Your Guide: Getting Your Pavers Back to the Original Color and Reversing Discoloration

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One common question from homeowners is, how do I get my pavers back to the original color? Over time, pavers tend to fade and look washed-out. Also, thick dust and dirt can give them a grayish or dark look that detracts from your outdoor space.

To get pavers back to the original color:

• Use mold and mildew removers.
• Try color enhancing products meant for pavers.
• Re-sand the joints.
• Invest in regular soft wash paver cleaning and sealing.

If you’re still curious about “how do I get my pavers back to the original color,” keep reading! Some added details about each of these solutions can help. Also, a power washing contractor can provide added advice for your property. They can assess your pavers and note the best way to restore their overall appearance.

How Do I Get My Pavers Back to the Original Color

Over time, pavers can become discolored or faded. This is due to everyday wear as well as exposure to the elements, dirt, stains, and other factors. In turn, the more you use those pavers, the sooner they might fade!

Also, properties in areas with inclement weather or harsh sunlight might see paver fading more readily. However, you don’t always need to replace them. To restore your pavers to their original color, consider some suggestions:

Clean the Pavers

Start by thoroughly cleaning the pavers to remove dirt, debris, and stains. You might be surprised at how a thorough cleaning restores paver appearance. Also, if there are stubborn stains, use a mild detergent or a specialized paver cleaner. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage.

After cleaning, ensure you rinse thoroughly. Leftover detergent can attract dirt, making pavers look worse than before. Thorough rinsing also removes the most dirt possible, for a better appearance overall.

Stain Removal

Don’t assume that stains on pavers are permanent. Use appropriate stain removers for specific stains such as oil, rust, or organic materials. Test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the product doesn't cause any damage. Additionally, don’t use too much cleanser as this can also damage pavers easily.

Moss and Algae Removal

If your pavers have developed moss, algae, or other organic growth, this can make them look faded and dull. To address this issue, use a mixture of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water to kill the growth. Scrub the affected areas gently with a scrub brush, then rinse thoroughly.

If this doesn’t kill the growth, repeat the process but let the bleach mixture sit for several minutes. This allows the bleach to penetrate their roots and spores. Rinse thoroughly so you remove as much bleach smell as possible.

Color Enhancing Products

To restore paver vibrancy, use color-enhancing products designed specifically for pavers. These can help bring out the natural colors of the pavers and restore their original appearance. Be sure you choose a product meant for your paver material specifically.

Re-sanding the Joints

Over time, joint sand between pavers can get washed away, creating a dingy look. If this has happened on your property, consider reapplying the sand. Properly filled joints help maintain the pavers' stability and prevent weed growth. They also make the pavers look freshly installed!

Soft Wash Cleaning and Sealing the Pavers

Soft wash cleaning is excellent for pavers, removing thick dirt without dislodging the bricks or tiles. Additionally, soft wash systems can scrub away tough debris such as bird droppings or food stains. This helps restore the color and appearance of those pavers.

Once the pavers are clean and dry, consider a paver sealer. A sealer protects pavers from future staining and weathering while enhancing their color. There are different types of sealers available, including natural finish and enhancing sealers that can deepen color.

Why Do My Pavers Look Dull?

Pavers can start to look dull due to wear and exposure to the elements. Accumulated dirt and debris also create a dull, rundown look. Here are some common reasons why your pavers might appear dull:

• Over time, pavers are exposed to sunlight, rain, wind, and temperature changes. This exposure can lead to fading of the pavers' original color and a gradual loss of their natural shine.
• Dirt, dust, and other particulates can accumulate on the surface of pavers, creating a layer that diminishes their shine. Foot traffic and other activities can grind these particles into the paver's surface, further dulling their appearance.
• Pavers that haven't been sealed or haven't been resealed over time are more susceptible to dullness. Sealing creates a protective barrier that can enhance the color and sheen of the pavers, while also preventing dirt and stains from penetrating the surface.
• Even if your pavers were sealed initially, the sealant can wear away over time due to foot traffic, weather, and other factors. As the sealant breaks down, the pavers' protection diminishes, leading to a dull appearance.
• Pavers in shaded or damp areas can develop algae, moss, or mildew growth. These organic substances not only make the pavers look dull, but they can also contribute to a slippery surface.
• Foot traffic, vehicle tires, and other activities can cause abrasion on the paver's surface, wearing away the top layer and diminishing their shine.

To restore the shine and vibrancy of your pavers, consider expert cleaning and sealing. This process removes dirt and debris that fades paver colors. Also, sealing adds protection against dirt, foot traffic, and harsh sunlight. In turn, cleaning and sealing can make your pavers look their best and keep their color fresh and true for years!

A Word From Our Paver Cleaning Crew

Largo Pressure Washing Services is happy to answer the question, how do I get my pavers back to the original color? Hopefully we’ve offered some good advice to consider. Also, if you’re in the area, call our Largo pressure washing contractors for your FREE quote. We offer expert soft wash cleaning, paver cleaning and sealing, and other outstanding services. We look forward to hearing from you!