For optimum performance we recommend that paving is cleaned twice a year.
Initial Cleaning
When an area has just been paved, allow it to settle for a few weeks. After this, you may wish to lightly hose down the paving to remove any excess dirt. The area should then be treated with a weed killer suppressant, two or three times a year as required.
General Dirt
Regular sweeping to prevent the build up of detritus is recommended. Light coloured blocks, emphasise tyre marks and oil spills on the pavement. It must be accepted that these products will need more maintenance if the overall appearance is to be maintained.
A light power hose at medium pressure is generally all that is required to clean general dirt and grime. Any jointing grit which is removed must be replaced. Do not use high pressure powerwashers as aggressive power-washing can damage the product surface. A trial area should be tested before large scale powerwashing takes place.
Please do not use vacuum sweepers as jointing grit may be removed.
Please refer to the following sources of information – Guide to the design, construction and maintenance of concrete block permeable pavements Edition 5 produced by Interpave available for download on www.paving.org.uk.
How to clean clogged joints
After several years use, joints may become clogged with detritus and it may be necessary to clean them. This can be done as follows:
- Remove existing jointing grit and detritus by high pressure water jet.
- Reset the pavers which will have become displaced. Replace any damaged pavers at this time since they will have been loosened.
- Apply 6.3-2mm single size grit to the joints, using a stiff brush to sweep the material in ensuring joints are filled.
- Finish off as above.