Maintenance
Maintaining Your Atlas Block Paving Stones
When installed according to ICPI Specifications (see www.icpi.org), interlocking concrete pavements need minimal maintenance and will create an attractive and durable surface. Nonetheless, they are still exposed to dirt, stains and the general wear and tear that any outdoor surface would experience. The information contained here provides general guidance on cleaning paving stones, removing stains, and joint stabilization or sealing if required. You should always use stain removers, cleaners, joint sand stabilizers, and sealers specifically designed for concrete pavers. You can also learn about efflorescence (a whitening on the surface of your pavers).
The best resources to learn more about cleaning, sealing and joint sand stabilization for interlocking concrete pavements is Tech Spec 5 produced by the ICPI, and attached here in PDF format.
If your pavement system will be used for pedestrian traffic during winter months, you should use only sodium chloride (NaCl) or sand as a de-icing compound to address slippery conditions. Note that the use of any other de-icing compounds will deteriorate your concrete surface and void our warranty on your product.
One of the advantages to choosing concrete pavers over other concrete surfaces, is that concrete pavers can act as a “zipper” in the pavement. If it is necessary to make underground repairs, interlocking concrete pavements can be removed and replaced using the same product. Unlike asphalt or poured-in-place concrete, segmental pavements can be opened and closed without using jack hammers on the surface and with less construction equipment. This means no ugly patches and no reduction in pavement service life. In addition, no curing means fast repairs, minimal user delays and lower costs. The process of reusing the same paving units is called reinstatement.
For more information on reinstatement of interlocking concrete pavements, see Tech Spec 6 produced by the ICPI, and attached here in PDF format.
Milliken Farms Garden Centre
