Weeds are an unwelcome sight on any patio or paver surface, detracting from their appearance and potentially causing damage. Luckily, there are several ways to remove weeds from these surfaces; the methods range from manual to chemical to mechanical.

With the right approach, you can remove these unwanted plants from your patio or pavers and restore their appearance and function.

Manual

Manual methods are labor-intensive but the most eco-friendly ways of removing weeds.

Hand Picking 

pulling weeds

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Hand-picking is the most eco-friendly way of removing weeds from your patio or pavers. However, it is time-consuming and laborious, and it might be challenging to uproot tiny weeds by hand. If not uprooted, the weed may regrow, meaning this method is preferable only if your paving does not have many weeds. 

Scraping 

scraping moss between paver bricks

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Another manual method of weed removal from pavers or patios is through scraping. First, scrape the weed with a hand scraper or a putty knife. Remember to hold the scraper at a low angle to the surface of the pavers to avoid damaging them.

Once done, use a broom or brush to sweep away the dislodged weed and debris. Finally, use a small handheld tool, such as a weeder, to remove any remaining weed roots or debris from the pavers.

Scraping can be time-consuming, especially for larger areas or weeds with deep roots. However, it can be effective if you only have a few weeds or want to avoid using chemicals or machinery.

Chemical

Some chemical weed removers are harsher than others. Learn which are better for your garden.

Liquid Weed Killers 

worker spraying weed killer on a customer's patio

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Different liquid weed killers are available to effectively kill weeds in pavers or patios.

Contact herbicides, like Roundup Ready-to-Use Weed and Grass Killer, damage the stems and leaves of small weeds and kill them. Systemic herbicides, such as Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer, act on the weed from its roots and travel through the entire plant, eventually killing them. They are effective against small and large weeds.

You can also use organic weed killers. They are safe for pets and children, as they use organic ingredients to kill unwanted plants on the patio and pavers. Green Gobbler Vinegar Weed and Grass Killer are two organic weed killers available on the market. 

You can try pre-emergent herbicides, such as Preen Garden Weed Preventer, to kill weeds before they sprout up. They do not work on existing weeds but effectively prevent new weeds from emerging. Apply them to the soil around the pavers to prevent new weeds from growing.  

Hot Water 

Boiling water

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Boiling water can be poured on weeds growing on driveways and pavements to kill them. However, it will only affect the parts of the weed it comes in contact with, so it will readily work on newly emerged weeds with less extensive roots and might take more than one application for older weeds.

Give this method a few days to work effectively, then reapply after a week to kill the weeds completely. Nevertheless, it is an inexpensive, natural remedy to eliminate weed from your patio or pavers. 

Vinegar Solution 

Vinegar solution to kill weeds

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Vinegar is acidic (acetic acid), which can kill a plant. So, spray undiluted vinegar to kill weeds on your patio or pavement. But spray it only on the weeds, not the other plants, as vinegar is an indiscriminate killer and will affect any plant that comes in contact.

Use a vinegar concentration of between 5 and 20 percent (anything higher can harm the environment). Be mindful that vinegar above 11 percent concentration can burn skin and damage eyes if it comes in contact. 

Vinegar isn't always a surefire solution for weeds, as sometimes the acid might burn the leaves and not reach the roots. As a result, the weeds may regrow.

Salt Water 

Salt water

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Mix 1 cup of salt with 2 cups of boiling water and spray this solution on the weeds. Saltwater affects the leaves and the roots of weeds. As the roots absorb salt water, the salt collapses the plant cells, causing dehydration and destroying the weed.  

However, like vinegar, salt water does not discriminate and will affect any plant that comes in contact with it. So, make sure to spray isolated weeds only. Similarly, if this water flows down the pavement, it will affect the grass or the landscape by affecting its soil. 

Mechanical

Mechanical weed removal tends to be quick and efficient but can cost more money than other methods.

Electric Weeding Machine 

electric weeder

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An electric weeding machine is another option for removing these pesky plants from the paving or patio. This type of machine can remove weeds from their roots, making it a quick, efficient method for weed removal. However, it incurs the cost of buying the device. Additionally, you must read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before using an electric machine to remove weeds. 

Jet Spray 

jet washing a patio

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You can also use a jet spray or pressure washer to remove small weeds from pavings. However, a jet spray can erode the sand structure of the pavement and ultimately damage it. So, use it carefully and do not exert much pressure over one spot. Likewise, do not use a pressure washer to remove larger weeds with deep roots, as doing so can permanently damage the surface of your pavers. 

Alternatively, you can invest in a rotary head pressure washer with a rotary attachment specially made for cleaning paving surfaces. This machine can help you remove weeds effectively from your pavement. In addition, you can apply a joint paving sealer and fill in the gaps in the pavement after removing the weeds. It will prevent any damage caused by the jet spray and restrict weed growth on the pavement. 

Note: Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific pressure washer you are using.

Gas Wand 

gas wand to remove weeds from pavement

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Using a gas weed wand is another option for removing weeds from your patio or pavers. A gas weed wand works by directing a flame at the base of these plants, causing them to wither and die within one to two days. But this tool does not guarantee complete weed elimination as the flame might not get to the roots, and the weed might start regrowing after some time. 

This tool is specific to killing weeds in the joints of the paving blocks or garden borders. It generally has a long handle that allows you to use the burner from a distance while standing. However, you must still be cautious and aware of the risks of using an open flame near flammable materials. Additionally, this method may only be suitable for some surfaces. 

Banishing Weeds

Removing weeds from your patio or paver surface can be manageable and effective with the right approach. The best method for removing weeds from your patio or pavers will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. However, whichever approach you choose, by taking action to remove weeds, you can maintain a clean, healthy, and attractive outdoor space. 

Have you tried any remedies for removing weeds from your patio or walkways? Share your experience in the comments below!