A few simple habits are enough to preserve their colour and appearance for years. Here are the essentials — and you can download Techo-Bloc’s complete care guide below.
General maintenance
How do I remove snow from my Techo-Bloc pavers?
Your pavers can be shovelled and scraped just like a concrete or asphalt surface. If you hire a contractor for snow removal, ask for protective (Teflon) blades to avoid scratching the surface. Common de-icing salts (sodium or calcium chloride) won’t damage Techo-Bloc products — with the exception of the Stonedge collection, where salt isn’t recommended.
Should I apply a sealant?
Sealing is optional. It enhances the colour and makes upkeep easier, a bit like waxing a car, but the durability of your products doesn’t depend on it: it’s mainly an aesthetic choice.
A whitish residue appeared on my pavers. Is that normal?
Yes. This whitish haze is called efflorescence: a normal, common phenomenon on all cement-based products. It usually clears up on its own, often within a few months, sometimes over a year or two. If needed, specialized cleaners (Alliance Gator, Flexlock) speed up the process.
What should I avoid using?
Avoid metal brushes and cleaners based on strong acids (sulfuric or muriatic acid), which can damage the surface.
Should I have my pavers cleaned by a professional?
Several companies specialize in cleaning pavers and walls. We can refer you to one suited to your project.
Cleaning basics
How often should I clean?
As needed, based on what you observe. In the fall, sweep leaves regularly to prevent organic staining. The rest of the year, a quick rinse with the hose is often enough to keep the surface clean.
Which products should I use?
Most stains come out with cleaners made for concrete or properly diluted household products. The right product depends on the stain — the Techo-Bloc care guide covers each case.
How do I remove moss from the joints?
The joints are the most vulnerable areas, especially in the first year. For moss, a mix of water and chlorine bleach (about 5 to 1), scrubbed lightly with a nylon brush and rinsed well, works nicely.
Can I use a pressure washer?
With caution. Used incorrectly, a pressure washer can cause permanent damage to the surface and void your warranty. Check the care guide before using one.
Removing stains
Leaf and organic debris stains
Concrete has low porosity but can absorb pigments from leaves, petals and buds. Sweep regularly in the fall: stains left under the snow all winter are tougher to remove. The exact method varies by product — refer to the guide.
Food, drink, oil and grease stains
Clean up quickly and rinse with warm water. Dish soap or liquid detergent removes most food and drink stains. For oil and grease, use a degreaser that’s safe for pigmented concrete.
Rust stains
Rust stains (from steel, fertilizer or iron-rich water) can be removed with a professional rust remover such as Gator Clean. After fertilizing your lawn and beds, sweep or blow off the surface: some fertilizers contain iron that can stain.
Need the right products or a hand?
We stock Alliance Gator and Flexlock cleaners and sealants, and our experts can recommend the right product. For a deep clean or a new installation, we can also refer you to a qualified landscaper.
For specific cases and exact dilutions, always refer to Techo-Bloc’s official care guide and the instructions specific to each product.