around your home or a cobblestone patio in your backyard, keeping these features in good condition goes a long way toward allowing you to enjoy your property to the fullest. Read on to learn the basics about what it takes to clean and maintain these cobblestone surfaces.
Sweep away dirt and debris
When it comes to cleaning and maintaining cobblestone-paved patios and walkways, the first thing you should do is remove all dirt and debris. Sweep it away with a broom or use a leaf blower to clear everything away quickly. Built-up debris can break down pavers, so take care to remove debris whenever you see it.
Stay away from the power washer
You might be tempted to use a power washer to remove any stubborn dirt or grime on your paved walkways or patio. However, you should never use a power washer on cobblestone surfaces, since it can cause significant, visible damage. Power washers can pit and degrade the surface of these stones, permanently changing their appearance.
Instead, take the time to spot clean any areas with stubborn stains. Use a deck brush to gently work a mild detergent into these spots. Let the detergent work its way into the stones for several minutes, then rinse it away with a hose. You should see a big improvement in the appearance of your patio or walkway.
Remove all weeds
When it comes to patios and walkways, there’s nothing more unsightly than pesky weeds that come up through the cracks. Use a natural solution like vinegar and water to kill the weeds. Not only is this gentle on the pavers, but it’s also safe for pets and your family. After you get rid of any weeds, fill in the cracks between the pavers with polymeric sand. It holds the pavers together and prevents weeds from coming back.
Apply a paver sealant
Once you have all your paving stones looking uniformly clean and you’ve taken care of any weeds, apply a surface sealant to protect their appearance. You can find a quality sealant at your local hardware store, and it’s easy to apply it yourself with a low-pressure sprayer. Make sure the surfaces are completely dry, and that your area won’t receive rain for at least 24 hours. As you apply the sealant, use a squeegee to work the sealant into the joints and remove the excess sealant from the surface.
Cobblestone pavers add charm and character to your home in Seattle, WA, but only if they’re clean and well maintained. By following the steps above to clean and maintain cobblestone pavers, you’ll give your property a curb appeal boost and increase your enjoyment of your outdoor spaces. Contact Stewart Lumber & Hardware Co. to learn more about what it takes to keep features like walkways and patios looking their best.