Friday, November 15, 2013

how clean pavers

Although patio pavers are low-maintenance, pleasing to the eye and require very little upkeep, they are not completely maintenance-free. Sealing your pavers will help protect them from stains and dirt and make future cleaning jobs  all the easier. Brick pavers are extremely porous and can quickly absorb certain types of stains, making it difficult to clean and restore their rustic coloring. Regular cleaning of your pavers before stains have had a chance to set deeply will keep them looking new and attractive.
maxproflooring.com

Instructions

    • 1
      Sweep the pavers well, paying special attention to the corners and areas that are up against buildings, where normal buildup occurs. Examine patio pavers for stains and discolorations. If you do not note any heavy staining, clean the pavers with a simple dish liquid or mild detergent that is acid-free and water. Slosh soapy water from a bucket over the pavers and use a heavy, stiff-bristled push broom to scour the bricks. Spray pavers with clean water several times over and allow to air dry.
    • 2
      Consider a pressure washer for heavier soiling. Do not use one with pressures above 3,000 psi. These higher pressures can damage the brick and remove needed sand between the pavers. You may also try a high-spray pressure nozzle attached to your garden hose.


  • 3
    Use a light bleach and water solution with a heavy scrub brush for small patches of mold on brick. Repeat the cleansing several times until the stains are removed. If you have a heavy mold problem, scrape the affected area clean with a shovel and brush heavily to remove and loosen mold. Wash the area down well with soap and water, then follow with a bleach solution.
  • 4
    Prepare to use some elbow grease on oil stains. Clear oil stains will usually meld right into patio pavers and not cause staining, but for those black ugly stains, use a cloth to immediately soak up any surface oil, being careful not to smear it or rub it further into the pavers. Some clay-based kitty litters work well on oily messes, in addition to talcum powder or corn flour. After the majority of the oil is sopped up, scrub with a detergent and water several times to help remove the oil stains. For heavily affected areas, try a liquid degreaser, but always test any commercial cleaners on a small spot of the pavers before doing larger areas. Some cleaners can affect the coloring and finish of pavers.
  • 5
    Absorb (don't wipe) paint stains---if they are fresh---with a cloth towel, then rigorously scrub with soapy water and a stiff-brushed scrubber. Avoid using paint thinners, turpentine or other harsh solvent as they can force the paint more deeply into the pavers. Dried paint stains can be scraped off and any residual paint may be removed with a paint stripper.

  • maxproflooring.com


    maxproflooring.com




    Thursday, November 14, 2013

    brick/pavers: get educated

    brick/pavers: get educated: STONE PAVERS OVERVIEW There’s no denying that natural stones are among the most attractive and prized landscaping and building material...

    get educated

    STONE PAVERS OVERVIEW

    There’s no denying that natural stones are among the most attractive and prized landscaping and building materials used by property owners, builders, artisans, architects, landscape designers, and contractors. It is primarily because of their sheer beauty and decorative possibilities that natural stone pavers are used extensively in landscaping.
    Additionally, landscape structures made of high quality natural stones such as granite, marble, slate, bluestone, limestone, porphyry, and flagstone are able to withstand extreme loads and weather changes. This means that you won’t have to shell out money just to have them repaired or replaced after some time. Stone pavers are also ideal for different applications (mostly outdoor) since they require very minimal maintenance. Usually, all you need to maintain their pleasant appearance is to regularly wash the surface using jet spray. While they may cost higher than other materials, they more than make up for it with their beauty, functionality, and incredible strength.
    Natural stones are generally quarried and used as is, while some are subjected to some kind of manufacturing processes just to make the stones more marketable. The dozens of available colors, finishes, textures, and designs of natural stones means that they are highly ideal for projects that require a great deal of personalization. Among the available stone pavers finishes, for example, are polished, thermal, honed, and flamed. Meanwhile, you may choose from full course, diamond, hexagonal, square, circle, marquise, and half-course paver shapes. You could also take your pick from the different patterns: basket weave, parquet, cobble-lock with edger, running bond, and 45- and 95-degree Herringbond.
    All of these benefits and features undoubtedly make stone pavers highly recommended for landscaping and building purposes.
     

