Mrs. Fixit: Concrete Pavers

May 20, 2012 (WPVI) -- Concrete pavers are a great choice for a walkway or patio. They need little maintenance and with the proper care will last and last. I have some tips!

Whether you're hiring the job out or taking it on yourself make sure to use polymeric sand rather than a loose aggregate to fill between your stones.

The polymeric acts more like a mortar. it is brushed between the pavers to set them once they're in place and then misted with water. The polymers in the sand harden to prevent washout, anthills and weed growth.

An aggregate will eventually migrate out of the joints and cannot prevent pests or weeds from infiltrating. So while concrete and stone have salts in them. Moisture can cause these salts to rise to the surface causing a phenomenon called efflorescence which appears as a white haze on the stone.

You can buy chemical cleaners to remove it, but I recommend a stiff bristled nylon brush and some hot soapy water.

Another option is to seal the stone after it has had time to acclimate to it's new home. There are lots of sealer out there from those that you won't notice to others that enhance the color and give you a permanent wet look.

These sealers can be applied with a foam roller and will allow you to remove stains and spills more easily as well as to protect the stone.

A tip - if you live in a cold weather climate - make sure you choose a calcium chloride product rather than rock salt to remove ice - it won't damage the stone like the salt can.

I'm Mrs. FIXIT and it's just that simple!!!

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