Exterior
Maintain paver and brick walkways or patios
Interlocking pavers move and drain differently than poured concrete. Joint condition, edge restraint and drainage matter more than making the surface look perfectly uniform.
Recommended timingInspect every spring; clean as needed
What to do
- Sweep away soil, leaves and organic debris, then use the paver manufacturer's approved cleaner and the gentlest effective method.
- Check for settlement, rocking units, tripping edges, spreading joints, failed edge restraints and water collecting or flowing toward the home.
- Replace missing joint sand with the type specified for the installed system; polymeric products require careful surface cleaning and application conditions.
- Remove weeds without damaging the pavers or nearby landscaping, and correct the joint or drainage condition that allowed repeated growth where practical.
- Do not apply sealer automatically. Confirm compatibility, appearance, slip resistance and preparation requirements with the paver manufacturer first.
Have significant settlement, drainage changes or unstable steps corrected by a qualified hardscape contractor.
Official guidance and sources
Product instructions and local requirements take priority for the equipment or material installed at your home.