Caring for Your New Pavers
Your new paver surface requires very little immediate care. With a few simple maintenance habits and an understanding of what’s normal, you can keep it looking its best for years to come.
Right After Installation
No immediate action is required. You may notice a light layer of sand appearing on the pavers after rain or foot traffic. This is normal and can be swept away or lightly blown off with a hand blower held at a low angle.
Jointing sand is swept between the pavers and compacted during installation. Although we remove the excess, some sand may work its way onto the surface afterward. It will usually settle after a few heavy rains, although it can occasionally continue through the first season.
What You May Notice
Natural variations
Pavers are designed to have some variation in color, texture, and appearance. Depending on the style you selected, you may notice distressed edges, different surface textures, or small imperfections. These variations are intentional and give the finished surface a more natural look.
A white or chalky haze
A white haze may occasionally appear on the surface of the pavers. This is called efflorescence and occurs when naturally occurring salts rise to the surface. It is most common during cool, damp conditions and will usually fade on its own within a season or two.
If it remains, professional cleaning products are available to help remove it.
Preventing and Treating Weeds
Most weeds do not grow up from beneath the pavers. They begin when grass clippings, soil, and airborne seeds collect in the joints and germinate.
To help prevent weeds:
• Keep nearby lawns and planting beds under control.
• Blow grass clippings and other debris off the pavers after mowing.
• Avoid allowing soil or organic material to build up in the joints.
If weeds do appear, they can be treated with a post-emergent weed-control product, such as Roundup. Always follow the product directions carefully.
Removing Moss
Moss usually develops in shaded areas that remain damp after rain. Some homeowners enjoy the aged, natural look it creates, while others prefer to remove it.
To remove moss:
1. Apply a solution of 20% dish soap and 80% water.
2. Rinse the surface gently with a pressure washer.
3. Use a fan-style nozzle on a low-pressure setting.
4. Hold the nozzle at a 30-degree angle and at least 12 inches from the surface.
Avoid using high pressure or holding the nozzle too close. Doing so can damage the paver surface or remove sand from the joints.
Joint Sand Options
Standard jointing sand
Standard jointing sand is made from small, angular particles that lock the pavers in place while allowing water to move through the surface.
Polymeric jointing sand
Polymeric sand is swept into the joints, compacted, and activated with water. It hardens within the joints, helping hold the pavers in place while deterring weeds and ants. It will not prevent them completely.
Both standard and polymeric joint sand will eventually need to be touched up or reapplied. This is typically needed every three to seven years, depending on weather, use, and the condition of the patio.
Preventing Ants
Ants do not appear in every paver installation, but they may be more likely if your property already has a large ant population.
A properly installed paver surface includes a 4- 6-inch layer of crushed stone and approximately 1 inch of concrete bedding sand. Polymeric jointing sand can also help discourage ants, although it cannot guarantee they will stay away.
If ants continue to be a problem, sealing the pavers after the recommended waiting period may provide additional protection.
Sealing Your Pavers
Sealing is optional and largely a matter of personal preference. A sealer can deepen the color of the pavers and offer added protection against stains.
If you choose to seal:Wait approximately three months after installation.
• Make sure the pavers are completely clean and dry.
• Do not seal over efflorescence or other surface residue.
• Plan to reapply the sealer every three to five years, depending on use and exposure.
Cleaning Spills
Pavers are made from concrete and can absorb grease, oil, wine, and other liquids. Clean spills as quickly as possible to reduce the chance of staining.
Different spills may require different cleaning products, so choose one intended for both the substance and the type of paver. Treatment is most effective within the first 24 to 48 hours, although acting immediately is always best.
Maintenance Service & Program Offerings
Reder Landscaping offers a full range of services and programs to help protect your investment and keep your property looking its best. Our dedicated Property Managers are available to walk your property, answer questions, identify potential concerns, recommend adjustments in care, and coordinate repairs when needed.