When you first had your paver installed, it looked immaculate. Everything fit together like a Ravensburger puzzle. Nothing was too big or small, edges were cut clean, and the surface was level. But that was then; this is now. Your perfect walkway has gone through a lot since its creation. Every year, it’s endured moisture, fallen leaves, fluctuating temperatures, and other forms of trials and tribulations—all without a new coat of paver sealer.
With the impending Maryland winter (which is predictably unpredictable), your hardscape is about to once again be put to the test. The freeze-thaw cycles that greet us every year are going to do their darndest to inflict wear, stains, and paver-shifting. Without some paver maintenance, your beloved walkway stands to take unnecessary abuse from the elements.
In this blog, we’ll give you a crash course in winter prep. Get ready to break out the paver sealer, cleaner, and general know-how to keep your hardscapes undamaged!
Step 1: Clean the Surface Thoroughly With Paver Cleaner
Cleaning matters when it comes to walkways and other outdoor surfaces! Our beloved fall weather, cozy as it may be, can lead to dirt buildup, algae and moss, leaf stains, and other grime. Left untreated, such things can worsen throughout the season, making it harder for sand and paver sealer to bond properly. With a bit of proper paver cleaner, you can avoid this issue!
Types of Cleaners
- General Paver Cleaner: Used for routine cleaning and color restoration
- Efflorescence Remover: Meant to eliminate mineral deposits that can give your hardscape a white, powdery look
- Organic Stain Remover: Best for tackling leaves, algae, and similar stains
Tips for Best Results
- Sweep loose debris off the surface
- Following product instructions, apply the cleaner
- Scrub the surface with a stiff brush or use a pressure washer
- Rinse thoroughly and give the surface time to dry
Step 2: Re-Sand the Joints With Polymeric Sand
The next step in paver maintenance is joint care. No, we’re not talking about arthritis prevention. We’re talking about the joints between your stones, bricks, or other paver materials. Enter polymeric sand. It stabilizes the stones to prevent shifting in the winter. On top of that, it’s great for reducing weeds and blocking ants from establishing a home there. To top it off, it can help prevent erosion that would otherwise be caused by rain, sleet, and snow melts.
How to Apply Polymeric Sand
- Remove loose joint sand
- Using a broom, sweep the new sand into all joints
- Make sure the sand fills to slightly below the edge of the paver
- Mist the surface with water to activate the binding agents
Performing this process before the cold of winter goes a long way towards preventing joint washout, which is a common cause of looseness and instability.
Step 3: Seal the Pavers for Maximum Protection
Now let’s discuss paver sealer. It acts as a strong shield against salt products, moisture absorption, stains, and fading. It’s also a great way to enhance your pavers’ colors!
As we’ve stated before, the DMV sees plenty of freeze-thaw cycles throughout the colder months of the year. With a good sealer, you’re mitigating the risk of cracking and spalling on patios, driveways, walkways, pool decks, and more.
Recommended Sealers
- Wet-look: Offers a rich, enhanced finish
- Natural-look: For subtle protection that doesn’t alter appearance
- High-gloss: Gives a bold shine while enhancing surface durability
Final Inspection & Touch-Ups
Before you wrap up the sealing process, it’s good to take a few minutes to inspect your work. Keep an eye out for low spots, sinking pavers, and loose edges. If you notice any, fill them appropriately to counteract the shift. This can be done with the aforementioned polymeric sand.
Depending on the product you’re applying the paver sealer to, a second coat may be recommended. If this is the case, follow the recommendation. You’ll be happy you did when you see the longevity it provides!
Why Buy Your Paver Maintenance Supplies From RELS Landscaping Supply
We recognize we aren’t the only provider of supplies like sealers for your hardscapes. However, our differentiator is a commitment to offering not just any products, but the right products. Products that are worth your money that get the job done the first time. Shop at RELS and it’s more than picking up a product and taking it to a counter. You’ll get knowledgeable recommendations from our team, because we actually use the products we offer and we love our landscapes!
Seal the Deal
The new year is calling, and freezing winter weather is even closer. Refreshing your hardscapes with paver sealer and performing other maintenance tasks is one of those projects you won’t regret doing now. When you see the value it provides, you’ll be kicking yourself for not doing it sooner!
If your aim is to winterize your landscaping and hardscaping, come to RELS. If you want to plan ahead for spring and stock up on supplies for warmer days…also come to RELS. Get in touch and we’ll answer any questions you have!