Pavers are fast becoming the most popular materials used in patios and driveways throughout the world. Thanks to their popularity, there are many questions surrounding their installation and use. Here are the most popular or often asked questions. If you have questions, please feel free to ask and we will answer them as soon as possible. However, most questions can be answered here.

Why should I choose pavers over other forms of patio flooring?

Pavers last longer and more far more durable than any other type of flooring including patterned asphalt, stamped concrete, concrete poured slabs, or wooden structures of any kind. Pavers are also far less expensive over the long haul, considering they will never need to be replaced… only repaired should they become damaged. Repairing pavers is also easier and less obvious than patching any of the other options.

Exactly how long can I expect my pavers project to last?

Believe it or not, a pavers patio or even a pavers driveway is designed to last far longer than any other materials currently available, up to and more than 30 years. Pavers can last longer than this if properly cared for. Properly installed pavers shift with the ground, which means impact tremors and weather should have little or no effect upon them as they do with solid slabs or flammable wood.

How long does it take to install my pavers patio?

Depending upon the complexity of your design and the square footage involved, the average project can be installed and ready for use in a day or two. Some projects can take longer if complicated patterns with plenty of paver cuts are required or in extremely large areas of square footage. Weather may also be a factor if it interferes in the middle of the project. Excessive rain at the right time needs to dry up before the ground can be compacted properly.

What is the white powdery stuff on my pavers? Will it go away or do I need to treat them with something?

That white powdery substance that looks like a white dust is natural and will go away by itself in time. It is called Efflorescence. It is a natural process in which the calcium oxide inside of your brick pavers reacts with moisture on the inside of the brick. This reaction presents as a powdery white dust. It will go away by itself or it can be washed away with a cleanser that is designed to stop it from happening. This cleanser can be found anywhere pavers are sold or you may ask your contractor where to obtain it.

What if I decide to add on to the project at a later date? Can it be done?

One of the best reasons for selecting pavers for your patio is that it can easily be expanded. The edge restraint is removed (The Edge Restraint is the edge that anchors the border of the patio, ensuring the pavers do not spread and is the strongest part of the pavers patio)  Once removed, the ground needs to be prepared and compacted, the new pavers installed, and the restraining edge reinstated. You can add on to your project as often and in any direction you desire.

Can my pavers be installed over the top of an existing structure such as a patio slab or walkway path?

While it is possible to lay pavers over existing structures… it is not advisable. There is no way to tell what condition the underside is in. If the ground rises or heaves with freezing weather, your new pavers will as well. There is also a height issue if there are doorways involved. It is possible, but the new pavers must be carefully installed and there are no guarantees that the existing slab will not affect the pavers down the line. The best option is always starting from scratch so that all of the variable can be controlled.

Are there weed concerns in pavers that have space between them?

All pavers should have space between them, however, the conditioning of the ground and materials used pretty much negates the possibility of weeds growing through the cracks between the pavers; however, this does not mean that new weed spores will not find their way between the cracks and begin to grow in the sandy dirt. If you live in an area where there are a lot of weeds growing nearby, they can be dropped into cracks by wind or carried in on the bottoms of your shoes. If this happens, simply treat the pavers with a weed killer at the start of each season to prevent weeds from growing and keep on trucking.

Do I need to use a sealant on my pavers after installation?

Your pavers are manufactured to be long lasting and extremely durable. You may use a sealant on them if you prefer. It has the advantage of helping to seal in the color and it may prevent those spoors from weeds taking root. Sealing your pavers could also make them slippery when the pavers are wet or even just damp. You should completely clean your pavers just prior to sealing them. Make sure they are completely dry before applying sealant.