For all the use they get, backyard patios require very little maintenance. Usually, a quick sweeping or washing every week or two is all they need. A couple of times a year, it is worth close inspection of your patio to see if more maintenance or repair tasks are needed. Fall and spring are the best times for this, before and after the effects of winter. Here are the steps for your annual patio spring cleaning and maintenance.
Inspect the Edges
Your patio stones or pavers should all be in place. If the spaces between pavers have grown wider, some repair is needed. If your patio has edge restraints, see if pavers have pushed the edging out of place. You may need to add more stakes or reinforcement. If you do not have edging and your pavers are shifting, it’s a good idea to install edging.
When making repairs around the patio perimeter, you will need to remove pavers that have shifted, as well as the joint sand between pavers. Replace the pavers; sweep sand into place.
Leveling the Surface
Is the surface of your patio smooth or have some pavers started to settle unevenly? Depending on how well the underlying soils were compacted, it is not unusual for some pavers to settle during the first couple of years after installation.
Use a hose to blast out the sand between the sinking pavers. A couple of screwdrivers may be needed to pry out the first paver. Remove the rest of the settled pavers and add sand or aggregate as needed, tamping it firmly into place. Replace the missing pavers; sweep in joint sand.
Clean Surface Stains
Even if there are no obvious stains, a good washing can upgrade the appearance of your patio. Pressure washing is one option, but it may wash out joint sand. Your paver supplier will have a manufacturer’s product specifically designed for your patio materials. Be sure you are using the correct cleaner for the type of pavers you have. An easy alternative solution is a little dishwashing liquid with warm water and a stiff brush.
Sealing Your Patio
After cleaning your patio pavers, you may want to seal them. This is not a twice per year task; every three or four years is usually enough. Sealing enhances the appearance of your pavers and gives them added protection from the elements. Again, use a product specifically designed for your patio materials. If at all possible, use the same sealer each time. Some sealers do not work well together. If you are not sure, do a test application on a single paver.
Replacing Joint Sand
If your patio has polymeric joint sand, it needs very little maintenance. Other types of sand are more likely to need topping off. Pull out any weeds that have popped up between pavers and sweep in new sand. Consider a sealer that is specially designed to stabilize joint sand. It will help to keep sand in place and reduce weed growth. Sand sealers are not needed if you already have polymeric sand.
That’s all there is to it. These few simple tasks will have your patio looking like new and ready for spring and summer activities.
If you require supplies or have any questions about patio maintenance, visit us now.