Updating your block paving involves a series of cleaning, repair, and sealing steps to restore its appearance and integrity.
Giving your block paved area a thorough update can significantly improve its curb appeal and longevity. The process generally follows a sequence of actions aimed at cleaning, repairing, and protecting the surface.
Steps to Refresh Your Block Paving
Based on best practices for maintaining paved surfaces, updating your block paving typically involves the following stages:
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Initial Clearing & Cleaning:
- Remove surface detritus and litter: Begin by sweeping away leaves, dirt, and any other debris accumulated on the surface.
- Remove oil stain and/or replace stained blocks: Address any stubborn stains like oil or grease. Specialized cleaners can often lift stains, but for deep or widespread staining, replacing the individual affected blocks might be necessary for a clean finish.
- Thoroughly clean all blocks: Once loose debris and specific stains are dealt with, give the entire paved area a deep clean. This can involve using a stiff brush, a power washer (used carefully to avoid disturbing jointing sand), and appropriate cleaning solutions to remove grime, algae, and moss.
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Addressing Structural Issues:
- Remedial works to areas of settlement and broken blocks: Inspect the paving for areas where blocks have sunk (settlement) or cracked/broken. Lift the affected blocks, prepare the sub-base appropriately, and relay them or replace broken ones to create an even surface.
- Replacement of crumbled concrete fillets around edges: Check the concrete edge restraints that hold the blocks in place. If these have deteriorated, they need to be repaired or replaced to prevent edge creep and block movement.
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Re-Jointing and Sealing:
- Re-sanding of joints: After cleaning and repairs are complete and the area is dry, brush kiln-dried sand into the joints between the blocks. This sand locks the blocks together, providing structural stability. Ensure joints are fully filled.
- Application of quality sealant: Applying a sealant is the final step. A quality sealant protects the blocks and jointing sand from stains, inhibits weed and algae growth, and can enhance the colour of the paving. Choose a sealant appropriate for your block type and desired finish (e.g., invisible, colour-enhancing).
Following these steps meticulously will help transform tired-looking block paving back into a clean, stable, and attractive surface.