    STONE PAVERS APPLICATIONS

    One of the benefits of using stone pavers instead of other materials is their versatility. For hundreds, even thousands of years, natural stone has been used to create some of the world’s most beautiful and lasting structures. In fact, some medieval roads using natural stone pavers still exist until now. These days, this type of paving material is still the popular choice of most homeowners and commercial property owners.
    Stones that are commonly used in interior and exterior applications are the following:
    • Granite. It is available in various patterns and finishes such as polished, flamed, and honed. Granite is an ideal material for walkways, driveways, pool decks, patios, and other interior applications.
    • Bluestone. While bluestone is traditionally available in blue-gray, different shades of colors are available. You may choose from natural cleft and thermal finishes and have this material used in pool decks, patios, walkways, and gardens.
    • Marble. This elegant material comes in wide-ranging colors, patterns, and shapes and can be honed, tumbled, or polished to perfection. Marble is ideal for areas with light foot traffic such as bathrooms, pool decks, patios, and outdoor fireplace.
    • Porphyry. Although available in thermal finish only, porphyry can come in various patterns, shapes, and colors. It is perfect for walkways and patios.


    STONE PAVERS PHOTOS

    See the following photos of stone pavers to gain a concrete idea of their beauty and benefits.
    Stone Paver Walkway
    Photo 1
    Stone Pavers and Retaining Wall
    Photo 2
    Natural Stone Pavers
    Photo 3
    Stone Paver Patio
    Photo 4
    Stone Patio
    Photo 5
    Stone Pavers
    Photo 6
    Stone Patio
    Photo 7
    Stone Walkway
    Photo 8
    Photo 1
    Photo Description:
    Stone Paver Walkway



    Note: Click on the thumbnail images to see the larger sized photos.

    RESOURCES

    Below is a list of Stone Pavers Resources throughout the United States.
    .: Manufacturers of Stone Pavers:
    Find Stone Pavers Manufacturers in the USA »

    http://maxproflooring.com/max-pro-flooring-pavers/

    CLAY BRICK PAVERS OVERVIEW

    Clay brick pavers offer astounding design possibilities that can make your property stand out. Clay’s innate earthy appeal makes it the perfect material for outdoor spaces as well as indoors. Meanwhile, the relatively easy installation and maintenance efforts that brick paver require makes it highly cost-efficient when compared with other available materials.
    Brick pavers are available in various exciting patterns that can help you achieve your dream look and feel – from basket weave, herringbone (at 45 and 90 degree angles), spin wheel, stack bond, running/stretcher bond, and many others. Additionally, they come in various colors such as red, buff, pink, orange, brown, and green. The different brick paver shapes also add up to the dozens of exciting design themes that contractors and landscapers can create for your property. Shapes like rectangle, square, fan, keyhole, parallelogram, X, and W allow for highly customized and one-of-a-kind look and feel.
    The decision on which brick paver pattern, design, color, and shape to use typically lies on clients like you but if you’re unsure of the right options, there are expert people who will gladly help you in the decision making process.

    Whether you’re building or remodeling your dream home or pouring yourself into your business, you bring all your hopes and aspirations into it. You’re fulfilling the American dream. At max pro flooring and pavers, we put that same level of dedication and commitment into each one of our products. That’s why they are simply the best hardscaping products (pavers and retaining walls) you can buy.
    Our revolutionary color-blending system gives you the most vibrant colors available in the market today. We use only the finest quality materials available from Florida mines resulting in products with smooth, hard surfaces and enhanced durability & strength. Our commitment to outstanding service and exceptional on-time delivery truly separates us from the rest.
     
