Patio pavers are a great way to enhance your outdoor space, but keeping them clean while maintaining the sand between them can be a challenge. Sand helps keep the pavers in place and prevents weeds from growing between the cracks, so it’s important to clean the pavers without washing away the sand. In this guide, we’ll explain how to clean patio pavers without removing sand and give you tips for keeping your pavers in top shape. We’ll also talk about how much polymeric sand do i need in case you need to refill the joints.

Why You Should Keep the Sand Between Pavers

The sand between your pavers isn’t just there for looks—it plays an important role in keeping your patio stable and neat. Here’s why the sand is so important:

  • Keeps pavers in place: Sand helps lock the pavers together so they don’t shift or become uneven over time.
  • Prevents weed growth: Filled joints stop weeds from growing between the pavers.
  • Allows proper drainage: Sand helps water drain through the gaps, preventing pooling and erosion.

Because of this, it’s important to clean your patio carefully so you don’t lose too much sand if you want to know how to clean patio pavers without removing sand.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Patio Pavers Without Removing Sand

Here are the steps to clean your patio pavers while keeping the sand intact.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

To get started in knowing how to clean patio pavers without removing sand, make sure you have these tools:

  • Broom
  • Low-pressure garden hose or pressure washer (with a low setting)
  • Mild dish soap or paver cleaning solution
  • Soft-bristle scrub brush
  • Leaf blower (optional)
  • Sealant (optional for protection after cleaning)

Having these tools will help you clean your patio efficiently without disturbing the sand.

Step 2: Sweep the Patio

Start by sweeping the patio with a broom to remove loose debris, dirt, and leaves. Sweep carefully so you don’t brush away the sand in the joints. Clearing the surface of your patio will make cleaning much easier.

Step 3: Pre-Wet the Area

Use a garden hose with a low-pressure setting to lightly wet the pavers. This will help loosen dirt and prepare the surface for cleaning. Avoid using a high-pressure spray, as it can push the sand out of the joints.

Step 4: Apply Cleaning Solution

Next, apply a paver cleaner or a mix of mild dish soap and water. Choose a cleaner that is safe for pavers and won’t damage the sand between them. Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes so it can loosen any stains or dirt.

Step 5: Scrub the Pavers

Using a soft-bristle brush, gently scrub the surface of the pavers. Focus on removing stains or dirt but don’t scrub too hard in the joints where the sand is. If you have stubborn stains, let the cleaner sit a bit longer before scrubbing again.

Step 6: Rinse the Pavers

Once you’ve scrubbed the pavers, rinse them off with your low-pressure hose. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as this can wash away the sand. A gentle rinse will remove dirt and soap without disturbing the sand in the joints.

Step 7: Dry the Area

Let the pavers air dry or use a leaf blower on a low setting to remove any leftover water. Again, be cautious not to blow the sand out of the joints. Drying the area will help you see if any sand has been lost during the cleaning process.

Step 8: Refill Sand (If Necessary)

If you notice that some sand has been washed away, you’ll need to refill the joints. This is where polymeric sand comes in handy. So, how much polymeric sand do I need?

How Much Polymeric Sand Do I Need?

To figure out how much polymeric sand you need, you’ll first need to measure your patio and the size of the joints. Here’s how you can calculate the amount:

  1. Measure the area: Multiply the length and width of your patio to get the square footage.
  2. Check the joint size: Measure the depth and width of the joints. The deeper and wider the joints, the more sand you’ll need.
  3. Use a polymeric sand calculator: Many manufacturers offer online calculators where you can input your patio’s measurements to find out how much sand you need.

Typically, a 50-pound bag of polymeric sand covers about 50 to 75 square feet, depending on the size of the joints. Always follow the guidelines on the product packaging.

Step 9: Seal the Pavers (Optional)

Once your patio is clean and dry, you may want to apply a paver sealant. This will protect the pavers from stains, UV damage, and wear while also locking in the joint sand. Sealing your pavers can make future maintenance easier and help them last longer.

Tips for Keeping Your Patio Clean Without Losing Sand

To keep your pavers in great shape, follow these tips:

  • Sweep regularly: This will prevent debris from building up and getting stuck in the joints.
  • Use low pressure: Always clean with a gentle spray to avoid dislodging sand.
  • Address stains quickly: Deal with stains as soon as they happen to avoid long-term damage.
  • Check the sand: Keep an eye on the joint sand and refill it if it starts to erode.

Maintain Your Patio Pavers the Right Way 

Cleaning your patio pavers without removing the sand is important to keep your outdoor space looking great and functioning well. By following these simple steps and using the right tools, you can easily clean your pavers without disrupting the sand between them. If you do need to refill the joints, knowing how much polymeric sand do I need and knowing how to clean patio pavers without removing sand will help you get the job done efficiently.

If you’re looking for expert help with patio paver cleaning or installation, contact Panda Pavers today for a quote. We’re here to help you keep your patio looking its best year-round!