Your paver driveway is more than just a functional space; it’s a design statement that boosts your home’s curb appeal. Whether you’ve chosen classic brick pavers, sleek concrete options, or natural stone, proper maintenance is key to preserving their appearance and longevity. Unfortunately, some commonly used products can actually harm your pavers, causing fading, cracking, or even structural damage.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top six products you should avoid using on your paver driveway—and what you can use instead to keep it looking its best for years to come.

It can be tempting to grab strong chemical cleaners when faced with oil stains, moss, or dirt buildup. However, many of these products—especially those containing bleach, ammonia, or hydrochloric acid—can strip away the protective sealant on your pavers. Over time, this leaves the surface exposed to moisture, UV damage, and discoloration.

Additionally, these chemicals can alter the pavers’ color, leaving behind unsightly patches or streaks. The long-term impact can include weakened paver surfaces and increased susceptibility to cracking or chipping.

Look for paver-safe cleaning products designed to tackle specific issues like oil stains or algae. For routine cleaning, a gentle mixture of mild dish soap and water applied with a soft-bristle brush can work wonders. This method is effective, affordable, and won’t harm the integrity of your driveway.

Pressure washing is often marketed as a quick and easy way to clean outdoor surfaces, but when it comes to pavers, caution is necessary. Using a pressure washer on a high setting can erode the paver’s surface layer, which is often treated to resist wear and tear. It can also dislodge the sand between the pavers, which is crucial for maintaining their stability and preventing weed growth.

High-pressure settings can even cause micro-cracks that worsen over time, leading to uneven surfaces or loose pavers.

If you decide to pressure wash, set the machine to a low-pressure setting and use a fan tip nozzle. Alternatively, a garden hose with a spray attachment and some elbow grease can often get the job done just as effectively.

Winter weather can be tough on outdoor spaces, and de-icing salts might seem like the perfect solution for icy driveways. However, traditional rock salts (sodium chloride) and other chemical ice melters can damage your pavers in several ways. These salts absorb moisture and can cause surface flaking (spalling) as temperatures fluctuate. Over time, this leads to cracking and even structural deterioration.

Additionally, runoff from these salts can harm nearby vegetation and corrode metal surfaces.

Choose eco-friendly alternatives like calcium magnesium acetate, which is less corrosive and safer for your pavers. Sand can also be spread over icy surfaces to provide traction without risking damage to the driveway.

While sealing your paver driveway is essential for protecting it from the elements, using the wrong type of sealant can cause more harm than good. Sealants or paints not formulated specifically for pavers may trap moisture, resulting in discoloration or mold growth beneath the surface. Some products may also peel or flake over time, leaving your driveway looking worse than before.

Always select a sealant designed for the type of pavers you have. Whether you’re looking for a natural matte finish or a glossy wet-look effect, there are products tailored to meet your needs. If you’re uncertain about the best option, consulting a professional can save you both time and money in the long run.

It might seem logical to use abrasive tools like steel brushes to scrub away tough stains or dirt. However, these tools can scratch and damage the surface of your pavers. This not only makes your driveway look worn but can also expose the pavers to further staining and degradation.

Use a soft-bristle brush or a microfiber mop for cleaning. If you encounter stubborn stains, combine gentle scrubbing with a paver-safe cleaner to protect the surface.

Weeds sprouting between your pavers can be a nuisance, but resorting to homemade remedies like vinegar or salt solutions can backfire. While these may temporarily kill weeds, they can also degrade the paver material and wash into nearby soil, potentially affecting surrounding plants or grass.

Apply polymeric sand between your pavers after cleaning. This specialized sand hardens when activated with water, preventing weed growth and stabilizing your pavers. For existing weeds, opt for a commercially available weed killer labeled safe for hardscapes.

Caring for your paver driveway doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require using the right products and techniques. By avoiding harsh chemicals, high-pressure water, and unsuitable sealants, you can ensure your driveway remains strong and visually appealing for years.

At SunSouth Carolinas, we’re here to help you maintain and enhance your outdoor spaces. Whether you need advice, professional cleaning, or a full driveway renovation, our team has the expertise to get the job done right.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you protect your investment while creating the outdoor living space of your dreams!

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