Paver & Natural Stone Guide
NEW INSTALLATION
Concrete, clay, and natural stone pavers (bluestone, sandstone, limestone) require minimal maintenance to provide you with years of enjoyment of your patio, sidewalk, or driveway.
Within the first month after installation, you may notice some sand residue on the paver surface or a small amount of sealing in the paver joints. This is normal. Sealing in the joints may be corrected by adding some of the same jointing sand that was used on the original installation (polymeric sand or Easy Joint are the most commonly used). This could take more than one application, but is not typical.
NOTE: Polymeric sand is typically used with joints no larger than one inch. Easy Joint is also a type of polymeric jointing sand used with joints one inch or larger. Please note: Both kinds of jointing sand require a very specific application process. If the process is not followed, damage to the pavers is possible. Also, any type of jointing sand will require some maintenance after installation due to New Jersey’s freeze/thaw cycle.
SEALING
For most paver and natural stone products, sealing the surface is NOT recommended. Precast manufactured pavers, such as Techo Bloc, can be sealed to enhance or deepen the color, but this is not necessary. Please note: Once you choose to seal the pavers, you will need to re-apply the sealer following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
SNOW REMOVAL & DE-ICING
To remove snow from your pavers, use a plastic shovel or plastic blade protectors on your snow plow or blower.
Please note: Any de-icing product has the potential to damage paver material. However, if you do plan to de-icer your pavers, two types of products are recommended:
Sodium Chloride (NaCl) – for use in temperatures down to 20o F
Calcium Chloride (CaCl2) – for use in temperatures between 20o F to -2o F
Other recommendations when using de-icing products:
Use the minimum amount to melt the snow and ice. Excess de-icer should be swept up and removed.
Avoid rock salt or magnesium-based products as they are very aggressive and will cause damage to hardscape surfaces.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE & CLEANING
Concrete and clay pavers are porous and, along with natural stone, can be stained and/or weathered with age. Routine sweeping is recommended, especially in high traffic areas. If a deeper clean is desired, you may need to carefully use a pressure washer.
There are a few general guidelines when pressure washing your patio. Do NOT use the high power nozzle setting/attachment with your pressure washer as this will etch the surface. Always keep the nozzle at an angle and at least 12 inches away from the surface, using the fan nozzle setting/attachment. Be gentle around joints so as not to dislodge too much jointing sand.
Cleaning solutions are another option for cleaning your patio. Check your local retail store for general cleaning solutions and specialized ones designed for oil and grease or efflorescence. A mixture of 20% dish soap to 80% water applied with a soft bristle brush can also be used. Always be gentle with the jointing sand. Do NOT use a wire brush as pieces of wire can become dislodged promoting rust and/or scratch the paver surface.
With either process, re-applying jointing sand could be required once the surface and joints are completely dry. Please note: Cleanliness and color rejuvenation are not guaranteed through any process. The age of your product can affect the color.
WEED PREVENTION & TREATMENT
The best way to prevent weed growth is to use polymeric sand between paver joints. However, not all dry laid pavers have polymeric sand joints. In this instance, a pre or post emergent herbicide is recommended for weed control. Test a small area of the paver to ensure it does not stain and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.