How to Maintain a Paver Patio

The sand between pavers locks the units together and helps prevent shifting. Over time, wind, rain, and foot traffic can wash out or compact this sand, so checking and topping it off periodically keeps the patio stable and prevents weeds from establishing in the gaps.

Sweeping regularly and occasionally washing the surface removes dirt, algae, and organic buildup that can make pavers slippery or discolored over time. A pressure washer can be used with caution — too much pressure or the wrong nozzle angle can dislodge joint sand, so lower settings and a wider fan tip are generally safer.

Weeds and moss can take root in paver joints, especially in shaded or damp areas. Regular sweeping, prompt removal when weeds appear, and maintaining adequate joint sand all help prevent this from becoming a bigger problem.

If a section of the patio develops an uneven spot or dip, it usually means the base beneath that area has settled. One of the advantages of pavers over poured concrete — see Pavers vs. Concrete: Which Is Better for a Patio? — is that this section can typically be lifted, the base corrected, and the pavers reset without redoing the whole patio.

Sealing is not required but can enhance color, reduce staining, and make cleaning easier. If you choose to seal your pavers, it is typically reapplied every few years depending on sun exposure and traffic.