A few simple habits are enough to preserve their colour and appearance for years. Here are the essentials \u2014 and you can download Techo-Bloc’s complete care guide below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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 \u2014 with the exception of the Stonedge collection, where salt isn’t recommended.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n 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. We carry a range of sealants in store \u2014 come see us and we’ll recommend the right one for your project.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n 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 you’d like to speed up the process, specialized cleaners are available in store.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n Avoid metal brushes and cleaners based on strong acids (sulfuric or muriatic acid), which can damage the surface.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n Several companies specialize in cleaning pavers and walls. We can refer you to one suited to your project.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n Most stains come out with cleaners made for concrete or properly diluted household products. The right product depends on the stain \u2014 the Techo-Bloc care guide covers each case. We carry a full line of cleaners in store for all types of surfaces and stains, and our team can help you pick the right one.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n 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 \u2014 refer to the guide. We also carry specialized cleaners in store for organic stains.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n 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. We stock a variety of degreasers and stain removers in store \u2014 ask our team for the right product for your situation.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n Rust stains (from steel, fertilizer or iron-rich water) can be removed with a professional rust remover. After fertilizing your lawn and beds, sweep or blow off the surface: some fertilizers contain iron that can stain. We carry rust removers and all sorts of specialized cleaners in store.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n We stock a full range of cleaners and sealants from Alliance Gator and Flexlock \u2014 for efflorescence, organic stains, rust, oil and more. Our experts can recommend the right product for your situation. For a deep clean or a new installation, we can also refer you to a qualified landscaper.<\/p>\n\n\n\nShould I apply a sealant?<\/summary>\n
A whitish residue appeared on my pavers. Is that normal?<\/summary>\n
What should I avoid using?<\/summary>\n
Should I have my pavers cleaned by a professional?<\/summary>\n
Cleaning basics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How often should I clean?<\/summary>\n
Which products should I use?<\/summary>\n
How do I remove moss from the joints?<\/summary>\n
Can I use a pressure washer?<\/summary>\n
Removing stains<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Leaf and organic debris stains<\/summary>\n
Food, drink, oil and grease stains<\/summary>\n
Rust stains<\/summary>\n
Need the right products or a hand?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n