    http://maxproflooring.com/max-pro-flooring-pavers/
     

    CLAY BRICK PAVERS APPLICATION

    Clay brick pavers are highly versatile landscaping and paving materials that can be used in a variety of applications, including, but not limited to:
    • Driveways. Driveways made of clay brick pavers are appealing and last for long because of clay’s strength. With the right paver installers, you’re assured that you and your guests will always have a grand entrance and exit with the sheer beauty of your driveway.
    • Patios. Some of the most handsome patio surfaces then and now are predominantly made of clay brick paver. The material’s warm and earthy characteristic makes it a favorite among landscape contractors and property owners alike.
    • Pool areas. It’s important to have a skid-proof material used in pool areas that are constantly wet. Use the wrong material and you’re essentially waiting for disaster to happen. Clay is essentially slip-proof, making it a truly ideal pool surround material.
    • Walkways/sidewalks. Just like pools, walkways and sidewalks must not be prone to accidental slip-and-fall. By using clay brick pavers, accidents will not only be avoided, you will also entice people to develop a healthy living regimen.
    • Gardens. Gardens aren’t all about flowers and plants and patches of soil and turf. The most interesting gardens actually have a combination of both softscapes and hardscapes. Expert contractors can guarantee your garden won’t be like a total bore by laying down stunning hardscape surfaces using high quality brick pavers.
    Aside from these, clay brick pavers can be used to build other concrete surfaces and outdoor amenities within your property. Just let your trusted paver installation provider know your desired structure and they can build it for you quick and easy. Choose an experienced paver installer so that you are assured that all of these structures are built to meet or exceed industry standards.

    CLAY BRICK PAVERS PHOTOS

    Browse through these photos to see how brick pavers can enhance your property’s beauty and functionality.
    Pool with Brick Pavers
    Photo 1
    Brick Paver Walkway
    Photo 2
    Patio with Pavers
    Photo 3
    Brick Paver Driveway
    Photo 4
    Intricately Brick Patterns
    Photo 5
    Standard Brick Pattern
    Photo 6
    Winding Brick Walkway
    Photo 7
    Brick Walkway
    Photo 8
    Photo 1
    Photo Description:
    Pool with Brick Pavers



    Note: Click on the thumbnail images to see the larger sized photos.

    RESOURCES

    Below is a list of Brick Pavers Resources throughout the United States.
    .: Manufacturers of Brick Pavers:
    Find Brick Pavers Manufacturers in the USA »

    http://maxproflooring.com/max-pro-flooring-pavers/

    CONCRETE PAVERS OVERVIEW

    Concrete pavers are among the most sought-after paving solutions by contractors, landscape designers, property owners, and architects. This is primarily due to the wide range of benefits that such paving materials provide. For one, concrete pavers are an extremely sturdy material that can withstand extreme weather changes without cracking. The segmental concrete paver variety, for example, contracts and expands according to the weather, hence preventing surface cracks from occurring. Certain types, like permeable pavers, are known to cut irrigation demand by half and reduce local Heat Island effects while effectively contributing to surface water management.
    Additionally, concrete pavers are highly load-tolerant and proven to withstand constant exposure to heavy loads. It is also very easy to repair and replace damaged pavers, hence saving the property owner huge amounts. Meanwhile, concrete pavers are also well-liked for their easy installation and maintenance. Most paver installation projects normally take just under two or three days to complete, while maintenance efforts typically require only pressure washing from time to time.
    Concrete pavers are also non-skid and thus a perfect paving solution for areas that are constantly wet and/or frequented by people and vehicles, like pools, walkways, and driveways. It is likewise highly versatile and allows for a great deal of customization with the many available colors, patterns, textures, shapes, and design options. With the right contractor, it’s possible to create any type of paver theme.
    Concrete pavers are truly one of the best landscaping and paving materials that you can have.

