Pavers
Material Types
Belgard Pavers offer a range of styles, textures, colors, and patterns. Misc materials roadbase, sand, polymeric sand
Installation
BASE
Pavers are installed on a compacted granular aggregate (roadbase) which should be between 4 and 6 inches deep. The depth of the base layer is influenced by the soil type and application. The base layer should be leveled and compacted firmly, and will safeguard against the pavers shifting or settling.
BEDDING SAND
Once the base is in place, a layer of sand is added and leveled or screeded. Bedding sand plays a critical role in ensuring proper interlock between the pavers and allowing for a smooth surface. Bedding sand should be at least 1-inch deep and spread evenly across the base material.
POLYMERIC SAND
Pavers are laid on top of the leveled sand. Polymeric sand is then swept into the joints between the pavers, and a compactor should be used to ensure the sand is evenly distributed into the joints. By compacting, you obtain joints that are nearly 20% stronger. Polymeric sand helps to further lock the pavers in place and plays a critical role in keeping debris and weeds out of the joints. Polymeric sand is specially formulated for the filling of narrow or wide joints when installing pavers, slabs, or natural stones. Unlike conventional sand, it stays in place and remains stable. It softens when wet and firms up when dry to better resist soil movements.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Clean your pavers each Spring with a coarse-bristle “stable” broom and a paver cleaner to keep them looking like new.
Some weeds, if left unaddressed, can shift pavers apart over time. Be sure to periodically apply a granular weed preventative between joints as a part of your paver maintenance routine.
Be careful when cleaning your Belgard pavers with power washers as the force of the spray can expose the aggregate under the paver’s surface.
Wait at least 90 days to seal your pavers so you can remove any efflorescence that might appear after installation.
CLEANING
Before applying any paver cleaning solution to your hardscape, test a small inconspicuous area first to be sure you get the desired results.
Be sure to read and follow the directions printed on container labels for cleaning solution use, application, precautions and first aid. Always rinse the solution off thoroughly after use.
In the event of an oil spill, act to remove it promptly with granular oil absorbent. Spills should be soaked up, not rubbed. Rubbing will drive the stain deeper into the concrete.
PROTECTING
De-icing substances, when used in proper amounts, should not damage pavers; however, they may accelerate surface wear on some paver styles. Use them in moderation.
Sealers should not be applied more than once in three years, to a maximum of two applications. Too many applications will create a film on the surface, which may discolor in sunlight.
The joints between paving stones are the most vulnerable areas of any installation. Keep these joints topped off with jointing sand to prevent the sand-bedding layer below from deteriorating, causing the pavers to shift.
