Natural Stone Pavers: Three Practical Tips on Extending Your Surface's Lifespan
Posted on: 19 December 2017
Natural stone pavers are perfect for building solid patios and creating stunning pavements because of their unique aesthetic appeal. Their authentic beauty will complement both modern and traditional homes. Also, natural stone is a durable material. Therefore, you will enjoy prolonged service after installing the surface. However, you should note that if you neglect the pavement, you will not enjoy these benefits. In simple terms, the surface will lose its beauty or break down prematurely, necessitating the repair and replacement of the damaged pavers. Therefore, you must perform regular maintenance to prolong the lifespan of your natural stone surface. Here are some basic guidelines to get you started.
Seal the Surface
You should seal your natural stone pavers regularly for optimal performance. In general, this type of material can withstand harsh conditions such as high mechanical pressure. However, some of the stones are highly porous which makes them vulnerable to water damage. If the stones are left bear, they will allow the penetration of moisture. As a result, the structure could weaken and experience premature failure. Sealing the stones will eliminate this weakness, promoting the durability of the surface. Also, the coating will minimise the risk of staining. You should remember that different pavers have varying levels of permeability. Therefore, it is important to check your manufacturer's recommendations on sealing products.
Clean the Pavers
You should clean the natural stone pavers on a regular basis. This practise is essential for the preservation of the authentic beauty of the surface. Also, if you clean your solid patio or pavements frequently, you will minimise the risk of staining and discolouration. Cleaning natural stone surfaces is quite easy. In ideal circumstances, you should sweep the surface to eliminate leaves and general debris. Then, you can use some water and soap to scrub and mop the stones for optimal results. You should note that some stones, such as travertine, are highly susceptible to corrosion. Therefore, you should always choose pH neutral soap for cleaning the pavers. Additionally, you should remember to rinse off the soap residue after scrubbing.
Repair Damage
You should keep a close eye on your natural pavers. Regular inspections of the patio or pavement will help you identify common problems in their early stages. Therefore, you will be able to perform repairs on time before complete degradation. You should watch out for problems such as cracking, dislodgement of pavers and sinking of certain sections. If you notice these issues in your home, you should consult an experienced paving contractor.
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