1. Sweep Pavers

Begin your spring cleaning by sweeping off debris like leaves, dirt, and twigs. Regular sweeping prevents staining and maintains the aesthetic appeal of your pathway or patio.

2. Re-Level Any Uneven Areas

Winter can be harsh on your paving stones, causing them to shift or sink. Spring is the ideal time to adjust any uneven pavers to prevent tripping hazards and ensure a smooth surface.

3. Top Up Joint Sand

Joint sand stabilizes pavers and prevents weed growth and insect invasion. Check and refill the joints with fresh sand if they appear depleted, especially after the rainy season.

4. Use Polymeric Sand

For new joint sand applications, consider polymeric sand. This type of sand contains additives that harden and bind when wet, providing a stronger and more durable hold.

5. Wash Stains Immediately

Tackle stains from leaves, oil, and other contaminants as soon as you notice them. Prompt cleaning prevents permanent discoloration and keeps your pavers looking new.

6. Seal Your Pavers

Apply a sealer to protect your pavers from moisture penetration and staining. Sealing enhances the color of your pavers and makes future cleaning easier.

Maintain Your Interlock Pavers This Spring

Could your interlock pavers use some TLC this spring to make them look their best? Courtesy of Grand River Natural Stone, here’s a helpful infographic featuring 6 ways to bring the best out of your patio stones.

Just click on it to view a larger version.

Come to us for more paver tips and products

Interlock pavers are a great way to add value and personality to your home. And taking care of them in the spring extends those benefits too.

If you want more interlock care tips or a FREE quote on any of the products we carry, all you have to do is contact us.

The post 6 Tips for Spring Interlock Maintenance (Infographic) appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

If there is a great deal of foot traffic on your paving stone, they can fall victim to wear and tear or they can be stained with mud, oil spills, and salt. When you know how to properly maintain paving stones, they will remain looking great throughout their long life!

If there is a great deal of foot traffic on your paving stone, they can fall victim to wear and tear or they can be stained with mud, oil spills, and salt. When you know how to properly maintain paving stones, they will remain looking great throughout their long life!

Cleaning Paving Stone

Cleaning paving stone is relatively simple, and should be done often. Routine cleaning will keep dirt from becoming embedded in the stones. Begin by using a garden hose with a spray.

• TIP: If there is a great deal of dirt embedded in the stones, or stubborn dirt, you can use a pressure washer. Cleaning interlocking pavers with a pressure washer will allow you to avoid using detergents which can damage the stone. Because a direct spray with a small nozzle can damage the surface of the stones, you should use hot water and a fan spray.

Next, sweep the pavers with a broom. This will replace any sand that was removed from the pressure washer.

• TIP: If you are going to use a detergent, test a small amount in the corner to make sure that it will not discolor your paving stone. You should apply the cleaner using a brush, broom, or a paint roller. Allow the cleaner to set for about 5 minutes. If you need to scrub the stones, you should use a broom or a pressure washer.Finally, rinse with a garden hose.

Finally, rinse the paving stones with a garden hose.

• TIP: You should clean your paving stone at least once a month. If you find that you need to clean it more than once a month, you should wash it with water only. You do not want to overuse detergent when cleaning paving stone. Be sure to consult manufacturer’s instructions when using paving stone cleaners or shampoos, as some brands follow slightly different processes.

Sealing Paving Stone

After you have finished cleaning paving stone, you may want to seal it. The sealant will protect your paving stone and makes cleaning easier. In many cases, sealer will keep you paving stones looking like new. Before you seal your paving stone, you should check the weather forecast. If there is going to be rain within 36 hours after you apply the sealer, you should wait. It is best for the sealer to dry at least 36 hours.

When choosing your sealer, there are three options, each offering a different result:

• Saliane or Siloxane will repel water
• Sodium or lithium silicate densifer will strengthen the pavers
• 100% acrylic lacquer will give your pavers a high gloss finish and a wet look

To apply the sealer, you should use a roller or a sprayer. The method that you use will depend on the sealer that you use. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine which method you will be using. For best results, you should apply two coats of sealer. Allow the first coat to dry for 24 hours, before applying the second coat.

It is not necessary to apply a sealer each time you clean paving stone. Depending on type of sealer and wear/traffic of your paving stone, reapplication of sealer is only necessary every 1-4 years.

Get More Paving Stone Tips from the Experts at Grand River Natural Stone

Paving stones are a great landscape accessory which adds value and personality to your property. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that they last for a long time – in both appearance and function.

If you want more tips on taking care of your paving stones, just ask. Contact the Grand River Natural Stone location near you and request a quote or consultation.

The post How to clean and seal paving stone appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.