What's the best way to clean interlock pavers around a barbecue area with grease stains?

Grease stains on interlock pavers require immediate attention and specific cleaning products — dish soap and hot water work for fresh stains, while set-in grease needs degreasing agents or commercial paver cleaners designed for oil-based stains.

The key to successful grease removal is acting quickly and using the right approach for your paver type. Fresh grease stains are much easier to remove than ones that have penetrated into the paver surface and cured over weeks or months.

For Fresh Grease Stains (within 24-48 hours):
Start by absorbing as much grease as possible with paper towels or clean rags — don't spread it around by wiping. Sprinkle kitty litter, baking soda, or cornstarch over the remaining grease and let it sit for 15-30 minutes to absorb the oil. Sweep up the absorbent material, then scrub the area with hot water and concentrated dish soap (Dawn or similar degreasing dish soap works well). Use a stiff brush — not wire, which can scratch pavers — and work in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

For Set-In Grease Stains:
You'll need a commercial degreaser or paver cleaner specifically designed for oil stains. Products like Simple Green Pro HD, Krud Kutter, or specialized paver cleaners from Techniseal or SealGreen work well on concrete pavers. Apply the degreaser according to manufacturer instructions, typically letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing with a stiff brush. For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process 2-3 times. Always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won't discolor your pavers.

Metro Vancouver Climate Considerations:
Our persistent humidity and frequent rainfall actually help with grease cleaning — the moisture prevents stains from setting as quickly as they would in drier climates. However, the same moisture that helps with cleaning also means grease stains can spread and penetrate deeper if not addressed promptly. During the rainy season (October through March), plan your cleaning for a dry window and allow adequate drying time before any rain hits the treated area.

Pressure Washing Approach:
A pressure washer can be effective for grease removal, but use caution. Keep pressure under 2,500 PSI and use a 25-degree or wider spray tip to avoid damaging the paver surface or blasting sand out of the joints. Apply degreaser first, let it work, then pressure wash. A rotating surface cleaner attachment provides more even cleaning than a wand and reduces the risk of striping or surface damage.

Special Considerations for Sealed Pavers:
If your barbecue area pavers have been sealed, grease stains may sit on the surface longer, making them easier to clean initially but potentially more visible. Most paver sealers are not grease-proof, so the stain may eventually penetrate through the sealer. Clean sealed pavers gently to avoid damaging the sealer coating — harsh scrubbing or strong degreasers can strip the sealer, requiring reapplication.

Preventing Future Stains:
Consider placing a large outdoor rug or mat under your barbecue area during cooking. Grease-resistant outdoor mats designed for barbecue areas can be easily cleaned or replaced and protect your pavers from spills. Regular cleaning of your barbecue's grease tray and drip pan also reduces the likelihood of overflow onto your pavers.

When to Call a Professional:
For extensive grease staining, very old set-in stains, or if you're concerned about damaging expensive natural stone pavers, professional cleaning may be worth the investment. Professional paver cleaning services have commercial-grade degreasers, hot water extraction equipment, and experience with different paver materials. They can also assess whether your pavers need resealing after intensive cleaning.

After successful grease removal, allow the pavers to dry completely before applying any sealer or returning furniture to the area. In Metro Vancouver's climate, this typically means 24-48 hours of dry weather.

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Looking for experienced contractors? The Vancouver Construction Network connects homeowners with qualified professionals:

• Vancouver Safety Surfacing Ltd
• I love kitchens LTD
• Heilman Renovations