How to Keep Your Pavers Looking New: Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Phoenix Homes

In Phoenix, outdoor living is a way of life. From backyard patios and walkways to pool decks and driveways, pavers add beauty, texture, and a touch of desert charm to your home. But with Arizona’s intense sun, dust storms, and monsoon rains, even the most durable pavers can lose their luster without regular care.

At Unwind Landscapes, a well-maintained hardscape should look as good as the day it was installed. Here’s how to keep your pavers clean, vibrant, and built to last in the desert heat.

1. Start with Regular Sweeping

Dust and sand are constant companions in Phoenix. Over time, they can scratch the surface of your pavers, making them appear dull.
Use a stiff broom or leaf blower to clear debris weekly, especially after windy days. Keeping the surface clean helps preserve the color and prevents grit from grinding into the finish.

2. Rinse Away the Desert Dust

A quick rinse with a garden hose every few weeks goes a long way. For more stubborn buildup, use a gentle pressure washer on a low setting. Avoid using high pressure directly on the joints — it can wash out the sand between pavers, weakening the structure over time.

3. Use the Right Cleaning Solution

For stains from oil, grease, or food spills, use a mild detergent mixed with warm water. Scrub the area with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly.
Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners—they can strip away sealant and cause discoloration. For tougher spots, Unwind Landscapes recommends eco-friendly paver-safe cleaners designed for Arizona’s climate.

4. Re-Sand the Joints

The sand between your pavers plays an important role—it locks everything in place and prevents weeds from growing. After heavy monsoon rains or deep cleaning, reapply polymeric sand to fill the joints. Sweep it in evenly, mist with water, and let it cure. This helps stabilize the surface and prevent shifting or erosion.

5. Apply a Quality Sealer

A good sealant protects against fading, staining, and water damage — and enhances your pavers’ natural color. In Phoenix’s intense UV conditions, sealing should be done every 2–3 years. Choose a UV-resistant, breathable sealer to help your pavers withstand the summer sun and sudden downpours.

6. Watch for Weeds and Ants

Even in the desert, weeds can sneak into the joints, especially near irrigation lines or shaded areas. Pull them early, and use a natural, non-toxic weed control spray if needed.
If you notice ant hills forming around your pavers, address them promptly—ants can tunnel beneath, causing uneven surfaces.

7. Plan for Seasonal Care

Phoenix’s weather extremes call for seasonal attention:

• Spring: Inspect for cracks or settling before summer heat sets in.

• Summer: Rinse dust often and avoid cleaning during peak sunlight hours.

• Monsoon season: Re-sand joints if heavy rains wash them out.

• Fall/Winter: Reseal if needed and remove any leaf debris before it stains.

8. Partner with the Professionals

Routine homeowner care goes a long way, but nothing replaces a professional touch. Unwind Landscapes offers expert cleaning, sealing, and repair services tailored to desert conditions. We use top-grade materials and techniques to help Phoenix homeowners keep their pavers looking fresh and beautiful year after year.

Keep Your Outdoor Spaces Picture-Perfect

Your pavers are an investment in your home’s beauty and value. With a little attention and seasonal maintenance, they’ll stay stunning — even under the Arizona sun.

🌵 Unwind Landscapes — Design. Build. Maintain. Your Phoenix outdoor oasis starts here.

At Unwind Landscapes, we're here to help every step of the way. As your professional Phoenix Landscapers, we take your vision from an initial Tree Trimming Phoenix to a completed project. Let's make your outdoor space amazing together with a Free Landscaping Design Estimate.

This content is for general reading purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or content.