Paver Care & Maintenance

Efflorescence comes to us from chemistry, and means loss of water from crystal. When a crystalline substance loses water a deposit is left and this process and the actual deposit is called efflorescence. It is harmless and is formed from a mineral which is basically a water soluble salt.

Efflorescence will wash away with special detergents and will stop appearing once the source of water is removed. Efflorescence may pass quicker in an area that has frequent rain and sunny days. The process will take longer in drier climates. Typically, efflorescence will stop developing in approximately 18 to 24 months. Since many factors are involved in its formation, it is difficult to determine when exactly efflorescence will stop. Just as it appears naturally it will eventually disappear naturally. Over time, rainwater can wash away efflorescence. If you would like to have the efflorescence removed quicker your pavers can be cleaned with a commercially available cleaning formula specific for concrete pavers. Cleaning should be performed immediately after efflorescence has appeared. It may reappear as long as the chemical reaction continues and cleaning of the pavers may need to be done until the efflorescence has stopped forming. Most cleaners contain acid and detergents, so be sure to follow directions when cleaning the efflorescence off the pavers. Careless or improper cleaning can result in injury, damage, and discoloration of the concrete pavers. Also test a small are before applying any cleaner to the entire surface. After cleaning, the pavers should be completely dry and free of efflorescence before applying sealer.

It is not necessary to seal your pavers. Sealing, however, may enhance the colors, protect against stains, and prevent joint sand from washing out. Allow a minimum of 60-90 days after completion of the installation before sealing. Consult your supplier for recommendations on cleaning and sealing.

Your pavers should be sealed every three to five years determining the wear and tear of the surface where your pavers were installed.

You may clean your pavers with a low pressured pressure washer. You may also use warm water to penetrate the pores and remove dirt and mildew. There are chemicals for concrete pavers that you may purchase to clean the pavers. Since concrete is pourous, oil and grease can get deep into the concrete making it difficult to remove. Sealing the pavers will help prevent oil and grease from penetrating the surface, allowing you to keep it clean with products as simple as grease cutting dish detergent.