The way of cleaning and maintaining paving stone

　　For optimum performance paving generally requires regular maintenance, so to achieve the best results, Tobermore recommend that paving is cleaned two to three times 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 stone to remove any excess sand or 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 driveway. 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 sand which is removed must be replaced (jointing sand is available from Tobermore in 25kg bags). 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. Special cleaning agents are available from Tobermore and these should be used prior to washing to improve the cleaning process. The manufacturers instructions should always be followed when using these products.

　　Moss, Lichen and Algae

　　For general cleaning of dirt and algae, vigorous brushing with a stiff yard brush with plenty of hot detergent solution (washing up liquid or non-bio washing powder), thoroughly rinsed with clean water should suffice. Repeated treatment may be required for paved areas sited beneath trees or in permanent/near permanent shade.

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　　Thick growths of moss or lichen must be removed first by scraping out the joints and then treating the area with a moss killer such as Anti-moss Paving Cleaner (Available from Tobermore). Anti-moss is designed to remove moss, lichens and algae. It is best applied in dry weather. After being applied it will take a few days to be fully effective. Once the moss and lichens have been killed, they can easily be brushed off. Anti-moss also leaves a residue in the sand joint which will help reduce the likelihood of re-growth.

　　Weeds

　　Large weeds should be removed by hand and then the area treated with a weed killer e.g. Weedol or Pathclear (available from Garden Centres). Smaller weeds can then be treated directly with the weed killer and these weeds should start to die within days. Manufacturers instructions should always be followed.

　　Block Paving Sealer

　　It is also possible to seal your paving with a resin material which combats staining and weed growth, while also enhancing colour and appearance. The acrylic sealer is sprayed onto the block paving and forms a ‘skin’ on top of the paving and the jointing sand giving an easily maintained finish. It is ideal for courtyards and other paved areas.