Your paver driveway is more than just a place to park—it’s the first impression your home makes. A well-designed paver driveway adds curb appeal, increases property value, and sets the tone for your home’s exterior. But like any investment, it requires proper care. At Southern Pavers, we’ve installed and restored countless driveways across Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Greer, Simpsonville, and the greater Upstate SC region. Over the years, we’ve learned what it takes to keep a paver driveway looking beautiful and performing well, year after year. Here’s your step-by-step guide to maintaining a paver driveway in Upstate South Carolina.
1. Regular Cleaning Keeps Pavers Fresh
Dirt, leaves, pollen, and debris can quickly build up on paver surfaces. In South Carolina’s warm, humid climate, this buildup can even lead to moss and mildew if left untreated.
- Weekly/Monthly Maintenance: Sweep your driveway with a stiff broom to remove debris.
- Quarterly Deep Clean: Use a pressure washer on a light setting to wash away grime and stains. Be careful not to blast out the joint sand between pavers.
- Spot Cleaning: For oil or grease stains, apply a degreaser or mild detergent with warm water and scrub with a brush.
👉 Tip: Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, which can discolor pavers. Stick to paver-safe cleaners.
2. Replenish Joint Sand
The sand between your pavers plays a crucial role—it locks pavers in place and prevents weeds from growing. Over time, rain and traffic can wash this sand away.
- Check Twice a Year: Inspect joints for gaps or looseness.
- Refill as Needed: Use polymeric sand, which hardens when wet, helping prevent weeds and ants from taking root.
- Apply Properly: After sweeping sand into the joints, mist lightly with water to activate the bonding process.
Maintaining joint sand is one of the easiest but most effective steps to keep your driveway strong and weed-free.
3. Seal Your Driveway for Long-Term Protection
Sealing is one of the best ways to extend the life of your paver driveway. A high-quality sealer protects against stains, enhances color, and shields against South Carolina’s changing weather—from summer heat to winter freezes.
- How Often to Seal: Every 3–5 years, depending on usage and exposure.
Benefits:
- Prevents oil and grease stains from penetrating.
- Reduces weed and moss growth.
- Enhances the natural color of your pavers.
- Protects against fading from UV rays.
Professional vs. DIY: While DIY sealing kits exist, professional application ensures even coverage and longer-lasting results. At Southern Pavers, we recommend sealing soon after installation and then scheduling routine resealing to keep your driveway looking its best.
4. Prevent Weeds, Moss, and Ants
In Upstate SC, warm summers and regular rainfall can make paver joints a perfect breeding ground for weeds, moss, and even ants.
- Weed Control: Apply polymeric sand after cleaning to block weed growth.
- Natural Prevention: Vinegar and boiling water can be used as eco-friendly weed killers.
- Pest Control: If ants are a problem, look for paver-safe ant treatments that don’t damage the surface.
Staying proactive means you won’t be fighting weeds every season.
5. Address Shifting and Settling Early
Over time, pavers may shift or sink due to traffic, erosion, or poor drainage. Left unchecked, this can create tripping hazards and uneven surfaces.
- Signs of Trouble: Noticeable dips, raised edges, or pooling water.
- DIY Fix: For small areas, lift the pavers, level the base, add sand, and reset them.
- Professional Repair: For large sections or repeated settling, call Southern Pavers to evaluate drainage and base issues.
The beauty of a paver driveway is that repairs are easier than with poured concrete or asphalt—individual pavers can be lifted and replaced without tearing up the whole surface.
6. Manage Drainage
Water is one of the biggest enemies of hardscapes. If your driveway has poor drainage, you may notice erosion, sinking, or puddling.
- Check After Rain: Look for standing water or erosion around edges.
- Install Drains: Channel drains or French drains can redirect water away from the surface.
- Choose Permeable Pavers: For new driveways, permeable systems can prevent future drainage issues altogether.
Proper drainage ensures your paver driveway stays strong for decades.
7. Seasonal Care for Upstate SC Homeowners
Different times of year call for specific care:
- Spring: Sweep away pollen, clean off mildew, and refresh joint sand.
- Summer: Watch for fading in high-sun areas—consider sealing if it’s been a few years.
- Fall: Remove leaves promptly to prevent stains and mold.
- Winter: Use sand or paver-safe ice melt instead of rock salt, which can damage pavers.
Staying on top of seasonal maintenance keeps your driveway protected year-round.
Why Paver Driveway Maintenance is Worth It
Regular maintenance does more than keep your driveway looking sharp—it:
- Extends the lifespan of your investment.
- Protects against costly repairs.
- Maintains your home’s curb appeal.
- Keeps surfaces safe for vehicles and foot traffic.
Unlike asphalt or poured concrete, paver driveways are designed for longevity, flexibility, and repairability. With proper care, your driveway can last 30 years or more.
Trust Southern Pavers for Driveway Maintenance in Upstate SC
From Greenville to Spartanburg, Anderson to Greer, Southern Pavers has installed and maintained countless driveways. We combine expert craftsmanship with a family-first approach, ensuring every project is completed with precision and care.