Tips&TricksRevive Your Driveway. The simple trick to erase green stains

Revive Your Driveway. The simple trick to erase green stains

Yes, I clean the green paving stones.
Yes, I clean the green paving stones.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Achondryt

2:48 PM EDT, April 13, 2024

Paving stones on your driveway should always look impeccable, and regularly cleaning them each season ensures they maintain their spectacular appearance. However, a common issue arises when green deposits on the stones become noticeable, leaving many without effective removal methods. The solution? You likely have the necessary ingredients at home!

The presence of green deposits on the intricately laid and vibrant paving stones is unappealing and prompts the question of how to effectively and safely clean and refresh these surfaces. Before you reach for a pressure washer or other cleaning agents, consider their impact. While they might offer a temporary fix, these methods can significantly damage the structure of your driveway. So, what is the best approach to clean green paving stones?

Why do paving stones turn green?

If you're inspecting your sidewalk for the reason behind the green deposits, algae are often the culprits. They thrive on the structure of paving stones, especially in areas around garages and on the north side of properties where lighting is minimal. Many believe battling these green deposits is a losing game, expecting them to reappear over time. However, this isn't necessarily true. Shade and moisture are algae's greatest allies, allowing them to cover surfaces quickly. In extreme cases, they can be incredibly challenging to remove, but not impossible.

Weeds also contribute to the formation of green deposits, sprouting from cracks despite efforts to eradicate them. Regular driveway use contributes to this issue as the sand beneath the stones mixes with the soil, facilitating weed growth. The presence of weeds increases the likelihood of green deposits forming.

To address this, removing weeds manually or with home remedies is vital. Moss, sharing preferences with algae for shade and moisture, can spread from the joints onto the surface of the paving stones. Standing water in driveway cracks further invites green deposits to form.

How to remove the green deposit on paving stones?

A simple, home-based, and safe method exists for those pondering how to cleanse green paving stones. It requires minimal effort and will rejuvenate the appearance of your sidewalk. Treating the green deposit with lukewarm water and baking soda is an excellent remedy. Baking soda not only removes mould spores but also cleans effectively. Dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in about 1 quart of water and apply it to the stones. After waiting around 4 hours, brush or a broom to scrub the driveway, and watch as the green deposit vanishes.

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