The Best Way to Remove Weeds and Moss Between Pavers

Weeds and moss creeping between pavers can turn a beautiful patio or walkway into an unsightly mess. Not only do they spoil the look of your outdoor space, but they also signal deeper issues like poor drainage or deteriorating joints. If you’re tired of pulling the same weeds repeatedly, it’s time to take a smarter approach.

This guide will walk you through the most effective methods, from natural remedies to professional paver cleaning services, so you can restore your pavers and keep them clean for the long haul.

What Causes Weeds and Moss to Grow Between Pavers

Weeds and moss thrive in specific conditions, and paver joints often provide the perfect micro-environment. All it takes is a bit of moisture, some dirt or organic debris, and a little sunlight for plant growth to begin. Wind and rain deposit soil into the cracks between your pavers, and over time, that turns into a fertile bed for seeds and spores.

Moss favors damp, shaded spots with poor air circulation. If your pavers are shaded by trees, buildings, or even large furniture, they’re more likely to stay wet, and moss loves that. Weeds are less picky but no less persistent. Their seeds can blow in from nearby lawns or flower beds and settle into any space that offers warmth and moisture.

Certain surfaces and climates are especially vulnerable. Porous pavers absorb more moisture, which supports moss growth. Areas with frequent rain or high humidity create the perfect environment for moss and weed growth. Similarly, older pavers or those with eroded joints are more susceptible due to the wider gaps and more abundant soil.

How to Evaluate the Severity of Weed and Moss Growth

Before you begin removal, take time to assess how serious the issue really is. Are you dealing with a minor surface nuisance, or is there a deeper problem, like poor drainage or a compromised foundation? Understanding the scope of the problem will help you choose the most effective solution and avoid wasted elbow grease.

Start with a close inspection. Get down at ground level and sift through your pavers. Are the weeds only embedded in the top layer of joint sand? If so, that’s a surface-level issue and usually easy to treat. But if you notice weeds with deep roots or plants emerging from beneath the pavers, it could indicate deeper penetration into the base layers.

Check for structural shifting. If your pavers appear uneven, are lifting, or wobble underfoot, that’s often a sign of foundation problems or erosion beneath the surface. Weed growth in these areas may just be a symptom of a larger issue requiring repair or reinstallation of the affected section.

Observe how water behaves after rain. Persistent puddles or damp spots that linger for hours or days can suggest drainage problems or poorly compacted base material. Tackling weed problems requires you to know that no matter how often you clean, these wet areas create ideal conditions for moss and weed regrowth.

Evaluate the extent and resilience of moss growth. Moss that’s easy to brush away is typically surface-level and can be controlled. But if it’s thick, clinging to the joints, or spreading rapidly, you’re likely dealing with a moisture-rich environment, possibly due to poor sunlight, airflow, or drainage.

These visual and physical cues help you decide whether you need a simple weed-pulling session or a more comprehensive fix. In the long run, spotting and addressing the root causes early will save you time, effort, and money.

Manual Weed and Moss Removal Methods That Work

If the growth is manageable, manual removal is a cost-effective and straightforward solution. Start with the right tools: a crack scraper, a flathead screwdriver, or a weeding knife works well for digging between pavers. Use a stiff-bristle broom, wire brush, or stiff brush to loosen moss and a bucket to collect debris.

Begin by carefully digging out weeds from the base, removing weeds with the roots. Leaving behind the root system will almost guarantee regrowth. For moss, scrub it off dry first, then rinse the area with a garden hose. After removing the growth, you can pour boiling water directly into the joints to kill lingering roots or spores.

Once the area is cleared, sweep thoroughly to remove all organic material. This reduces the chance of new pesky weeds taking root. If your joint sand was disturbed, this is the ideal time to reapply and tamp it down.

At Clean Image of Orlando, we take weed and moss removal seriously. We use professional tools and deep-cleaning techniques to eliminate growth at the root and restore your pavers to like-new condition.

Natural Ways to Kill Weeds and Moss Without Chemicals

If you’re trying to avoid chemical solutions, natural remedies can offer practical, eco-friendly alternatives, especially for light or early-stage infestations. They’re safe, simple, and often made from ingredients you already have at home.

Boiling water is one of the easiest natural options. After pulling weeds and moss manually, pour boiling water directly into the joints. The extreme heat kills remaining roots and spores almost instantly. It’s a great follow-up step that helps sterilize the cracks without leaving residue.

Vinegar is another powerful natural treatment. Use household white vinegar, ideally with a higher acetic acid concentration (10–20%), to burn weeds on contact. For best results, spray it directly into the joints using a spray bottle on a sunny, dry day. Be careful with overspray, as vinegar can damage surrounding grass or garden plants just as easily.

