If your patio, walkway, or driveway pavers are turning green, you’re not alone. The green tint is usually caused by algae, moss, or mildew — all of which thrive in damp, shaded, and poorly drained areas. Over time, this buildup can make your pavers slippery, discolored, and unsafe.
The good news? You can remove green algae and moss from pavers easily with the right cleaning techniques — and prevent them from coming back. Here’s how to restore your hardscape to its original beauty and keep it that way.
🌱 Why Pavers Turn Green
Moisture, shade, and organic debris create the perfect environment for growth. Here’s what might be happening on your pavers:
Algae: Thin, slick, green coating that makes the surface slippery.
Moss: Thick, fuzzy patches that grow between joints and on damp surfaces.
Mildew: Powdery residue caused by trapped moisture and poor airflow.
Understanding what’s growing helps you choose the best cleaning method for your situation.
💦 Step 1: Rinse and Remove Loose Debris
Start by sweeping away leaves, dirt, and twigs. Then rinse your pavers with a garden hose to wash off loose buildup. Avoid using full-pressure washing right away — it can damage the sand between your pavers or the sealant protecting the surface.
🧼 Step 2: Mix a Natural Cleaning Solution
To safely clean algae and mildew from pavers, mix a gentle cleaner using:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 1 cup of white vinegar (or a few drops of dish soap)
Pour the mixture over the green areas and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Then scrub with a stiff-bristle brush or broom. Vinegar naturally kills algae and mildew without harming your plants or paver finish. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
🧽 Step 3: Tackle Stubborn Moss or Deep Stains
If patches remain, apply a paver-safe algae and moss remover — available at most home improvement stores. Look for cleaners labeled as non-toxic and safe for concrete or stone. Follow the product directions carefully and rinse well after use.
Avoid chlorine bleach or harsh chemicals; they can weaken your pavers and damage nearby landscaping.
🪨 Step 4: Re-Sand and Seal Your Pavers
After cleaning, inspect the joints between your pavers. If the sand looks washed out, refill it with polymeric sand — this prevents weed and moss regrowth.
Once the surface is dry, apply a high-quality paver sealer. Sealing helps block out moisture, reduce future algae and mildew growth, and enhance your pavers’ color and finish.
For best results, reseal every 2–3 years.
🌤 Step 5: Prevent Green Growth from Coming Back
Keeping your pavers green-free is all about prevention:
- Sweep regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Trim overhanging trees and bushes to increase sunlight.
- Improve drainage to reduce standing water.
- Rinse with a hose after heavy rain.
- Schedule seasonal professional cleanings.