    CONCRETE PAVERS APPLICATIONS

    There are lots of practical applications for concrete pavers, making them a favorite among builders, contractors, and owners of commercial and residential properties. The various applications of concrete pavers include:
    • Patios. Probably the most common application of concrete pavers. Patios made of colorful and interesting pavers are almost sure to captivate onlookers’ attention and elicit sighs of admiration. With the various design options at your disposal, you can achieve practically every imaginable theme for your patio.
    • Driveways. It’s always a pleasure to drive in and out of your property with a scenic driveway to please your eyes. And some of the best driveways are made of premium quality concrete pavers from reputable materials suppliers. If you want your driveway to truly stand out, then choose concrete paver.
    • Walkways/Pathways. Walkways and pathways become more enticing to walk on when they’re made of fine concrete paver pieces. Moreover, various design patterns can be created with this paving material.
    • Decks. Pool decks are constantly wet and slippery and are thus hazardous to everyone taking a dip. Eliminate such risk by opting for non-slip paving materials like concrete pavers.
    • Outdoor kitchens. Outdoor kitchens can be made more attractive by incorporating a concrete paver flooring.
    • Garages. Protect you vehicles inside your garage from any skidding accident by choosing concrete paver for its flooring


    CONCRETE PAVERS PHOTOS

    Take a quick look of the following photos of concrete pavers to get ideas for your own property.
    Concrte Paver Driveway
    Photo 1
    Paver Walkway
    Photo 2
    Pool Coping
    Photo 3
    Concrete Pavers
    Photo 4
    Concrete Paver Path
    Photo 5
    Concrete Pavers
    Photo 6
    Laying Concrete Pavers
    Photo 7
    Concrete Paver Path
    Photo 8
    Photo 1
    Photo Description:
    Concrte Paver Driveway



    Note: Click on the thumbnail images to see the larger sized photos.

    RESOURCES

    Below is a list of Concrete Pavers Resources throughout the United States.
    .: Manufacturers of Concrete Pavers:
    Find Concrete Pavers Manufacturers in the USA »

    http://maxproflooring.com/max-pro-flooring-pavers/

     

    Product Colors

    Some limitations apply to color availability by product shape. View our Product Color Run information sheets or Contact Usfor assistance.
    Due to the natural variance of raw materials used in the production of interlocking concrete pavers, minor shade variations may occur from sample to the product and in photography, monitor display and printing processes.
    Nothing compares to the elegance of pavers in today’s residential and commercial architecture.  For pool decks, patios, and walkways, they are simply The Finishing Statement.  Whether your structural design features brick, stucco, wood, or pre-cast concrete, Max Pro Flooring offers a color and style of paver to complement and enhance its appearance.  With our consistent quality, beautiful color blends, and reliable service, you can be assured a successful paver project.

     We at Brick and Stone Sealing Specialists are dedicated to informing the customer of everything there is to know about their pavers. In this way we are not only separating ourselves from other companies that dont divulge "industry secrets" we are assisting our customers in the maintanence of their surface for your benefit. It has taken many years in the industry to accumulate this knowledge and we compile it here and pass it to you freely.

    Solid Gray Cement Based Colors


    Blended Gray Cement Based Colors


    Solid White Cement Based


    Blended White Cement Based


    Premium Solid Colors


    Premium Blend Colors






       


       Perhaps the most cumulative and in depth source for paver information comes from paversearch. Here you can find out what type of paver or concrete surface you have and information ranging from cleaning specifics to installation instructions. This is an excellent resource for any curious or do it yourself home owner.
           Another important resource is our product page Seal'NLock. Here you can learn all about the advantages of Seal'NLock as well as view a number of their completed pictures. There is also specific information about the chemical compounds and their use, EPA ratings, and maintenance.
           Several times on this site we mention efflorescence and many people have asked to know more. The most comprehensive and succinct article that we have found is hosted by a chemical stain removing company named Aldon. Though we don't use Aldon products, we use an organic based efflo remover manufactured by Seal'NLock, they have created an excellent description of what it is, where it comes from, and how to remove it.
           Rust is also a common stain found of pavers. Essortment.com hosts a very well compiled description of where rust can come from in regards to concrete and what to do about it.
           It is very difficult to find unbiased information on algae that focuses on its origins and growth habits in relation to concrete. Algae comes in many different forms and from many different places. Most commonly found on porous concrete is a green or black fungal algae. This type of algae can be carried to the surface by many sources but most commonly by water that has overflowed from plant beds or other fungal inhabiting places including flower pots, grass, gutters and other drainage. The algae grows because the conditions in the weather, especially in Florida, and on the surface are favorable, meaning consistent exposure times to sun and moisture. Removal of algae is often quite simple, it can be killed quite easily by chemicals ranging from vinegar to the most effective, chlorine. It is important to note that after spraying chlorine or any other algaecide onto any surface the algae itself is not removed. Though the color of the algae may be bleached out and become nearly invisible the dead remains of the fungus persist until it has been properly removed either by wiping or pressure spraying off. By skipping this process the surface will see a return of algae much quicker and if paint or sealant is applied it will not adhere properly.
           Below is an article that I have personally written informing people of the advantages of Seal'NLock over traditional Solvent based products. I have submitted it to goarticles.com and have posted it here for convenience.
         
