Unsealed interlocking pavers are susceptible to staining, chipping, and growth of creepers through the cracks and edges. Although pavers require minimum maintenance, regular cleaning of the pavers and occasionally sealing them are necessary to preserve the well-tended look of your pristine patio or driveway. Sealing pavers is quite easy, considering that a lot of good quality acrylic-based sealants are available in the market.
It is important to identify the material of the Large format pavers, whether it is clay, concrete, or stone because scrubbing material depends on it. To clean pavers, you can use a scrubbing brush and water with a little amount of regular household detergent. Let the solution sit for fifteen minutes before scrubbing off with a broom. Sealing pavers immediately after installation decreases the chances of getting displaced or disfigured.
The pavers set in sand move and adjust, so in case a piece of pavers is chipped off in the process, immediately replace it. So keeping a few extra pavers in stock is a good idea, in case the particular design suddenly goes off the market. You don’t want to ruin a perfectly symmetrical patio with one mismatched paver.
If the pavers are laid on sand, check them annually to see if the pieces have sunk. Brush in sand in the space in between them, if necessary. The sand in the joints should be half as high as the level of the pavers. Sealing concrete in between prevents this problem.
Cleaning pavers should not be put off. The surfaces of the pavers are porous and quickly absorb oil; the longer the oil remains, the deeper it sets making the stain permanent. Get oil removers from a local hardware store, but make sure it is not acidic. Acidic chemicals can react with the salt of the pavers and damage them.
Weeds growing in the pavers are a nuisance, especially when they force cracks through the tiles themselves! Sealing pavers mostly avoid this, but sometimes if the weeds are not plucked for a long time, they can be dislodged from their slots. Apply a weed killer to get good results. If the pavers are not matt finished applying a stone polish can prevent weeds from growing profusely, along with providing protection. If you want some greenery in between your pavers, scatter short rooting grass or herb seeds evenly along the joints.
It is advised to lay pavers in the sun. If your pavers don’t get enough sunlight, there would be a chance of them getting infested with moss. This not only degrades the appearance of the pavers but also decreases their durability. Sealing pavers can prevent algae growth.
Another problem often springs up due to the salt present in most of the Large format pavers; efflorescence. This is a white chalky residue that forms on the surface of the pavers in contact with water or on its own. This can be cleaned using concentrated cleaners. Sealing pavers minimizes the formation of the residue. Pavers, being regularly trodden on, must be cleaned and polished to keep them intact for a long time.
When people look at the pavement they see something to drive and walk on. As a property owner, you see an expense. As a contractor, I see trip hazards and possible damage claims.
People are fickle and loyalty is not what it once was. If your parking lot is filled with potholes and navigating them frustrates the driver, they will go somewhere else next time. It is the same with your sidewalks, if they are full of puddles or raised pieces people will not feel secure and frequent another establishment. People want comfort, security, and convenience. Many business owners concentrate on these things once the customer is through the door.
As a property owner or manager, you should work with an experienced contractor. Your contractor should inspect your pavement annually. This will result in preventative strategies, alternatives, and cost projections. This will allow you as the owner/manager to develop a budget and a plan for your pavement maintenance. A reputable contractor will be mindful of your need to work within your budget and work with you to prioritize the work needing to be done.
Preventative maintenance has many benefits for you as the owner/manager. Identifying problems at the early stages ensure they won’t become large ones later. By having these inspections done you will be addressing issues and therefore minimizing damage claims, both the frequency and degree of settlements. If there is litigation these inspections and work orders will be invaluable to show due diligence on your part.
An awful-looking parking lot will not encourage customers to come into your business and this will cost you money in lost revenue. Dangerous pavement will cost you in lawsuits. Budgeting for pavement maintenance is a low-cost alternative.
