How to Restore Faded Pavers: 4 DIY Methods
Restore your faded pavers using these methods
Pavers are a dynamic option for walkways, patios, and decks thanks to the wide range of materials and designs available. But they do fade as time goes by, and the beautiful color becomes dull and pale. Even new pavers can fade due to efflorescent deposits. To restore faded pavers yourself at home, try pressure washing the pavers, staining concrete pavers, or using paver sealers.
Why Do Pavers Fade?
There are many reasons pavers may fade. Below are the most common ones:
Weather impact: Rain and snow can wash away surface components, causing pavers to fade over time.
High heat: High temperature can also cause certain pavers to fade as time goes by.
Chemical products: The chemical herbicide you use to get rid of moss on pavers may react with the paver material, and it can react with certain pavers and cause the colors to fade.
Efflorescence: Efflorescence is a lime-salt buildup that appears as thin white dust during the first year after laying new pavers.
How Much Does It Cost to Restore Faded Pavers
Restoring pavers costs $2 to $4 per square foot, or $500 to $2,000 per project, depending on the size, material, and the required level of cleaning and restoration. The cost is much higher than handling restoration yourself because professional contractors use an advanced system to color-match your pavers to ensure they’re restored to the best possible condition.
Prep for Paver Restoration
Start by evaluating the situation and checking for other paver problems, such as broken or missing pavers. Pay attention to the level of fading and the size of the fading areas. This can help you determine if DIY restoration is worth your time and energy. Then, proceed to sweep and rinse-wash the pavers clean.
How to Restore Faded Pavers
Now, you’re ready to restore your faded pavers. Depending on the type of pavers, one or more of the following methods may apply.
1. Pressure Wash the Pavers
Pressure washing works with most paver materials and is one of the most effective ways to clean pavers. Pressure washing can restore faded pavers if the fading is caused by efflorescence buildup. Use a low-pressure nozzle to wash the pavers gently with water or a paver-specific cleaner. Use a hard-bristle brush to clean the surface, then rinse again with water. Finally, push the sand back into the joints, or apply new paver-binder sand or polymer sand to prevent moss and weed growth.
2. Stain Concrete Pavers
If your concrete pavers have faded colors, consider staining them to restore their original colors. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions and evenly apply the stain to your paver. For the best results, you may apply multiple coats, but be sure to allow each coat to dry before the next one.
3. Use Paver Sealers
After cleaning your paver, using an appropriate paver sealer can brighten the color and offer lasting protection against weather conditions. Pavers come in solvent-based and water-based. Using a roller, evenly apply a sufficient amount of sealant throughout your paver. Wait for each layer to dry, and avoid foot traffic for at least 24 hours after sealing your pavers.
Note that pavers will need to be resealed every 2 to 3 years. Before taking action, consider the pros and cons of sealing pavers.
How to Prevent Pavers From Fading
An effective paver maintenance routine is the best way to prevent pavers from fading. You should thoroughly clean your pavers at least once a year and reseal your pavers every 2 to 3 years. Building an overhead structure above your paver patio to block sun and rain can also help prevent fading. Don’t forget to choose cleaners and sealants that are most compatible with your paver to avoid chemical discoloration.
It’s also important to check and refill the sand between paver joints since they may come loose due to weather and traffic. You also need to refill the sand after cleaning your pavers. This prevents moss and weeds from growing in the gaps and keeps your pavers in place.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Restoring small patches of faded pavers can be easily done by yourself. However, if the restoration area is large with other damages present, or if you plan to clean, restore, and seal an entire paved area, it’s best to hire a paver contractor. Most paver companies charge $500 to $2,000 for a paver restoration project, with pressure washing on the lower end and full restoration and sealing on the higher end.
Here are some things you can do to ensure you hire the appropriate paver contractor:
Get multiple quotes from different companies for the best deal
Look up the contractor’s online reviews and past client testimonials
Find someone nearby to avoid the traveling fee
Find someone who can work with your schedule
Ask about seasonal maintenance services for better pricing
While you can paint brick or concrete pavers, you shouldn’t. Even with a matte finishing paint, it still creates a reflective surface where sunlight bounces off. This increases heat during summer months, making the pavers hard to walk on. The reflection can also damage your eyes. Finally, paint seals the pavers in the least desirable way and makes them impermeable, trapping water and moisture inside, which can cause other problems. Paint layers also chip easily.
If your new pavers look dull, it’s usually because of efflorescence. It is a chalky, white powder that is released when lime gets wet. If you have the patience, simply wait a year or so out. Efflorescence will be washed away naturally by rain. You can also use a pressure washer to restore faded pavers covered by efflorescence.
