The term “hardscape” refers to the “hard” surfaces of your outdoor space, such as patios or pavers. Hardscapes exist to add some extra functionality to your outdoor living areas, and can also be very aesthetically pleasing additions. Of course, if they are to remain functional and attractive, then you must make it a priority to maintain them.
Here are a few steps you should take when maintaining paver patios and other hardscape features in Kansas City to keep them looking great for years to come:
- Sealer: After you’ve had your hardscape installed, you should make sure to seal it. This will not only bring out the colors, but also protect it from stains. A high-gloss finish will bring out the color, but a matte finish will do more to protect the pavers and cut down on the amount of maintenance you have to perform in the long run. When making your decision, you should think about how much work you’re willing to put into maintenance and consider your overall goals for your hardscape.
- Sweep and clean: You should regularly sweep off the surfaces of your hardscapes to remove leaves and debris. Otherwise, if they remain on top, they could start to decompose, causing stains or mold. You should also occasionally use your garden hose to spray off debris that gets stuck on a little tighter. A pressure washer can be used on occasion to remove surface stains, but if you do not have access to a pressure washer, you can use a mixture of dish soap with water and a stiff-bristle broom. You can find special hardscape cleaners on the market—just make sure you read the instructions before applying them.
- Gaps: Keep an eye out for any locations in between pavers or stones where the joints are increasing in size. This is a term known as “creep,” which is caused by failure of proper edge restraint, as well as the environmental stresses caused by the freezing and thawing cycles over the winter. Heavy traffic might also cause stones and pavers to push out over time. Failure to address these gaps can result in deformities appearing in the hardscape.
- Weeding: You should make it a priority to pull out any weeds that start to poke up through the cracks between the tiles. You should remove not only the weed, but also the roots—this will prevent them from re-growing. You can use certain weed-killing products to kill off the weeds entirely before removing them.
- Loose jointing sand: Check every now and then for loose polymeric jointing sand. This can help you prevent additional erosion from occurring. If there is loose sand, it might be necessary to re-sand the joints and then add a sealant to help you create a better bond. If you do use a sealant, make sure you distribute the product well.
These are just a few examples of some of the steps you should take for proper hardscape maintenance in Kansas City. For more information about maintaining your patio pavers and other hardscaping, contact the experienced contractors at MSE Hardscape Design and Installation today.