Similar to cleaning pavers with muriatic acid, avoid an intense concentration of bleach, as it can damage the pavers. Always test a small area first to ensure that the bleach doesn't discolor or damage the surface. Some bleaches are also acidic and can etch the surface of the pavers leading to a cloudy appearance.
That's why you must take some preventive measures in order to save your patio from getting dull and damaged. Bleach has a negative effect on coloured artificial block pavings. It fades the colour of the tiles over time if used frequently.
Whether your patio is sealed concrete or cement, or even sealed concrete pavers, a bleach and water solution makes it easy to clean away built up soil, stains from leaves and pollen, mold, mildew and algae.
Mix a bucket of soapy water (a couple of tablespoons of washing-up liquid will do). Simply apply the solution to the surface using a watering can or a pump sprayer and use a stiff broom to scrub the blocks clean, until all the dirt is loose - avoid using wire brushes to prevent damage.
If vinegar does not work on your hardscape, you can use bleach. To create a powerful mold-killing mixture, you can add one cup of bleach to a gallon of water. However, you should exercise meticulous care and caution since bleach can discolor your brick pavers and thus ruin your precious hardscape.
You already know that bleach is a trusty household product for brightening up stains on garments. But that's not all; chlorine bleach can also be used for cleaning the concrete driveway. Of course, you should dilute it with equal parts of water or a 1:1 ratio.
Bleach: This alkaline solution may be effective for other household uses, but it can discolor concrete pavers that have been colored or stained.
Generally, to avoid damage to your paving slabs and limit the need for future re-sanding, we recommend pressure washing a block paved surface at a psi of 1500 – 2000. Here is a list of good pressure washers to use on a driveway.
To clean paver slabs, you can use a detergent, such as Dawn, or a vinegar-water solution that is gentle enough to effectively clean without causing damage to your concrete pavers.
Once again, acetic acid will wreak havoc with your block paving. Porous stones like limestone and sandstone are more susceptible to damage than most, as the vinegar can seep into the stones themselves, though even sealed and non-porous stones can discolour and bleach.
Apply the bleach and water to the wet paving slabs
Brush the solution to make sure you get an equal coverage of the cleaner. Make sure you brush the cleaner into all corners of the paving slabs. Once applied leave the cleaner on the surface for 10 -15 minutes.
As a gentler cleaner, bleach can't harm concrete's durable material. Aside from being an effective cleaner and stain remover, it also acts as a disinfectant to the concrete surface.
OxiClean is a powerful concrete cleaner that works well on various materials, including pavement and grout. This concentrated solution provides excellent cleaning without leaving residue.
Use soap and water, if the pavers are still dirty after sweeping and water hosing, make a solution of soap and water. You can use dish soap, laundry detergent, or any type of general-purpose cleaner. Never use bleach on your pavers, as it can damage the surface.
Using harsh chemicals on tarmac that are based on either caustic, bleach or acidic solutions should be completely avoided. Not only can this damage your tarmac, but it can also kill any nearby plants from the run off and harm pets if any residue is left.
Tire marks: The rubber from tires can leave marks on the surface of an asphalt driveway, especially if the tires are dirty or have excess tread. Chemical spills: Certain chemicals, such as bleach or paint, can permanently stain an asphalt driveway if not cleaned up immediately.
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.
Depending on the material of the paver (non-coloured concrete is safe), CLR may be suitable. Always spot test in an inconspicuous area first. Make sure the pavers are not coloured, stamped, sealed or coated.
The effects of sealing block paving are:
Enhances the colour of paving. The growth of weeds and moss is inhibited. Jointing sand is bonded and stabilised. Future cleaning becomes easier and less time-consuming.
And, while it may be tempting to use household bleach for a quick clean, Beril says that this can ruin the patio stones and leave them looking patchy. 'There are many specialist patio cleaning products on the market including brick acid,' she cautions.
Additionally, baking soda is absorbent, allowing it to absorb oils from the surface of the pavers, especially freshly oil spill on concrete pavers. Since it's a natural cleaning agent, baking soda is one of the safest materials you can use to remove oil stains.
Dry brushing with or without application of clean sharp sand. OR High pressure water jetting with or without detergent. OR Apply fungicides. Use ordinary bleach or calcium chloride followed by sodium hypochlorite dissolved in water (1kg in 5 litres) then scrub with stiff brush.