I’m a paving expert… there is a task you should do daily to prevent weeds and dirt on paving stones
A PAVING whizz has revealed which task to complete daily in order to prevent weeds and dirt on paving stones.
Adding paving to a garden has become extremely popular recently - not only does it make a garden more presentable but a stunning patio space can also be used for boozy summer barbecues in the warmer evenings.
But just like with virtually anything, natural paving stone also needs regular maintenance to keep the most pristine condition.
To make sure your garden looks its best, an expert from has shared three ways to make paving look brand new throughout the year, .
According to Nicole France, a spokesperson for the company, there is one task that should be done “daily” to prevent a build-up of dirt and debris.
Cleaning it
Making sure you regularly clean patios will ensure they look pristine for longer.
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Gardeners should invest in a high-quality broom which will easily remove any dirt and debris as soon as it appears.
In order to prevent the buildup of “dust, soil, leaves and other debris, and prevent seed germination”, Nicole suggested doing this daily.
“The growth of weeds can not only be ugly but plants can grow in any small cracks, therefore breaking up the stones further.
“Ensuring you regularly brush your stones means that even if small weeds have started to form, you can easily break them up with sweeping motions, ending further growth.
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“Strong rains on the forecast? We recommend sweeping your pavers prior to the rainfall, as this action will make cleaning up later much easier!”
DIY cleaning solution
Sharing her expertise, the whizz recommended using a “simple and safe” solution of soapy water made from washing up liquid or an acid-free soap-based floor cleaning product.
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She also claimed white vinegar is another great method of cleaning stones when mixed with water.
However, here it's worth pointing out that some products will react with limestone, marble and other natural stone paving.
Once the solution has been made, add cold or hot water.
With a vinegar solution, you should should let the mixture soak into the stones for approximately an hour.
Whichever solution you've decided to use, gently scrub the paving with a brush or broom.
Remove any soil or debris from crevices and other areas.
Frequent weeding
As much as some might hate it, weeding is essential and can make a real difference to a garden’s presentation.
Because using a broom or washing the paving stones will not remove weeds completely, it's important to have a regular weeding routine.
''Many weeds can be removed by hand or via the use of a weeding tool, such as a hoe, weed scraper or a weeding fork,'' Nicole said.
“These tools are readily available and inexpensive, helping users to get rid of perennial weeds, alongside any other annual or biennial species.
“In some cases wherein the roots of a weed have entered the joining, some Polymeric Sand will come away when a weed is pulled.
“This sand should be replaced ASAP once a surface as clean as the empty or partially-filled paver joints may not keep the stone in place.
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“If you are frequently removing weeds and this is failing to control the problem, you can consider introducing weedkillers to your pavers.
“Spraying the chemicals on plant leaves will often eradicate the problem but you should be careful to identify the species of weed and take care to be precise, as the weedkiller may damage your garden or surrounding plants.”
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