Contractor Tips Blog

Feb
17

3 Ways to Improve Your Outdoor Cooking Area

Posted in Paver Driveways

Do you love grilling and cooking outdoors? There is something about cooking outside, and eating alfresco, that makes meals more enjoyable. You can get out in the fresh air and relax with friends and family, all while creating wonderful food to share. Why not make it even better with an improved outdoor cooking area? Here are three ways to enhance your cooking area outdoors to make it simpler to grill and prepare your alfresco meals.

  • Expand your patio. If you are stuck grilling in the grass, it is time to expand your patio to include a cooking area. Whether you opt to revamp your entire patio or just add on a paved area for grilling, you deserve to have a level spot for your grill. Tumbled marble or travertine pavers are a perfect fit for your patio and outdoor kitchen area.
  • Go big. Consider investing in a complete outdoor kitchen for your patio. Your grill can be the centerpiece, but having counters and burners for cooking your pasta or corn-on-the-cob makes it easier to complete the entire meal outside.
  • Add plumbing. Don’t bring in those messy pans into your indoor kitchen to scrub when you are done grilling. Plumb in a sink for easy cleanup outside and quick access to water for making your meals.

An outdoor kitchen or cooking area can add value to your home and make afternoons on your patio with friends and family more enjoyable. Talk to your local paving contractor about extending your patio to include an outdoor cooking area or complete kitchen to make the most out of your outdoor living space.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
954-603-3244

Nov
30

How to Maintain Your Paver Surface

Posted in Paver Driveways

One of the many benefits of using stone pavers for your pool deck, driveway or patio is the low amount of maintenance needed. Unlike many other paved surfaces, pavers are simple and easy to keep looking great for many years. However, although maintenance is low, caring for your pavers can make them look like new and last even longer. Here are a few maintenance tips to care for your stone pavers.

  • Cleaning. Stone pavers are simple and easy to keep clean. Most can be cleaned with plain water from a hose or pressure washed on a low setting. If there are any stains, use a mild detergent and scour the spots with a brush, then rinse clean.
  • Edging and weed control. If there are gaps in or around your paved surface, you may need to do occasion weed control to keep it looking neat. Pull any weeds, edge the outside area and treat to keep weeds at bay.
  • If erosion occurs under your paved area, some pavers can settle or heave up to make an unlevel surface. While a few pavers may need to be removed, this is another benefit of pavers versus a solid surface. Repairs are less expensive since the entire surface is not usually affected.
  • Repairs. Replace any pavers that are cracked or chipped. Your local paving company can quickly repair broken pavers to keep your patio, driveway or pool deck looking like new.

Stone paver driveways, patios and pool decks can last for decades if maintained. Keep your pavers clean and well cared for to protect your investment into your home. Scheduling annual maintenance through your paving contractor can ensure your surface is kept in great shape and gets the ongoing care it needs.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
954-603-3244

Apr
5

Five Benefits of Travertine Pavers

Posted in Paver Driveways

Travertine has become a popular paving material, offering a beautiful surface that is durable and easy to maintain. This stone has been used for centuries to build roads and buildings, dating back thousands of years. In fact, travertine was often used in ancient Rome and many of the buildings still exist today, a testament to its longevity as a building material. If you are considering building a pool deck, patio or driveway with travertine pavers, here are five benefits of using this durable stone in your home improvement project:

  1. Porous for drainage control. Tumbled travertine pavers are porous, making them ideal for pool decks and other wet surfaces. Water is absorbed quickly, leaving a dry surface that is slip-resistant for safety.
  2. Heat resistant. Another benefit of using travertine on surfaces where bare feet will be common is the heat resistance. The hot summer sun will not affect the surface of travertine, making it ideal for bare feet on your pool deck and patio.
  3. Repairs. Unlike a solid paved surface, travertine pavers can be easily repaired by removing only the pavers that are damaged. This can save on repairs when and if any of your pavers crack or chip.
  4. Travertine is extremely strong, withstanding up to 8000 psi. In most cases, travertine can handle more pressure than brick or cement pavers, making them ideal for driveways.
  5. Beauty. Travertine is naturally beautiful, adding value to your home. These pavers come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes to create a gorgeous surface that will last.

