A newly installed hardscape looks visually appealing while improving the functionality of the property. Hardscaping might include many materials such as stone, brick, concrete, wood, and more. It can include many features like patios, walkways, and retaining walls. With proper cleaning and maintenance, the installed hardscape can be enjoyed for many years. Let us explore the cleaning and maintenance practices which can help extend the appeal and lifespan of hardscaping.
Measures to Employ for Hardscape Cleaning
Concrete: For cleaning the concrete surfaces, pressure washing is one of the best methods. It is essential to pre-clean the area with a broom or brush before pressure washing. For stubborn stains on the surfaces, concrete cleaners can be used as per the instruction of manufacturers.
Pavers: Pavers can be cleaned with pressure washers.Visible weeds can be removed by manually pulling or using weed killer. Chemical cleaners can be used mainly for removing weeds, moss and mildew. A paver cleaner can be used to treat stains as recommended by the manufacturer.
Stone and Brick: For cleaning natural stones and bricks, a soft brush is recommended to remove dirt and dust. The surfaces can be cleaned with mild soap and water solution and rinsed with a garden hose.
Measures for Maintenance of Hardscape
1. Joint Re-sanding: In paver systems, the joint sand can erode overtime. Therefore, joint re-sanding is necessary. Pressure washing technique helps to clear failing joint sand and debris. Once the area is dry, the joints are usually filled with high-performance polymeric sand. The polymeric sand helps in preventing weed growth and protects the efficiency of paver systems.
2. Sealing: Sealing the hardscape provides protection from environmental damage and stains. Sealing can be applied with different finishes.
Natural looking sealing helps to maintain the appeal of stones without affecting their natural colour. The transparency can be increased with clear look sealants. With sealants that provide wet-look, glossy finish can be provided to the stones,to improve the vibrance.
3. Repairs: Due to factors such as wear and tear, heavy traffic and water stagnation, hardscapes might shift or sink. Any shifts can be corrected with appropriate measures. The broken parts can be replaced and the sunken pavers can be levelled to restore the hardscape.
Time to Schedule Hardscape Maintenance
It is essential to schedule hardscape maintenance once within 6 months or 1 year of installation. If maintenance is not done during the first year, it has to be scheduled within 2 to 3 years of installation. The next hardscape maintenance can be scheduled after four years of installation.
Closing Remarks
Proper maintenance of hardscape helps to maintain the appeal and protect your investment. Sealing and cleaning helps to protect the surfaces from losing lustre and staining. Proactive hardscape cleaning and maintenance practices also help to make the outdoor spaces more convenient.
At Lawn Pro of the Carolinas, as reliable hardscape contractors, we offer hardscaping services for both front and backyards. Our certified professionals deliver customized solutions to match your expectations. Contact us to know more about our services.
