How to Remove Stains from Pavers
After investing in paving stones, it is very helpful to know how to remove stains from them. Pavers are porous and can easily absorb stains. Even if sealants are applied to the paving stone surfaces or other protective measures are taken, stains and typical dirt deposits can still happen. It’s a good practice to regularly clean your pavers to maintain them and reduce long-term staining. You can remove and replace paving stones as a last resort, but try to remove the stains first before replacement is considered. Tuscany Pavers provides some helpful tips and general guidelines for removing stains from your paving stones.
How to Remove Oil Stains from Pavers
Wondering how to get oil off of your driveway? If oil/grease is freshly deposited, lightly blot the area to remove an excess. Do not rub the oil stains on pavers. Liquid dish soap or laundry detergent will remove most oil stains. Directly apply the soap to the stain and let it sit for 20-30 minutes, then scrub with a nylon bristle brush and rinse with hot water. Repeat until stain is gone.
If oil has dried and absorbed on pavers, soak up as much oil as possible and leave granular materials on the stained areas for roughly 6 hours and sweep up the material.
How to Remove Hard Water Stains on Pavers (Efflorescence)
The water stains on pavers that people refer to are from efflorescence. Efflorescence is caused when soluble salts in the pavers react with rainfall, humidity, and temperatures fluctuating. As the water evaporates, the salts come to the surface, creating a white power-like deposit on the pavers. Most manufacturers offer efflorescence remover. It can be somewhat abrasive, so make sure to test a small area first, and then clean the entire paver surface.
How to Remove Rust Stains on Pavers
If steel or iron items sit on or above paving stones for a period of time, rust stains may form. Removing rust stains on pavers requires a material that can damage sealers that have been applied and may cause some surface etching on pavers. That being said, you may want to apply the material to the entire pavers area for a uniform look. Test a small area first.
If possible, remove rusting metals from the area. Paver manufacturers often offer rust remover materials. Apply the material according to the directions and scrub the area with a soft, nylon bristle brush. Rinse thoroughly.
The best defense against paving stone stains is regular inspection. The longer a contaminant settles on a paving stone, the greater the potential for staining. Inspect the areas weekly. Also, clean the areas thoroughly a few times a year to prevent typical dirt from settling in. Don’t forget, if need be you can remove a stained section and replace them with new paving stones! Contact us today with any questions or further guidance.