To clean pavers in Florida: sweep, then wash with water and a mild paver-safe cleaner (or diluted simple green) using a pressure washer on a wide, low-pressure tip. Treat mold/mildew with a paver-safe algae cleaner, pull or spot-treat weeds in the joints, then re-sand and reseal to keep them from coming back.
Step by step
- Sweep and clear debris and furniture.
- Pre-treat mold/mildew (common in humid SWFL) with a paver-safe algae/mildew cleaner; let it dwell.
- Wash with a pressure washer using a wide 25°–40° tip held back from the surface — too close or too narrow blasts out the joint sand.
- Handle weeds in the joints — pull them or spot-treat, then plan to re-sand.
- Re-sand the joints with polymeric sand once dry.
- Reseal to lock everything in and slow future mold, stains and fading.
Removing common Florida stains
| Stain | Approach |
|---|---|
| Mold / mildew / algae | Paver-safe algae cleaner, then wash |
| Oil / grease (driveway) | Degreaser or poultice, blot — don't spread |
| Rust (sprinklers/fertilizer) | Paver-safe rust remover (avoid harsh acids) |
| Efflorescence (white haze) | Efflorescence cleaner made for pavers |
What to avoid
- High-pressure, narrow tips — they strip joint sand and etch the surface.
- Harsh acids or bleach — can discolor pavers; use paver-safe products.
- Sealing over dirt — traps grime; always clean first.
The real fix for weeds and mold: seal it
Weeds and mold in Florida keep coming back when the joints are open. Re-sanding with polymeric sand and sealing is what actually keeps them out long-term — see how often to seal pavers in Florida and our sealing cost guide.
Prefer to have it done right?
MJC Pavers offers professional cleaning, re-sanding and sealing across Southwest Florida — pavers come out looking nearly new. Request a free assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get mold off my pavers in Florida?
Use a paver-safe algae/mildew cleaner, let it dwell, then rinse or pressure wash with a wide low-pressure tip. Re-sanding and sealing afterward keeps mold from returning quickly.
Can I pressure wash pavers?
Yes, carefully — use a wide 25°–40° tip held back from the surface. Narrow, high-pressure tips blast out the joint sand and can damage the pavers.
How do I stop weeds growing between pavers?
Pull or spot-treat them, then re-sand the joints with polymeric sand and seal. Open joints are what let weeds and ants back in.
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