Efflorescence – Do not be alarmed
A white deposit known as efflorence may sometimes appear on any concrete or masonry product. It does not affect structural integrity and will dissipate over time. Efflorence is not indicative of a flawed product. Efflorence is a temporary condition where salts in the soil migrate via evaporation to the surface of the paver. This is a transitory phenomenon as the pavers acclimatise to their new environment. Efflorescence may be temporarily removed by stiff brushing.
Physical Characteristics
Pavers with chamfered top edges minimise chipping and spalling and facilitates the removal of water from the surface of the pavers.
Faces without chamfers may be prone to chipping. Some pavers are made with space nibs on the sides of the unit, which automatically provide the minimum joint width when installed.
Cutting
Prior to cutting please fully wet the product. This will reduce the chance of any residue staining the product. It is also important to ensure all residue is washed from the cut product prior to laying.
Staining
Occasionally various types of stains, blemishes or efflorescence may become visible on the paver surface. These are typically cased by tannins, humus and salts from the surrounding soil/environment. To protect your paving it is recommended your pavers be sealed.
Tyre Marking
Tyre marks may appear on the pavement surface. This may occur due to the tyre compounds, vehicle weight and action of the power steering.
Garden Mulches
Garden Mulches contain tannins that can leach onto paving. Avoid dumping mulch directly onto paved areas and minimise water run off from the mulch onto the pavers.
High Pressure Water Cleaning
The use of high pressure water cleaning is not recommended unless performed by a professional as it may damage the paver surface.
Sealing
To protect your pavement and to allow easy cleaning it is recommended that your paving be sealed. In particular paving by the coast or in harsh environments. The application of a sealer will protect your investment and maintain the pavement’s appearance.
Salt Water Pools
Where paving is to be used around a pool it is recommended that the pavers along the edge are protected with the appropriate sealer.
Chipping and Breakage
Some minor chipping and breakage may occur during the delivery and installation of the product. It is recommended that these products are used for cuts. This should not exceed 5% of the completed project.
Dimensions
Product dimensions quoted are nominal and subject to variation due to the product colour and batch. Numbers per square metre quoted are nominal and subject to variance due to installation.
Installation
It is recommended that there is careful inspection of all pavers delivered and appropriate supervision during installation to ensure satisfactory results. Every effort is made to provide products consistent with examples. Variation in colour and surface texture will occur naturally within and between batches. For best results it is important to blend products from various packs as you lay. It is recommended to maintain a 2-3mm joint between pavers for clean jointing sand and to be swept in to provide effective lock up. Jointing sand must be clean, sharp and well graded with no soluble salt or clay.
Acknowledgements: Brikmakers