Why concrete
pavers?
Concrete pavers are the ideal product for freeze/thaw environments. Proper
installation of the product results in a pavement that is rigid yet flexible.
The joints between pavers allow the walkway, driveway, patio, etc. to move
without cracking. In addition, they can be unzipped to allow for repairs or
access to utilities. Unlike asphalt, pavers are virtually maintenance-free and
do not need to be regularly sealed or replaced. By definition, concrete pavers
have a minimum compressive strength of 8,000 psi (about 3 times stronger than
regular poured concrete) and a maximum water absorption rate of 5%.
Why are they
called interlocking concrete pavers?
It is the system that makes them interlocking concrete pavers, not necessarily
the shape. When installed properly, the combination of the pavers, bedding sand,
edge restraint and joint sand causes them to interlock, allowing them to work as
a unified, flexible pavement.
Does the color go
all the way through the paver?
Most are manufactured with a process that concentrates an extra dosage of cement
and pigment on the wear layer. You'll never wear through this layer over the
lifetime of the installation. Other pavers may have pigment throughout.
Should I use a
fabric under my installation? When and where is it used?
We recommend a separation fabric (e.g. Mirafi's 500X) under all paver
installations. The fabric is laid on top of the compacted soil in the excavated
area and keeps the aggregate base material from working its way into the soil
subgrade. This is especially important where the soil contains a lot of clay. At
a cost of pennies a square foot, the separation fabric provides an insurance
policy against base failure.
Why pavers instead
of patterned or stamped concrete?
Patterned concrete pavements are merely slabs of concrete that are embossed with
a pattern. Therefore, they are prone to the same problems with freeze/thaw
cycles, namely cracking and spalling. Pavers won't crack or spall; you cannot
expect the same for stamped concrete. Stamped concrete requires expansion joints
every 10 feet or so which are very distracting in some patterns. Also, patterned
concrete pavements don't allow access to underground utilities or the ability to
make repairs. At virtually the same price per square foot installed, pavers are
clearly a better choice.
What are the
advantages of sealing my pavers?
Sealers offer three advantages: they help resist stains, enhance the color, and
bind the sand in the joints to make it difficult for weeds to germinate.
Sealers, however, are topical products and must be reapplied regularly
(generally every 3-5 years).
What can I do if
my pavers are stained or damaged?
One of the advantages of pavers is that individual units can be removed and
replaced in these situations. Remove the sand around the paver and then use two
flat head screwdrivers to lift the paver out. Rocking the paver gently in a back
and forth motion will facilitate removal.
Can pavers be used
for my driveway, too?
Absolutely! 8 to 12” of compacted base material is recommended for residential
driveways. A standard 2-3/8” thick paver can be used for light vehicular (cars
and pickup trucks) applications.
Can pavers be used
for my pool deck?
Not only do pavers make an attractive pool deck, but they also provide a slip
resistant surface to walk on. Pavers actually are better than poured concrete
around pools from the standpoint that the joints will take on moisture and leave
the pavement cooler under foot. Like all products that are used outdoors,
lighter colors will tend to stay cooler as they reflect the sunlight.
Furthermore, bullnose pavers make a nice pool coping. Make sure the soil around
the pool is well compacted before installing pavers.
My new pavers have
a white haze on them. What is it and how do I get rid of it?
The white haze is most likely efflorescence which occurs when the natural salts
in the raw materials settle on the surface of the paver. This is common with all
masonry products. Surface moisture acts as a wick to draw out these salts. The
best course of action is to do nothing; natural weathering will remove the
efflorescence generally within 6-12 months. Chemicals specifically designed to
remove efflorescence are available. They will only remove the surface salts and
cannot stop the process. Carefully follow the directions if you decide to use
these products. They are caustic in nature and can damage the pavers if used
improperly.
For more information please contact us at (281) 340-9206 or go to our online request form.
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