Paver Sealer Gone Bad

Cleaning and sealing concrete or brick pavers sounds like a pretty easy thing to do. The truth is that it is an involved process and without the proper training, tools and materials it is very easy to screw up.
Sealing pavers is not a do it yourself project. It is extremely time consuming and detail orientated.
Hiring your landscaping company to clean, install polymeric sand and seal is not a great idea either.
I've seen situations where when installing polymeric joint sand, they leave too much in the joints and some even on the surface of the pavers. This will cause wide white joints that look like failing grout lines. Then without properly blowing off the pavers it will leave a white haze that will get trapped under the sealer. Another huge mistake is sealing the pavers before they were dry leading to the white haze on the surface of the pavers. These are all situations that can be around for a long time and although not permanent, you don't need the added expense of doing it a second time.

 
Sealing your concrete or brick pavers is a wise investment and when installed right can give you years of enjoyment and protection.

For a free consultation call Paul Saladino  www.stonecreationsoflongisland.net

Office: (631) 678-6896
Mobile: (631) 404-5410

Maintenance To Keep Up Your Curb Appeal

A new driveway can be quite expensive but it also adds value to your home. Well maintained driveways show that you take pride in your home and makes it look welcoming.
An asphalt driveway is a popular choice and can look great when its first installed but without proper care it can look terrible pretty quickly. You should avoid spilling oil or grease because it can damage the surface. Make sure to clean up spills quickly. Once a week rinse the asphalt to remove grime and dirt. After the first year its installed inspect for any cracks or issues and have it sealcoated.
The key to keeping your concrete driveway looking great is with cleaning and sealing on a regular basis. Concrete driveways should be sealed every 2 years when you notice the finish is starting to wear off. 
A paver driveway while initially higher in cost to install has more long term value and its ease in repair or maintenance makes it one of your best choices for instant curb appeal. Paver driveways require minimum maintenance if there protected with a good sealer and polymeric sand. For the best appearance a paver sealer should be applied every few years..
Call Stone Creations of Long Island Pavers and Masonry for a Free Consultation
Office: (631) 678-6896
Mobile (631) 404-5410

Concrete vs Pavers

When designing a residential landscape, cost is always a factor that must be considered, especially if you have a fixed budget. Installing pavers for your outdoor living area is an inexpensive way to beautify your landscape. There are many cost benefits of using pavers compared to other materials including the purchasing of materials, the installation costs and of course the long term maintenance.

Pavers will last a life time if properly looked after. Pavers are low maintenance, giving you more time to enjoy your outdoor living area rather than maintaining it.  Pavers just need a regular hosing down to remove any excess dirt or debris that may appear from the surrounding garden. High pressure cleaners can be used but make sure the force is not too fierce or it could damage the pavers. A simple wash will ensure your pavers preserve that pristine appearance for many years to come. Also using a paver sealant when installed properly will ensure your investment will last for many years to come and it also enhances the colors and makes it much more easier to clean.

Concrete slabs are very popular mainly because of the low costs involved for the installation. However, you must consider the long term benefits and costs involved. The costs of repairing pavers can be far more beneficial that those for repairing a concrete slab.

 Cracking can occur in a pavement of any kind, most commonly caused by earth movement and weather conditions. If there is a crack in a paver, that one paver can be easily removed and replaced and look brand new again. There would be no evidence of the cracking. However, if there was cracking in a concrete slab, to repair this would mean the whole slab would have to be removed and laid again. The only other alternative is to leave the slab as is which will look very unattractive and can become hazardous over a period of time.

Realistically, the costs benefits of installing a concrete slab may initially seem to exceed the installation of pavers, however the costs benefits of pavers will far outweigh the concrete slab in the long term.

Contact Stone Creations of Long Island Pavers and Masonry for a free consultation
Office: (631) 678-6896
Mobile: (631) 404-5410