A professionally installed paver patio, driveway, or walkway can last for decades, but even the best hardscapes need occasional maintenance. Here in Chilliwack and throughout the Fraser Valley, our damp climate creates the perfect conditions for moss, weeds, algae, and lichen to grow between pavers. Left untreated, these issues don’t just affect curb appeal—they can create slippery surfaces, cause pavers to shift, and shorten the lifespan of your investment.
Fortunately, regular cleaning and sealing can keep your pavers looking like new while protecting them from the elements.
Why Pavers Need Regular Maintenance
Unlike poured concrete, pavers contain joints filled with polymeric sand. Over time, rain, foot traffic, freeze-thaw cycles, and natural settling can wear this material away. Once gaps begin to appear, weeds and moss quickly move in, while algae thrives anywhere moisture lingers.
Many homeowners assume pressure washing alone solves the problem, but without replacing the joint sand and sealing the surface afterward, the same issues often return within months.
Cleaning Pavers the Right Way
The first step is removing loose debris, weeds, and moss before thoroughly pressure washing the surface. Pressure washing removes dirt, algae, mildew, and years of built-up grime, restoring the natural colour of the pavers. However, using excessive pressure can damage the pavers or wash away too much joint sand, which is why the correct equipment and technique matter.
Once the pavers are clean, they should be allowed to dry completely before any further work begins.
Why Replacing Joint Sand Is Essential
After pressure washing, many of the joints between the pavers will have lost some of their original sand. Refilling these joints with fresh polymeric sand helps lock the pavers together, discourages weed growth, reduces insect activity, and improves the overall stability of the surface.
Skipping this step is one of the main reasons weeds and moss return so quickly after cleaning.
The Benefits of Sealing Pavers
Applying a quality sealer is the final step in protecting your hardscape. Sealing helps repel water, reduces staining, slows the growth of moss and algae, and enhances the natural colour of the pavers. It also makes future cleaning much easier because dirt and organic material are less likely to penetrate the surface.
For most properties in the Fraser Valley, resealing every three to five years helps maintain both appearance and durability.
Preventing Moss, Weeds & Algae
The easiest way to keep pavers looking their best is with regular maintenance rather than waiting until problems become severe. Sweeping away leaves and debris, keeping nearby landscaping trimmed to improve sunlight, and washing the surface periodically all help reduce moisture buildup. Addressing small patches of moss or weeds early also prevents them from spreading throughout the entire patio or driveway.
Combined with professional cleaning and sealing every few years, these simple habits can significantly extend the life of your pavers.
Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
While smaller patios can often be cleaned by homeowners, larger driveways, commercial properties, and older pavers usually benefit from professional restoration. Proper maintenance involves much more than pressure washing. It requires selecting the correct cleaning methods, replacing joint sand, repairing minor movement where needed, and applying sealer under the right weather conditions to achieve long-lasting results.
At Fraser Valley Contracting, we build and maintain paver patios, walkways, driveways, retaining walls, and other hardscape features throughout Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley. Our team provides professional paver cleaning, restoration, and sealing services that help protect your investment and keep your outdoor spaces looking their best for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should pavers be cleaned?
Most pavers benefit from a thorough cleaning every one to two years, although shaded or heavily treed areas may require more frequent maintenance.
How long does paver sealer last?
A quality sealer typically lasts between three and five years, depending on weather exposure and traffic.
Will sealing stop weeds completely?
Sealing helps reduce weed growth, but the biggest defence is properly installed polymeric joint sand combined with routine maintenance.
Keep Your Pavers Looking Their Best
Pavers are a long-term investment that can add beauty, functionality, and value to your property. With regular cleaning, fresh joint sand, and professional sealing, you can prevent moss, weeds, and algae from taking over while extending the life of your hardscape.
Whether you need a complete paver restoration or ongoing maintenance, Fraser Valley Contracting has the experience and equipment to help homeowners and businesses throughout the Fraser Valley protect their outdoor spaces for years to come. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation.
