Fairfax VA Spring Hardscaping Maintenance

In the spring, homes around Fairfax VA will need some hardscaping maintenance. This hardscaping maintenance has four major parts: inspection, cleaning, repairing, and sealing. For the purpose of this article, we’re going to focus on paver hardscapes - driveways, patios, and walkways/sidewalks.

Inspection

Inspection means walking these hard surfaces. Any damage, instability, staining, or Efflorescence is noted.

Cleaning

The tools used for cleaning your hardscaping depends on the condition of the hardscaping. In some cases, spot cleaning can be done with rags or brushes and some mild cleaning solutions. If the surface is really dirty or stained, but in stable condition, power washing is the best way to get the job done. However, power washing must be done carefully, or the surface could be easily damaged.

Cleaning includes:

• Sweeping off loose dirt from the pavers
• Rinsing the pavers; try to remove as much loose dirt as possible, careful not to damage the pavers; if a garden hose can’t do the job, then try a power washer.
• Removing stains with a simple solution of dishwashing liquid and water, and use rags or a brush to clean the stain off.
• Removing oil, using a oil remover (usually sold at automotive stores).

Repairing

Inspect your pavers again at the end of the cleaning process. Pavers that have been chipped, cracked, or have stains that won’t come out will need to be replaced. The good news is that single or multiple pavers can be replaced.

The final part of repairing your pavers is replenishing the sand filler. The sand filler goes in between your stone pavers to help hold them in place. It can wear down due to inclement weather and wind. If you notice that the sand is low in between certain pavers, purchase a bag of refined sand and pour it into the cracks.

Sealing

Sealing extends the life of pavers. This easy process can be done yearly and will keep your pavers looking new, prevent grass from growing in between your paving stones and help to keep ants and other bugs off of your pavers.

For more information about hardscaping maintenance, please contact the experts at Premier Paving. Established in 1987, Premier Paving & Planting, Inc. provides free estimates, and delivers a full compliment of high quality landscape services, including concrete work and lawn and garden services, along with installation and maintenance of permeable and non-porous paver and hardscape surfaces and structures. NCMA and ICPI certified, Premier Paving is licensed and insured, and carries an A+ rating from Angie’s List.