If you are interested in building a natural stone patio or installing a new pavement in your home, you should learn how to maintain pavers. Natural pavers are attractive, and they will enhance the value of your property. However, if you do not give the paved surface proper care, you will notice fast deterioration. Remember, the degradation of the pavers will result in loss of aesthetic appeal and significant expenses in repairs. If you are not familiar with stone care, consider these simple guidelines for ideal results.

Keep the Surface Clean

Sweeping the paved surfaces is an essential process in the preservation of the natural stone. This is particularly true if you have light-coloured stones. Typically, the stone surface will become stained if the leaves on the ground become wet. Therefore, you should use your broom to remove all debris, especially before the rain. You will not be able to eliminate dust and grime by sweeping. Therefore, you should wash the surface with water and a suitable solution. Typically, simple washing of the pavement will remove the layer of dirt. However, if you notice moss or similar growths on the paving, you can use a pressure washer. 

Protect Porous Stones

Some natural stones are highly porous. They will absorb the liquids spilt on the pavement. Therefore, if your patio or other surface has this property, it will be more vulnerable to staining. Also, if the stones absorb too much water, they might weaken with time, leading to premature failure. So, you should think about sealing your stone surfaces for protection. A layer of a sealant coat will minimise the penetration of moisture and stains. Also, once the material is applied, you will find that cleaning the pavers will be easier. You should note that sealing is not necessary for all pavers. Therefore, you should discuss the necessity of this process for your home with your experienced paving contractor.

Remove Old Pavers

You should take time to inspect your pavers for damage. Unlike poured concrete or asphalt, damaged natural stone surfaces are not difficult to repair. You will only need to identify the cracked, stained or degraded paver and remove it. When removing the unit, you should be careful not to disturb the surrounding stones. Otherwise, you will need to perform more repairs. After lifting out the old paver, you should acquire the same type of stone from your paving supplier. Install as recommended for ideal aesthetic appeal and stability of the surface. 

For more information, contact a local paving contractor.