Paver Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners
Brick and stone pavers give Central Florida homes a luxurious tropical appearance. They are also much more durable than standard asphalt driveways or concrete slabs. While they are low-maintenance, the Florida heat and humidity require a little TLC to prevent fading or overgrowth. Use this handy checklist to maintain your curb appeal year-round.
Inspect for Damage
Once a month—especially after a heavy summer thunderstorm—look for cracked pavers, settling, or shifting edges on your driveway or patio. Invasive tree roots or soil erosion from heavy rain can often shift or sink pavers, creating tripping hazards.
Weed and Algae Control
Our humid climate is a breeding ground for weeds and green mold in the joints between pavers. Pull weeds by hand or use a pet-safe herbicide. When green algae or moss forms in shaded areas, you can make a simple natural algaecide: mix three parts distilled water with 1 part white vinegar to help clear it up before it spreads.
Regular Cleaning & Debris Removal
Don’t let fallen leaves, pine needles, or grass clippings sit on your pavers. When these organic materials get wet, they can release tannins that permanently stain the stone. To remove loose dirt, use a garden hose and a stiff-bristle broom with mild dish soap. Deep stains may require professional pressure washing.
Top-Off Joint Sand
The polymeric sand between your pavers is what keeps them locked in place. Heavy Florida downpours can slowly wash this sand away. If there are deep gaps between the stones, sweep in new joint sand to prevent shifting and discourage weed growth.
When You Need Professional Help
While DIY cleaning is excellent for general upkeep, some tasks require the expertise of a paver expert to protect your investment.
Damaged or Loose Pavers
When there are “sunken” areas where water pools, or pavers are cracking under the weight of a vehicle, it’s time to call a pro. This usually indicates a failure in the sub-base that needs to be leveled and re-compacted.
Professional Sealcoating
In Florida, UV rays can bleach the color out of your pavers. A professional sealant locks in the joint sand, prevents weed growth, and restores the “wet look” of the stone. Reapply the sealant every 3 to 5 years.
Pressure Washing & Stain Removal
Not all pressure washing is safe for your decorative brick pavers. The professionals at Keystone Pavers & Outdoor Living use a combination of low-pressure, environmentally safe surfactants and degreasers to lift deeply embedded mold and grime without damaging the pavers.
Call Keystone for Paver Maintenance & Cleaning in Central Florida
Keep your paver installation looking its best with premier maintenance from Keystone Pavers & Outdoor Living. We specialize in fixing broken pavers, leveling settled areas, and providing expert sealing and power washing services. Serving property owners, builders, and contractors from Tampa to Lakeland—including Winter Haven, Bloomingdale, Dunedin, and Clearwater.
