Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Block Paving Looking New in Plymouth

Sweep It, Don’t Forget It

Sounds obvious, but regular sweeping makes a massive difference. Leaves, dirt and moss love to sneak into the gaps between blocks. Leave them long enough and you’ll end up with weeds setting up camp. A stiff broom once or twice a week stops all that build-up and keeps the surface clear. Think of it as giving your driveway a quick haircut before it gets wild.

Pressure Washing: The Glow-Up Trick

Every so often, your paving deserves a deeper clean. Pressure washing blasts away grime, algae and stubborn stains in no time. Just don’t go overboard. Too much pressure can shift the jointing sand between the blocks, leaving gaps that weeds will thank you for. Keep the nozzle moving, avoid standing too close, and you’ll bring the colour of your paving back like magic.

Re-Sand the Joints

Here’s the bit a lot of people forget. After a few years, or after a heavy power wash, the sand between the blocks can wash away. That sand isn’t just there for looks, it locks the blocks in place. Without it, they start wobbling and weeds move in. Simply brush kiln-dried sand back into the joints every now and then and your paving will stay solid and weed-resistant.

Seal the Deal

If you want to go the extra mile, think about sealing your paving. A good sealant protects the surface from stains, keeps colours brighter and makes cleaning easier. It’s especially handy in high-traffic areas or if your driveway doubles as a parking spot for your pride and joy. Sealants also make it harder for weeds and moss to get comfy. It’s not essential, but it does keep things looking newer for longer.

Tackle Stains Quickly

Oil from cars, muddy boots, spilled drinks from last summer’s barbecue… life happens. The trick is to deal with stains fast. Dab up what you can, then clean the spot with warm water and mild detergent. The sooner you act, the less chance it has to soak in. Leave it too long and you’ll be forever pointing at that patch saying, “don’t look there.”

Weed Patrol

Even with the best care, the odd weed might still sneak through. Don’t ignore it. Pull it out early or use an appropriate weed killer before it spreads. A driveway full of dandelions is not the look you’re going for.

Watch the Edges

Block paving looks neat because everything’s tightly locked in. Over time, the edges can loosen, especially if vehicles are driving over them regularly. Keep an eye out for shifting or lifting blocks around the sides. Catch it early and it’s a quick fix. Leave it too long and it becomes a bigger job.

Why Bother with Maintenance?

You might think, “It’s paving, surely it just looks after itself?” Not quite. A bit of routine care keeps it looking sharp, extends its lifespan and saves you money on major repairs. Plus, well-kept paving boosts kerb appeal, which is handy if you’re thinking of selling. First impressions count, and a driveway covered in weeds or stains is never a good look.