Pressure Washing Brick Paver Driveways Safely

A homeowner with a herringbone-pattern brick paver driveway on sand bedding asks if pressure washing will wash out joint sand and destabilize the pavers.

Risk Assessment

Yes—improper pressure washing can erode joint sand, especially if installation was substandard. Concentrated spray in one spot accelerates damage.

Safe Cleaning Protocol

1. Use wide fan tip, keep moving—never hold in one spot
2. Pre-treat stains with brush and mild detergent or paver cleaner
3. Rinse gently with pressure washer on lower setting

Essential Post-Wash Step

Re-sand joints with polymeric sand (joint sand with binding agent):

• Purchase from hardscape supplier
• Sweep into dry joints
• Follow bag instructions for activation (usually light misting)
• Polymeric sand hardens like flexible mortar, resisting erosion and weeds

Maintenance Benefit

Polymeric sand dramatically reduces future weed growth and sand loss compared to plain sand, extending the interval between major cleanings.