Contractor Tips Blog

Jan
23

Top 3 Tips on How to Maintain Your New Pavers

Posted in Paving

Are you thinking of investing in a new paver driveway, patio or pool deck, or just had one installed by a local contractor? Pavers are an excellent choice to add beauty and value to your home, and as a bonus, they are easy to maintain. While pavers do not require extensive maintenance, they will last longer and keep their beauty if you do keep up with a few upkeep tasks. Here are the top three tips to maintain new pavers to get the most from your investment.

  1. Keep them clean. Oil, chemicals, dirt and moss can all have an impact on your new pavers. They are simple to clean; just sweep away dirt and debris as needed, then hose them off or gently pressure wash them when spills or grime accumulate.
  2. Sealant. Sealing your pavers will give them a nice shine and protect them from stains. Talk to your paving contractor about sealant and how often it is recommended for your type of pavers and region.
  3. Repairs. Repairing a paver surface is much easier and less expensive than many other types of paved surfaces. Individual pavers can be removed and replaced as needed if they are chipped or cracked. However, procrastinating on replacing a cracked or broken paver can lead to more damage on surrounding pavers. Make sure to call your paver contractor right away to have a broken paver replaced.

Congratulations on choosing one of the most beautiful options for paving. With a little upkeep and maintenance, your new paver driveway, pool deck, patio or walkway can last for many years and add value to your home.

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

Jul
21

5 Advantages of Pavers Over Concrete

Posted in Paving

Whether you are installing a new driveway, patio, pool deck or sidewalk, there are two common paving options to choose from: pavers or concrete. Concrete is the cheaper option in most cases, but that does not mean it should be an automatic choice. While both will give you a stable surface, there are advantages to using pavers, including these five.

  1. Pavers come in a variety of materials and design options that can create a beautiful surface. Circles, geometric designs and herringbone patterns are just some of the possibilities.
  2. Maintenance. Pavers are simple to maintain, requiring very little cleaning, sealing or other care to keep them looking great. Concrete can crack, need sealing or stain easily, requiring more maintenance and repair.
  3. Repair. Cracks, chips or stains are much easier to repair when you have a paver surface versus concrete. A single paver can be replaced without needing to repair the entire surface. Pavers often need fewer repairs than concrete as they are not a solid surface that can crack under pressure.
  4. Drainage. Pavers can offer better drainage than concrete that may allow water to settle on the surface. This is especially important for pool decks and driveways.
  5. While concrete may be less expensive, pavers can add more value to your home. A paver driveway, patio or pool deck is an upscale option that can enhance the value of your home.

If you have a new paved surface on your wish list, consider the advantages of using pavers. Whether you choose brick, natural stone or concrete pavers, it can be an excellent investment in your home. Make sure to use an experienced paving contractor to complete your project for the best results.

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

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

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

Jul
3

Creating The Perfect Paver Patio

Posted in Paver Driveways

If you are considering building a new patio for your front or back yard, consider using pavers to create a beautiful outside area. Pavers are an excellent material choice for home patios, with low maintenance requirements and high durability. In addition, pavers come in a wide variety of sizes, colors and materials, making them highly versatile for home décor. 

Choosing The Right Patio Pavers

The most important aspect of creating a beautiful patio with pavers is choosing the right paving stones for the job. Pavers come in many types, including formed concrete, brick and natural stone pavers. Almost any paver can be used to build your patio; however, you want to choose the material, color and shapes that will best accent your landscaping and home. 

  • Cement pavers. Cement pavers, especially those that are stamped, are an affordable option for creating a patio. However, they will not have the same durability as many of the natural stone choices.
     
  • Brick pavers. Brick is also a classic option to make a nice patio for your home. Like cement, they are fairly affordable, yet will not necessarily last as long as some natural stone pavers.
     
  • Natural stone pavers. For a patio that can last for decades with a beautiful, natural appeal, stone pavers are the best choice. Tumbled marble or travertine pavers are perfect choices for patios, both with high durability and aesthetic qualities. 

Although it is possible to build a paver patio on your own, having a professional paver company design and install your patio can ensure that it is done exactly the way you envision. Let the experts do the hard work of putting your new patio together, then pull out your patio furniture and enjoy the rest of the summer on your stylish new paver patio! 

Posted on behalf of Tri-County Pavers & Design Corp.

