Unfortunately cleaning is not a one-size-fits-all process for pavers. For example, masons will use muriatic acid on clay brick to remove mortar. However, muriatic acid could do serious damage to a concrete paver.
Acids and acid-based cleaners can, and all-too-often do, cause devastating damage to the appearance of some types of paving. However, being wise after-the-fact is all too easy.
Muriatic Acid is a very harsh and corrosive chemical that can quickly and permanently damage your stone.
However, muriatic acid could do serious damage to a concrete paver. The take-away here: know what type of pavers you're working with, use a cleaning product that's safe for them, and carefully follow the instructions for said cleaning product.
Muriatic acid can work wonders on filthy concrete. However, it shouldn't be used on penetrating sealers since it can damage these finishes. It might also damage some acrylic sealers, so test a small area if you're not sure.
Don't pour muriatic acid down drains without neutralizing it, as this can cause corrosion and environmental damage.
Over time, it can destroy concrete as the acid weakens its structure. This will cause scaling, pitting, peeling, and cracking. If the acid wash gets into the soil, it will evaporate on the surface but remain beneath the surface (just like it does with concrete).
Bondall Hydrochloric Acid is the solution for acid etching concrete, brick and pavers to adequately prepare the surface prior to sealing or painting.
Acidic cleaners: Harsh, acid-based cleaning products and stain removers can damage the seal and finish of your concrete pavers. Bleach: This alkaline solution may be effective for other household uses, but it can discolor concrete pavers that have been colored or stained.
There are useful tools for cleaning paving stones, such as joint scrapers, sweepers, and pressure washers. In addition, pavers can be cleaned with a small pickaxe, broom, and garden hose.
Use a specialist cleaner
Try a specialist cleaner like Wet & Forget, at Walmart, which you spray onto the surface of the paving and leave. It can also be used on steps, fountains, patio umbrellas and other smaller outdoor areas. It's bleach-free and non-acidic but will remove mold, moss and grime without any scrubbing.
USE WHITE VINEGAR
Cleaning pavers with vinegar is one of the simplest ways to eliminate stubborn oil stains, or moss, and algae on pavers, particularly brick ones. Vinegar is 5% acetic acid, making it a fairly powerful cleaning agent for breaking down oil, dirt, bacteria, and other kinds of stains.
And never ever mix muriatic acid with other cleaning products. Carefully apply that solution to any mold or hard surface and let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with water.
Like any strong acid, muriatic acid can irritate your skin (prolonged exposure can even cause burns). Gloves will help you avoid direct contact. If you do get muriatic acid on your skin, wash the area with clean water right away (it's a good idea to keep a garden hose or a bucket of clean water nearby).
Muriatic acid must be diluted in water. Though degree of dilution will vary depending on the job, the general formula is one-part muriatic acid to 10 parts water. When making a dilution, slowly and carefully pour the acid into the water.
Muriatic acid may damage concrete surfaces, so be careful when pouring it on sidewalks or driveways; new concrete typically does not need to be cleaned at all before applying staining agents. If you do pour some on these surfaces, rinse off with lots of water as soon as possible.
To clean and etch concrete, mix one part muriatic acid to 10 parts water. Brush or spray the acid solution on the concrete, wait eight to 10 minutes, then neutralize the acid by spraying the surface with a mixture of one cup of ammonia in one gallon of water.
Dish soap and water: Dish soap is a degreaser, and it works well to clean oily and grimy concrete. Create a cleaning solution of warm water and few drops of dish soap and apply it to the surface. Let it sit for a while, then mop the patio and rinse it with fresh water. Repeat the process as many times as needed.
Add 1 part of 33% hydrochloric acid to 2 parts water to make a 10% solution. Always add acid to water and wear eye protection, acid proof gloves and all other appropriate protective equipment. 4. Apply liberally to cover the floor using a large watering can.
No, you can't pour muriatic acid outside.
Doing so would kill plants and harm the soil, and the acid could leach into groundwater.