Baking soda is especially effective for moss. Sprinkle generously over moss-covered areas and let it sit for a few days. The baking soda dehydrates the moss, making it brittle and easy to scrub or sweep away. While it’s less effective on weeds, it’s a great option for shady spots prone to moss buildup.

A weed torch or corn gluten meal are other options to prevent germination. All these methods are generally short-term solutions and often require repeated applications. They may not reach deep-rooted weeds, but they’re safe and sustainable for maintenance or preventing weeds, especially for families with kids or pets.

Also, consider the benefits of sealing pavers, which include creating a waterproof barrier that helps discourage weed and moss growth.

Using a Pressure Washer to Clean Between Pavers

A pressure washer can quickly remove moss and weeds, but using it incorrectly can damage your pavers. Stick to a fan nozzle and use moderate pressure—between 1500 and 2000 PSI is typically safe for most paver types.

Keep the nozzle at a low setting and spray in a consistent direction to avoid dislodging too much joint sand. Focus on blasting out dirt and roots while preserving the joint’s structure.

After pressure washing, your paver joints will likely need refilling. Use polymeric sand, which hardens slightly when dampened and helps prevent weeds and moss growth. Sweep it into the joints, then lightly mist the area with water to activate the binding agents. Once it sets, it forms a strong yet flexible surface that resists erosion and infestation.

That’s why we at Clean Image of Orlando use professional-grade pressure washing equipment with just the right settings to safely clean between your pavers. We remove deep-rooted growth while preserving joint integrity and finish with high-performance polymeric sand for lasting protection.

Choosing the Right Commercial Weed and Moss Killers

For more persistent problems, commercial herbicides and moss killers offer stronger, longer-lasting results.

Non-selective herbicides are most common for paver joints since they kill all unwanted vegetation they touch. These are ideal when you want a complete reset.

Selective herbicides, which target only specific types of plants, are more useful in lawns and gardens but not as effective between pavers. Look for fast-acting formulas designed for hardscapes. Some are ready-to-use sprays, while others require mixing and careful application.

Eco-friendly or organic options that use natural oils, citric acid, or iron sulfate are ideal if you have pets or children. These are safer for people and wildlife, and many break down quickly in the environment.

Always read the label and follow safety instructions. Apply in calm weather to avoid drift, and ensure treated areas dry thoroughly before allowing foot traffic. Always wear protective gear when applying any product.

Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Moss and Weed Regrowth

Prevention is the most effective and sustainable approach to moss and weed control. Rather than repeatedly battling growth, you can take smart steps to block it before it begins.

Polymeric sand is one of the best tools for long-term prevention. Unlike regular jointing sand, it contains special polymers that activate when watered. As it dries, it forms a semi-rigid barrier that locks the joints in place. This prevents soil, seeds, and moisture from settling into the cracks, making it much harder for weeds and moss to take hold.

Applying a cleaning solution or joint sealant adds another layer of protection. A quality sealant repels water, discourages moss growth, and helps keep your pavers looking vibrant. It also protects against erosion and stains. Sealing is especially valuable in shady, damp areas, where moss thrives the most.

Improving drainage is critical to long-term success. Standing water and constantly damp soil invite moss and weeds. To prevent this, properly grade your patio or walkway to allow water to flow away. If pooling remains an issue, consider installing a French drain or enhancing your gutter system to divert runoff.

Routine maintenance ties everything together. Regular sweeping removes debris that can decay into the soil. Occasional rinsing or spot treatments with boiling water or vinegar help keep growth in check. Consistent upkeep extends the life of your pavers and keeps them weed-free with little effort.

When to Choose Professional Paver Cleaning Services

Sometimes, the job is too big or repetitive to tackle on your own. Professional paver cleaning services bring expertise, commercial-grade equipment, and stronger treatments that can provide longer-lasting results than most DIY efforts.

They’ll often start with a deep pressure cleaning, apply eco-friendly herbicides or moss treatments, and finish with polymeric sand installation and sealing. They can also identify drainage or structural issues that need repair.

While the upfront cost can be higher than doing it yourself, the results typically last longer and require less maintenance. For large patios, driveways, or heavily infested areas, hiring professionals can be the most effective and efficient choice to rid your outdoor oasis of pesky invaders.

Restore Your Pavers with Clean Image of Orlando

Say goodbye to stubborn weeds and moss with expert help from Clean Image of Orlando. Our professional paver cleaning and sealing services leave your outdoor surfaces spotless, protected, and built to last. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate and enjoy beautifully clean pavers year-round.