Jan
4

Some Varieties of Travertine Pavers

Posted in Paver Driveways

Travertine, a natural stone of the limestone family, is one of the many materials used to make landscaping pavers. What sets travertine pavers apart from other types of pavers however is the stone’s unique texture coupled with its marble-like appearance. Travertine pavers are also much sought after for their attractive ivory, cream, and gold colors. Travertine’s durability, heat-resistant qualities, and rustic charm make it the ideal choice for patios, walkways, entryways, and pool decks. Below are a few varieties of travertine pavers. 

1)      Filled travertine

Travertine pavers are described as ‘filled’ when small holes, cracks, and other surface irregularities have been smoothed out with grout.  Not all of the holes and craters are filled since these irregularities are what give travertine its unique texture and character. Travertine is usually filled prior to honing or polishing, although some filled travertine pavers are not honed.

2)      Honed travertine

Honed travertine pavers have been sanded with an abrasive to make them smoother and flatter than they normally would be. The process changes the appearance of the stone, giving it a dull, matte finish. Honed travertine may be filled or unfilled. Honed travertine pavers stain more noticeably compared to polished ones.

3)      Polished

Polished travertine pavers are those which have been polished with a special gem abrasive to give them a smooth and shiny look. Unlike other types of travertine pavers which need to be sealed in order to prevent staining, polished travertine pavers are very resistant to staining and usually do not require sealing.  Polished travertine pavers are not as natural-looking as the other types of travertine pavers, and floors paved with polished travertine are slippery when wet.

4)      Tumbled

Tumbled travertine pavers are those which have been treated in a tumbling machine to soften the edges, allowing for a closer fit during installation. Tumbled travertine pavers look and feel more natural than other types of travertine pavers because they have more texture and reflect less light. Tumbled travertine is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent etching and staining.

Feb
27

Paver Driveways

Posted in Paver Driveways

If you are building a new home, or looking for a way to add to the attractiveness of your existing home, consider installing a beautiful new paver driveway.  Not only do interlocking paver driveways add to the beauty and value of your home, they have many advantages over concrete or asphalt driveways.

Interlocking pavers are concrete, brick or stone blocks that are manufactured in a wide variety of shapes, colors and styles.  Each paver is designed to interlock with the adjacent pavers to minimize movement and maximize weight distribution. 

Interlocking pavers require less maintenance than asphalt or concrete driveways and because they allow for some movement, they can expand and contract with heat and cold and will not crack like concrete or asphalt. 

Pavers are also much easier to repair than concrete or asphalt driveways.  Repairs involve removing the affected pavers and replacing them.  If the ground has shifted or if the area had to be dug out under the driveway for some reason, the ground can be leveled and the pavers reinstalled.  Unlike a concrete or asphalt driveway, the repair will be virtually invisible. 

Installing a paver driveway is something best left to an experienced landscaper.  Pavers are relatively easy to install and many do-it yourselfers install their own patios and walkways, but for a large project like a driveway that will be bearing a lot of weight you will get a better, more durable driveway by having it installed by a professional.  When you are ready to install an attractive new paver driveway, call a reputable local landscaping company that specializes in installing interlocking pavers.

Feb
27

Paver Driveway Repairs

Posted in Paver Driveways

Paver driveways add an aesthetically pleasing element to any home or business.  Interlocking pavers are available in a huge array of colors, textures, and styles and the arrangement of the pavers is only limited by your imagination. 

One of the many advantages of interlocking paver driveways is that they are easily repaired.  Paver driveways need very little maintenance and usually give great service year after year, but the soil under almost any driveway will shift or settle over time. Tree roots can also grow under the driveway over the years.  

With a concrete or asphalt driveway, the result will be cracks and breaks in the concrete or asphalt that can only be repaired by cutting out that section and replacing it.  The repaired section will be obviously different than the rest of the old driveway.  In addition, sometimes a water line or other utility line that runs under a driveway needs to be replaced or repaired and the only way to get to it is to break up the driveway and pour new asphalt or concrete.

With paver driveway repairs, a repair can easily be made by a professional landscaper or paver driveway company that will not be noticeable.  Interlocking pavers allow for some movement between the pavers so the pavers themselves rarely crack or break.  Shallow ruts or depressions may form where the ground has settled, or a high spot may develop where tree roots have grown under the driveway, but the pavers are usually still in good shape. 

To repair these areas, the pavers in the affected areas are carefully removed and the bed is leveled as needed and then compacted.  The pavers are then reinstalled and the repaired driveway is ready for many more years of great service.

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