Creep

The curved chalk line follows the vehicle tires
into this driveway. Not only do the pavers
creep in this example the bed sand is
pushing outward from the loads.

This picture illustrates Creep. While Creep can happen on patios and walks it is much more common on driveway applications where repetitive breaking or turning loads from vehicular traffic are present. Inappropriate paver shape, thickness, aspect ratio and laying pattern will lead to Creep. Improper choice or installation of an edge restraint system can also contribute to Creep.

All to often creep begins with poor choices. Interlocking Concrete Paver Institute (ICPI) suggests a 60 or 90 degree Herringbone pattern for driveway applications. Not all people like the "look" of this pattern and designers give way to that sentiment allowing homeowners other choices. While short term the homeowner has received what they wanted, long term it becomes a disaster. 

There are multiple edge restraint systems and the ultimate would be a poured in place concrete curb. Concrete curbs will not push outward from vehicular turning loads. Flush concrete beams can also be poured with in the body of an installation to help keep it in place preventing Creep.

Creep affects the structural integrity of an application leading to loss of interlock and joint/bed sand washout. While replacing a driveway using the correct paver and laying patterns may not be feasible, The Paver Doctor has proven methods of repair. Feel free to call regarding this or any other issues related to your pavers. We specialize in paver Repair-Restoration-Sealing.

Cleaning

A variety of methods can be used to clean pavers. A leaf blower can remove leaves and grass clippings. A garden hose with spray nozzle can remove surface dirt. A stiff brush and a lot of elbow grease followed by the hose and spray nozzle can remove even more dirt. And homeowners can include a variety of cleaners. Hedberg Landscape and Masonry Supplies have 3 metro locations where you can find a full line of do it yourself spot and general cleaners available.  

What about the pressure washer? Most pressure washers available at the home improvement stores are over powered and under fed, resulting in pressures that can strip the Cream Coat off of new pavers and old. Finishing concrete and during the manufacture of pavers a Cream Coat forms on the top surface. The surface you see (including the color) hides what is below and that's a lot of small rocks (and not that much color).

The Paver Doctor recommends the use of hot water (160 degrees) low pressure (300-600 PSI) and high water volume (5-8 GPM) to clean pavers. Cleaners need proper dwell, agitation and rinse. The applications must be worked in two different directions. Glass, wood or metal siding, veneer stone or brick and stucco must be protected from acids based cleaners. Consideration of run off into planting beds, lawn and ultimately watersheds will direct what chemicals can be used. 

The key to cleaning stains is to do it quickly after it happens. Reactive  measures are much more successful when a proactive approach is taken. A sealant application will reduce stain absorption. Sealants are designed to prevent the penetration of contaminants including dust, dirt, oil that dull the colors of pavers. Regular maintenance cleanings become quick, easy and much less intrusive to the colorful Cream Coat.

Dirty soiled pavers are both an appearance issue and can affect the integrity of the paver by holding onto moisture which during freeze thaw periods can lead to spalling. Feel free to call The Paver Doctor to assess this or any other issues related to your pavers! We specialize in paver Repair-Restoration-Sealing.

Polymeric Sand

Some of the specialty work we do should NOT be tried by
the DIY and this is on of them

With its many attributes, Polymeric Sand  has become the joint sand of choice on new paver installations. Polymeric Sand  is either a fine or course graded sand mixed with polymers. After placement, the joints are watered in, activating the polymers. After cure the joints harden off which helps resit erosion, weeds and ant infestation. 

Polymeric Sand is also a great solution in high slope areas greater than 7%, high wind areas or areas that experience concentrated water runoff. Preventing joint sand washout that is common with these conditions.

Problematic sand entering into a pool or home can also be solved with the use of Polymeric Sand on pool decks and entry areas.

Installing Polymeric Sand  is relatively easy, although activating the polymers full depth in the joint takes patience and practice. The proper amount of moisture is paramount to a successful activation. Over watering or flooding the substrate will create the polymers to rise out of the joints and over the top of the pavers leaving a Polymeric haze. 

Polymeric Sand does have limitations and is not always the best joint sand choice. Shaded or poorly draining areas will retain moisture and effect the appearance of the finished joints. Feel free to contact The Paver Doctor for more information on Polymeric Sand. We specialize in paver Repair-Restoration-Sealing.         

Look closely to notice Polymeric Haze.
Polymer's are lighter than sand and water thus over flooding
while activating will cause polymers to float up and rest on top of the paver

We use acids to break the bond of polymers to concrete.

Joint Sand

Joint sand is responsible for the vertical interlock of a paving system. High slope areas, water run off, wind and aggressive cleaning can result in erosion of joint sands. Joints should be filled to the bottom of the chamfer or in the case of tumbled pavers 1/8" from the top. Substantial loss of joint sand could result in a loss of vertical interlock affecting structural performance.

Not all joint sands are created equal. Both fine and course Mason sand contains rounded aggregates that tend to wash out (being replaced by dirts). They do not lock together as sands with symmetrical particles. The angular or symmetrical sands take much longer to consolidate in tight paver joints which is why most contractors neglect to use them. 

The picture to the left shows: (from left to right are) Fine Masons Sand, Course Granite Sand and a 50-50 mixture of both. With the addition of the angular Granite Sand, joints tend to stay consolidated longer and in many cases mixing custom blends of joint sands can achieve colors that highlight the colors of the pavers used in the project. 

If you are interested in more information or would like The Paver Doctor to blend a custom joint sand for you please call. We specialize in paver Repair-Restoration-sealing.