Brick pavers are an investment in your property’s beauty and durability. Whether you’ve just installed a new patio, driveway, or walkway, or have had your pavers for years, proper maintenance is key to making them last. Well-maintained brick pavers can stay as strong and attractive as the day they were installed—for 20 years or more.
If you want to keep your brick pavers looking great for years to come, contact the best masonry contractor in Mobile, AL, for expert advice and service.
Phone: (251) 283-5661
Email: contact@mobilemasonryal.com
1. Regular Cleaning
One of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain your brick pavers is to clean them regularly. Dirt, debris, and moss can build up over time, leaving your pavers looking dull and worn.
To keep them looking fresh:
- Sweep away debris: Use a broom to sweep off leaves, dirt, and other debris regularly.
- Pressure wash: Every six months or so, use a pressure washer to remove built-up grime and stains. Be careful not to use too high a pressure, as this can damage the paved surface.
Frequent cleaning keeps them looking nice and stops dirt from getting in the joints, which can lead to erosion.
2. Sealing for Extra Protection
Sealing is one of the best ways to protect them from water damage, stains, and wear. A good sealer will create a protective barrier that keeps your pavers looking like new while preventing weeds from growing in the joints.
- Choose the right sealer: When selecting a sealer, choose one that is compatible with your type of paver and the local weather conditions in Mobile, AL.
- Reapply every few years: Sealing is not a one-time task. You might need to reapply the sealer every two to three years, depending on the type you use, in order to keep the protective layer in place.
A properly sealed surface will resist stains from oil, food, and other substances, while also offering added protection against the harsh weather of Mobile.
3. Weed Control: Keep Those Joints Clean
Weeds can grow in the joints between pavers, which makes them look dirty and causes damage over time. To prevent weeds from taking root, follow these steps:
- Use a weed barrier: When installing your paver, ask your masonry contractor about using a weed barrier under the surface. It will prevent weed growth from the start.
Hand-pull weeds: If you notice any weeds, pull them out by hand or use a safe, non-toxic weed killer to eliminate them without harming your pavers.
4. Repair Cracks and Shifting Pavers Immediately
They may shift or crack over time, particularly if the ground beneath them settles or if they are exposed to severe weather conditions. Address these issues instantly to prevent further damage and maintain the structural integrity of the paver.
- Fix cracks: Small cracks can be filled with a suitable repair compound, while larger cracks may require the replacement of individual pavers.
- Reposition shifting pavers: If a paver shifts or becomes uneven, carefully remove and reposition them to restore the surface.
If you are not sure how to handle repairs, contact a professional masonry contractor in Mobile. They can provide expert advice and ensure your pavers are properly maintained.
5. Prevent Stains with Proper Care
One of the best ways to keep your brick pavers stain-free is to clean up spills as soon as possible. Whether it’s oil, food, or other liquids, cleaning it up promptly will prevent it from getting into the paved surface.
- Clean up spills immediately: For oil or grease stains, blot the spill with a paper towel, then clean the area with a paver-safe cleaner.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Use gentle, paver-safe cleaning solutions to avoid damaging the paved surface.
A little quick action can prevent stains from becoming permanent.
6. Ensure Proper Drainage
For your brick pavers to last a long time, water drainage is essential. Improper drainage can lead to erosion, cracks, and the eventual shifting of your pavers. To keep water away from the surface, make sure the area surrounding your pavers is properly sloped.
- Check for standing water: Regularly inspect your paver surface for signs of standing water, which can indicate a drainage issue.
- Install drainage solutions: If necessary, consider installing a drainage system or adding sand to the joints to help improve water flow.
In places like Mobile, AL, that receive a lot of rainfall, water damage is a common problem that can be avoided with proper drainage.
7. Hire a Professional
Some tasks are better left to the professionals, but routine cleaning and care can be done by you. Hiring a local masonry contractor in Mobile for periodic inspections or repairs can ensure that your paved area is properly maintained and remain in excellent condition.
By working with an experienced contractor, you can ensure that your brick pavers receive the highest level of care.
Ready to make your pavers last 20+ years? Contact Mobile Masonry Contractor today at (251) 283-5661 or email us at contact@mobilemasonryal.com to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Question(s)
To clean them, start by sweeping off dirt and debris. A pressure washer can help remove stubborn grime, but be cautious with the pressure to avoid damaging them. It is also a good idea to use a paver-safe cleaning solution to prevent staining. If you’re unsure, a contractor can help with regular cleaning and upkeep.
Yes! The humidity and occasional heavy rains in Mobile require extra attention to drainage and moisture control. Make sure the paved surface is properly sealed and maintaining good drainage will prevent long-term damage.
Basic tasks like sweeping and rinsing are easy to do yourself. But for deeper cleaning, sealing, and repairs, especially in Mobile’s weather, it’s smart to involve a local masonry contractor. They know how to extend the life of your pavement without causing damage.
