What's the cheapest way to remove moss from my interlock in Vancouver?

The cheapest way to remove moss from interlock in Vancouver is using a homemade iron sulphate solution, which costs about $20-30 to treat 500 square feet and works exceptionally well in our marine climate.

Iron sulphate (ferrous sulphate) is the most cost-effective moss killer for Metro Vancouver's persistent moss problems. You can buy a 2kg bag at garden centers for $15-25, which makes enough solution to treat large areas. Mix 2-3 tablespoons per gallon of water and spray directly on moss-covered pavers. The iron sulphate turns moss black within 24-48 hours, and it naturally washes away with Vancouver's frequent rainfall. This method costs roughly $0.05-0.10 per square foot compared to $0.50-1.00 per square foot for commercial moss killers.

Why moss thrives on Vancouver interlock is directly related to our climate — over 1,200mm of annual rainfall, 60-80% humidity levels, and mild temperatures create ideal moss-growing conditions year-round. North-facing installations and areas shaded by trees or buildings are particularly problematic. The moss isn't just unsightly; it creates genuinely slippery surfaces that become safety hazards during our October-to-March rainy season.

Application timing matters significantly in Vancouver's climate. Apply iron sulphate during dry periods (ideally May through September) when you can get 24-48 hours without rain for the solution to work effectively. Avoid applying just before heavy rainfall, as it dilutes the solution before it can kill the moss. After the moss turns black and dies, use a stiff brush or pressure washer to remove the dead material before it decomposes and provides nutrients for new moss growth.

Prevention is more cost-effective than repeated treatment. Once you've killed existing moss, improve air circulation around your pavers by trimming overhanging branches and removing debris that holds moisture. Ensure your polymeric sand joints are full — empty joints collect organic matter and provide perfect moss-growing conditions. If your polymeric sand has washed out (common in Vancouver), replenishing it costs $1-2 per square foot but prevents moss from taking hold in the joints.

For severe moss infestations, you may need to combine iron sulphate treatment with pressure washing. Use a pressure washer at 1,500-2,000 PSI with a rotating surface cleaner attachment to avoid striping the pavers. This removes not just the moss but also the organic film that helps moss adhere to paver surfaces. The combination of iron sulphate treatment followed by pressure washing typically provides 6-12 months of moss-free surfaces.

When to hire a professional depends on the scope of your moss problem. If moss covers more than 200-300 square feet, or if you're dealing with moss in hard-to-reach areas like steep slopes or multi-level installations, professional cleaning services typically charge $0.75-1.50 per square foot and include pressure washing, moss treatment, and joint sand replenishment. For smaller areas under 100 square feet, the DIY iron sulphate approach is definitely the most economical option.

The key to long-term moss control in Vancouver is understanding that it's an ongoing maintenance issue, not a one-time fix. Budget for annual moss treatment as part of your interlock maintenance, just like you would for lawn fertilizing or gutter cleaning.

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