    SEALER


     I have been sealing pavers, concrete, and other stone in Central Florida for over 5 years using solvent (oil) based products. I was initially skeptical when I became aware of an innovative new water-based product on the market that claimed to possess the advantages of both water and solvent based sealants and none of the disadvantages. Though it sounded too good to be true I took a chance and decided to give it a try. It is now my belief that Sealnlock is undoubtedly the most revolutionary product to ever hit the sealing market.
           Solvent based sealers require a completely dry surface before application to ensure full penetration of the pavers. This is because oil and water do not mix. Sealnlock is a water based product that is mixed with water prior to application. With water as the base, it allows the entire surface to be damp when the sealant is applied; this permits the entire job to be completed in only one day. The benefits don’t end there. Water based also means that the sealant is flooded over the surface, deeply penetrating the entire paver and all sand in the joints as it dries. Sealnlock also lasts longer than oil based products because of its revolutionary polyurethane mix which guarantees that water will bead on the surface for 2 years after application. Personally, I’ve done many solvent based jobs where I have returned after as little as 3 months to see that water gets soaked into the paver, resulting in color change, a sure sign the sealant has already started to degrade.
           Solvent based products have also been considered superior due to their resistance to clouding. Clouding is when the bond between the sealant and the paver is weakened and the sealant turns into a filmy white coat over the paver. Here in Florida there is another factor besides sealant that can lead to clouding. The intense Florida sun heats up sealed surfaces and the perhaps more intense Florida humidity penetrates the heated, tacky sealant, causing it to turn cloudy because of its oil based nature. Sealnlock’s revolutionary formula guarantees no clouding, ever!
           Another misnomer of solvent based superiority is the opinion that it helps to prevent against the appearance of efflorescence, or natural salts such as calcium, rust, mold, mildew, and algae. These surface destroying elements often come from underneath the surface where the paver, bedding, and ground beneath often harbor them. Because of the subpar protected joints these elements can come through the joint sand and leak over the surface ruining the sealant and the surface. Sealnlock penetrates all pavers and joints completely; virtually eliminating the appearance of paver destroying elements.
           Solvent based products also have a very high VOC (volatile organic compounds) rating, reaching as high as 600 grams per liter. This is 3 times the EPA approved level. After working with this highly toxic product for years I am especially excited to announce that Sealnlock has a VOC rating of only 50 grams per liter, that’s 8% of the toxicity of solvent base. When solvent based sealers are applied to a surface they initially penetrate the surface and essentially coat the pavers in a thin layer of plastic. As the product wears away this plastic flakes off into tiny little pieces that runoff into storm drains and pollute our lakes and rivers. Seal'NLock not only adheres to every surface better and lasts longer; it will also more readily dissolve into water making it far less harmful. You and your family can feel safe knowing that you’re not subjecting yourselves to breathing in toxic substances or contributing to pollution of the water supply.
           Sealnlock is an amazing product that has already taken the sealing industry’s top marks for its superior longer-lasting paver and joint penetration, guaranteed no clouding, better protection against the appearance of efflorescence, rust, mold, mildew, and algae, and the lowest VOC rating available. Solvent based products may provide an immediate beautiful look to your surface but the long term benefits of Sealnlock are undeniable.
    http://maxproflooring.com/max-pro-flooring-pavers/