Travertine is worth the investment for any paved surface around your home. Talk to your local paving company to learn more about the benefits of travertine for your next paving project.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Sep
9

Maintaining Your Paver Pool Deck

Posted in Paver Driveways

One of the many benefits of owning a paver pool deck is the low maintenance these beautiful decks require. Compared to other pool deck materials, pavers tend to offer more beauty and value while withstanding fading from the constant exposure to the sun. Yet even paver pool decks do need some maintenance over time to protect your investment. To keep your paver pool deck looking great and functioning properly, scheduling time for maintenance is crucial. Here are some of the ongoing maintenance chores to consider before the summer months:

  • Weeding/edging. Depending on your paver pool deck, you may need to remove weeds and edge the perimeter of your deck. Weeds can detract from your pool area and cause issues with your deck.
  • Pressure washing. Pavers are easily cleaned with pressure washing to keep them looking fantastic for pool parties and family gatherings.
  • Repairs. If your paver pool deck is older, it may need some repairs. Treating spots, replacing cracked pavers and leveling heaved areas are critical to protecting your deck. Paver repairs should be performed by a professional paver service company.
  • Sealing. Many paver pool decks may need sealing every few years to protect the surface. Your local paver company may offer sealing service.

While you can do some maintenance yourself, many of the ongoing paver maintenance projects are best performed by a paver service company. Scheduling a pool deck maintenance service for your pavers can ensure they are cleaned, repaired and sealed properly, making your deck look like new again. Call your local paver service company that offers pool deck maintenance to schedule your spring cleaning and repairs today.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Jun
23

Transforming Your Home Using Concrete Pavers

Posted in Paver Driveways

Over the last few decades, concrete pavers have gone from an option used in mostly upscale communities to gracing homes in all income levels of neighborhoods. Although more economical than natural stone pavers, concrete pavers still tended to used less often than poured concrete for driveways, walkways, patios and other residential structures. However, the industry has seen a boom and has created more options for homeowners in all budget ranges.

Growth in the Concrete Paver Industry

In 1980, it was estimated that only 80 million SF of concrete pavers were used in North America (mostly the U.S. and Canada). In 2014, the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) reported 542 million SF of concrete pavers used. The industry is booming as more homeowners realize the benefit of using these versatile paving materials for their homes, creating beautiful and durable surfaces that are elegant in design.

Concrete pavers come in a fantastic variety of options, from interlocking pavers to individual pavers, all in different colors, shapes and sizes. These paving stones can be used to create fantastic designs, giving homeowners an option to transform their homes from ordinary to extraordinary. Driveways, sidewalks, pool decks and patios can be custom designed using these versatile components that are as stunning as there are durable.

If you are looking for a way to improve the overall style and elegance of your home, consider using concrete pavers for your next paving project.  Consult with your local paving company that offers concrete pavers to discuss design and budget options. You may be surprised how affordable it can be to upgrade your home’s curb appeal using beautiful concrete pavers.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Mar
13

What Are Travertine Pavers?

Posted in Paver Driveways

If you have been considering using pavers for a new driveway, pool deck or patio, there is a good chance you have come across travertine pavers in your research. Travertine has become one of the most popular paving materials for outdoor projects, especially in warm regions such as the southeastern portion of the U.S. So what is travertine and why is it so prevalent in paving? Here are some facts about travertine pavers.

  • Often called travertine marble, travertine is not a marble at all, but instead a type of limestone. It is found in many different areas around the world, including most notably from Italy, as well as Turkey, Mexico and here in the U.S.
  • Travertine comes in a wide range of colors from pink and coral to dark tan and white. It can be tumbled and porous or polished and shiny, making it versatile and great for many uses.
  • Travertine is highly durable and is easy to maintain in outdoor paving structures. It is also fade resistant and easy to repair.
  •  Pavers can be cut in a variety of sizes and shapes, plus its natural beauty makes it wonderful for creating unique designs for patios and driveways.
  • One of the elements that makes travertine ideal for patios and pool decks is its cool exterior. Unlike bricks or cement that are hot to bare feet in the summer, travertine stays cool.

This durable, beautiful stone is one of the preferred natural stones that works well for most outdoor paving projects. If you are planning on using pavers for a new project, ask your local paving company about the option of travertine pavers.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Jan
28

Enjoy the Benefits of a Paver Driveway

Posted in Paver Driveways

Are you still living with a gravel driveway? Or maybe you have a crumbling asphalt or concrete drive that needs to be replaced? If you want to upgrade to a beautiful new look for your home, consider adding a natural stone paver driveway. The classic style of a paver driveway has many benefits, including:

  • Adds value to your home. Pavers driveways can increase the curb appeal of your home and even increase the value. Pavers are one of the most desirable driveway surfaces and add an element of elegance to any abode.
  • Uniqueness. Pavers can be used to create unique designs and patterns that set your home apart. Unlike concrete and asphalt driveways that are identical to others, paver driveways can be created with tumbled marble or travertine pavers, with each stone naturally unique.
  • Easy maintenance. Pavers are one of the easiest driveway materials to maintain. Simple pressure washing can keep pavers looking great year after year. Repairs are also easy and cost effective as only the damaged pavers need to be replaced.
  • Durability. Another reason pavers are a popular option for driveways is their durability and flexibility. Since they are not a solid surface like asphalt or concrete, pavers allow for soil movement without cracking or destroying the entire surface.

