You may have brick, concrete or limestone pavement on your patio, driveway or almost any area that requires beautiful landscaping. Cleaning pavement is a chore that complements its presence. Since these typically are areas that hold the first impression, you may want to ensure that they are maintained in pristine condition. The better you maintain them, the better they would look. When maintained in good condition, they enhance the look of the place they adorn. This article discusses some quick tips you could follow for healthy pavements.
Tips to follow while cleaning pavements
When your pavements look dirty and have moss on them, you can clean them without making use of any harsh chemicals that are hazardous to the environment. Not only is this safe, it is also easy and quick. A high-pressure cleaner can be used with salt added to water while spraying. Although you can purchase such a cleaner for yourself for approximately $200, it is always better to hire the services of a professional cleaning service company.
In such cases, you may want to identify the kind of products that they use. Natural formulae are preferred to chemical usage.
Brick pavements are quite a popular choice but these are susceptible to mould, oil and food stains. Mould can make pavements slippery when they become wet. Power washing (as already discussed) is an effective means but pressure higher than 3000 psi is not recommended. Such high pressure can cause extreme damage to brick pavements. Cleaning mould while they grow offers good results.
Bleach solution can be used but one part bleach should be mixed with ten parts water. This solution can then be applied with a stiff bristle brush and later scrubbed. Bleach can cause permanent discoloration to some extent and hence you may want to try it in some less obvious corner before applying it everywhere. Stains that have been caused by petrol or oil products require usage of commercial cleaners or services of a professional.
When the stains are not so heavy, cleaning pavements is not a tough task. You have to thoroughly sweep them and wash them with a solution of household detergent and warm water. Spots that are tougher will need more focus.
To remove oil stains, leave kitty litter on them overnight and subsequently sweep up. Rust stains are quite difficult to remove. If the normal process of cleaning pavement does not work, purchase a product that is specifically designed for your paver.
Paint thinner helps in removing paint stains. Scrape out the stain meticulously with a rag. The area must then be cleaned thoroughly.
Pavements must be left to dry completely. A sealer specific to your paver should be applied. Periodic replacement of broken pavements, weeding and cleaning pavements will keep the area look new and fresh. Following the above-mentioned tips and few other suitable ones is a critical aspect that you may need to bear in mind. Safety is important and hence wear eye and hand gear to protect yourself.
Source by Mick Kennedy
