I’ve had a few calls to powerwash brick pavers to remove moss and algae. I have never been satisfied with the results even though, with the right disclaimers, I have managed to satisfy the customer.
I just got another call and after looking at the job, my gut reaction is that I could get better results with Round-Up (or maybe bleach) than a powerwasher. Of course, I can’t charge as much to just spray Round-Up, but that’s not really my goal anyway.
Further complicating this job is that the pavers aren’t butted tight together. With a 1/2″ grout line that is basically just dirt, I have visions of of making a muddy mess with a powerwasher and loosening the bricks to the point that they don’t sit right anymore.
So, here’s my question… has anyone found a good technique for removing moss from bricks?
Replies
use sand and a street broom .
Due to the amount of sand thrown out from the paver powerwashing process, alternatives are necessary. I have found that using a 16 to 18" spinner head attachment on the powerwasher is like a miracle. The bricks are spotless and the sand is never an issue. No zebra stripes either.
Like this:
http://sunbrite.stores.yahoo.net/surfacecleaner.html
Scroll down to the bottom part of the page.
Edited 5/9/2009 8:04 pm by peteshlagor
Round up.
Remodeling Contractor just on the other side of the Glass City
You might need to be licensed to apply herbicides in your area.
Bleach and water 50:50
Power broom.
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How now, Mighty Sauron, that thou art not brought
low by this? For thine evil pales before that which
foolish men call Justice....
dcd..........moss.........dry Tide laundry detergent spread by hand ....works great on shingles also.
....works great on shingles also.
Slightly off topic, but doesn't gravity get in the way of the dry powder staying on the shingles?~ Ted W ~
Cheap Tools! - MyToolbox.netSee my work at TedsCarpentry.com
I've heard the same thing done with Borax- I guess it might be the alkaline in it.Steve
Thanks for all of the feedback. I asked about products that will kill moss at the garden center yesterday. They had a product called Safer Brand Moss and Algae Killer, but in only came in a 32oz ready-to-use bottle and the also sold liquid lime. apparently, moss likes acidity and dislikes alkali.
I will probably decline this job. I'm going to call this customer and tell them to get their landscaper to spray the moss with the appropriate product and once it's dead, to call me back if it still needs power washing.
If they don't have a landscaper, I will consider spraying it myself, but I have very little confidence that I can provide a long-term solution.