Patio Pavers are the number one choice for patios and walkways in Montgomery, Chester and Berks Counties. They are low maintenance, weather and fade resistant, attractive and durable. Plus the many styles, colors and shapes allow for patio design creativity. They are more attractive than concrete, more affordable than natural stone and can transform your backyard living area or greatly enhance your walkway curb appeal. Read more about Why Patio Pavers Are a Great Choice for Hardscaping.
Chances are if you’re reading this blog, you’re contemplating the design and installation of a new patio or walkway or perhaps you have inherited a paver patio and you want to have some questions answered regarding maintenance. Either way, we will answer of the most common questions about your existing patio pavers or soon-to-be installed patio pavers.
Related: How to Create a Great Hardscape Design for Your Backyard Getaway
How Are Patio Pavers Made?
Aberdeen slab Techo-bloc pavers with a soldier bolder. Installation in Spring City, PA
Most concrete pavers contain sand, gravel and cement and are manufactured with a process that creates a complete pigmentation throughout the entire paver. The ingredients are mixed together and pressed into their shape. Different ingredient mixes and finishing methods produce a smooth or rustic look.
Do Weeds Grow Between the Pavers?
Polymeric Sand inhibits the growth of weeds.
Polymeric Sand helps prevent weeds growing between pavers.
Polymeric sand is a mixture of sand and polymer, a binding agent. We feel it’s the best choice because it won’t let weeds grow between the stone. The same feature prevents ants and other pests from coming up between the stone or compromising the structure beneath the pavers. This sand outlasts and outperforms the usual jointing sand and has outstanding resistance to the elements, pests and weeds.
How Do You Maintain Patio Pavers?
Downingtown patio installation using Techo-bloc Blu 60 pavers.
Caring for patio pavers is incredibly easy. Sweeping occasionally and cleaning with water is all that is necessary. Definitely sweep leaves off in the fall to avoid organic stains. A low-power pressure washer will effectively remove stains.
However, the reality is that pavers over the years can be slightly affected by harsh weather, snow, and rotting leaves. Sealing pavers is an option that many homeowners choose to enhance the color and make the pavers more stain resistant and easier to keep clean. Whitehouse Landscaping uses the Seal ‘n Lock System which is ecologically safe and child/pet friendly.
Damp, shaded areas are naturally prone to moss growth. Should you come to have moss in your joints, try using 5 parts water to 1-part chlorine bleach to remove the moss. Apply the mixture with a watering can or siphon sprayer, lightly scrub with a nylon brush and rinse well.
What Gives Pavers that ‘Wet’ Look?
Techo-bloc Blu 80 polished pavers. Photo Credit: Techo-bloc
As we mentioned above, sealers will give your pavers that wet look. Sealers are not needed for the protection of the pavers, but rather the look that they give. Sealers should only be applied after the patio installation has weathered one winter. This is to ensure that all efflorescence has worn off. Some sealers have moss inhibitors built in.
What Is the White Residue on Some of My New Pavers?
This reside is often referred to as efflorescence and is both normal in all concrete and clay brick products. Occasionally, the mineral salts from the cement and aggregates that are embedded in the product are dislodged by absorbed water and transported to the surface. It’s not a product defect. Typically it will disappear in approximately 90 days or could take up to 24 months after the manufacturing process.
Will Pavers Crack in Extreme Freeze/Thaw Conditions?
As long as they are property installed, the pavers will remain stable. The joints between the pavers create flexibility, which avoids cracking, while still allowing subtle movement. Pavers are many times stronger than poured concrete.
Are Repairs Easy on Patio Pavers?
Mark leveling sand for new patio in Gilbertsville, PA
Since pavers move independently, unlike poured concrete, which can crack from ice heaves or tree roots, repairs are easy. You simply pull up the affected pavers, make the repair, and put them back.
What Is the Difference Between Slabs and Pavers?
Both categories are highly durable, easy to maintain, and come in a variety of shapes and colors. But the main difference is in design and application possibilities and sometimes the load that they can bear. If the surface is designed for pedestrian traffic, such as patio, sidewalk, pool decks, etc, then either pavers or slabs are appropriate. Slabs, however, are not suitable for vehicular traffic. Slabs and pavers can also be combined to create interesting visual effects with borders and mosaics.
For additional articles on patio pavers, check out:
How to Select the Right Pavers for Your New Patio or Walkway
How Much Does It Cost to Install Patio Pavers
Paver Patio Certified Contractor Serving Montgomery and Chester Counties
Conclusion
Durable and versatile, pavers will bring form and function to your property while complementing your landscape’s natural components. Whitehouse Landscaping has almost 20 years of experience in patio design and installation. We take pride in our skills and knowledge to design and install the best looking patios that stand the test of time…and to stand up to pesky weeds. We have installed hundreds of paver patios in the Wayne, Pottstown, Phoenixville, Collegeville and nearby communities.
What to chat with an expert?
Ted Whitehouse loves designing hardscaping outdoor living spaces. He can share with you the most current information on products, trends and elements in the patio paver market and assist you in creating a design that is perfect for your family, property and lifestyle.