Your driveway is one of the first things guest see when they come to your home and a surface you use every day. If you are ready to pave your driveway, research the benefits of using natural stone pavers for a classic, beautiful driveway that will last for many years. Call your local paver contractor to learn more.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Jan
6

5 Reasons to Use Pavers for Your New Driveway

Posted in Paver Driveways

Are you planning on paving your driveway and can’t decide whether to use concrete, asphalt or pavers? Although all three will give a smooth surface without the inconvenience of a gravel driveway, pavers are the ideal surface for driveways for several reasons. Take into consideration these five reasons to invest in a paver driveway for your home.

  1. Curb appeal. By far, the most beautiful surface for your driveway can be accomplished using pavers. There are a wide variety of colors and designs you can create, adding pizazz to your home’s curb appeal with a uniqueness you won’t find with concrete or asphalt.
  2. Value. Although pavers may be a higher initial investment than asphalt or concrete, they also add value to your home. The classic style of travertine, brick or tumbled marble pavers can increase the worth of your home.
  3. Easy maintenance. Pavers are easy to clean and maintain without needing sealcoat reapplied like asphalt or some concrete driveways.
  4. Simple to repair. Over the years, all driveways will eventually need repairs. Whether a tree root grows under the drive or erosion causes issues, paver driveways are simple and affordable to repair since only the pavers affected need to be replaced.
  5. Matching your home. No other paving material gives you the versatility of pavers. You have the ability to match the color and style of your home, adding to the ambiance and aesthetic value.

There are endless options when it comes to designing a paver driveway, making your path to your home a work of art. Talk to your local paver contractor to find the best paver options for your new driveway.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Jul
25

Are You Experiencing Drainage Issues Around Your Paver Pool Deck?

Posted in Paver Driveways

One of the most beautiful options for pool decks is the use of pavers. It offers a classic, contemporary style for your pool area and is ideal for the wet area around the pool. However, in certain situations you could experience drainage problems on your pool deck due to a variety of issues. If you have water pooling on your paver pool deck, you need to investigate drainage solutions to resolve the problem. 

Pool Deck Drainage Issues

There are several reasons water is not draining properly around your pool deck. One of the benefits of using pavers for a pool deck is that water is allowed to drain easily when it is installed properly. This can be through drainage channels that are added when the deck is installed, plus water can seep between the joints and down to the sand underneath. However, some construction issues can lead to improper drainage, including: 

–          Cement under the pavers. If pavers were put over existing cement, water cannot drain down between joints. The water can become trapped under the pavers, causing mold, mildew and damage.

–          Slope issues. For water to drain off the pool deck, a slight slope is usually needed for the drainage channels.

–          No drain system. In some cases, a paver pool deck was not equipped with any drain system to handle excess water. 

To resolve drainage issues, there are several solutions that can be used. The solution will depend on what is causing the drainage problem. Common solutions include increasing the slope or elevation, or adding drainage channels, deck drains or even a sump pump drain. To explore what drainage option is best for your paver pool deck, call your local paver installation contractor.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Apr
8

Spring Maintenance for Your Paver Driveway

Posted in Paver Driveways

One of the benefits of owning a paver driveway is the low maintenance required in comparison to other material options. However, this does not mean these driveways are maintenance-free. To keep your paver driveway looking beautiful for many years to come, you need to protect it from water erosion and weed infestation with some annual maintenance. Spring is the perfect time to bring back the beauty of your pavers with a little cleaning and repair.

Cleaning, Sealing and Repair

The three phases of your spring paver cleaning should start with cleaning and end with sealing, if appropriate. Most pavers can be cleaned with the use of a pressure washer or by using a common water hose with a long-handled scrub brush. Remove any stains or mildew that have accumulated on the pavers over the year; for tough stains, use a mild detergent with the scrub brush.

Once the pavers are clean and dry, remove any weeds that are trying to grab hold between pavers or along the edge of the driveway. Plants roots can destroy pavers over time, so keeping grass and other weeds at bay is crucial. While cleaning and weeding, keep an eye out for any pavers that are cracked or chipped; these should be removed and replaced before sealing.

Finally, consider sealing your paver driveway to keep it protect from water erosion and make it easier to clean in the future. Sealing should be done every 2-3 years to maintain your driveway. For both repairs and sealing, consider using a local paver professional service. With the right equipment and experience, they can ensure that your driveway will look like new for the summer ahead.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

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