Masonry Magazine October 2011 Page. 26
HARDSCAPING CASE STUDY
Questions Contractors Should Ask
Before buying pavers, landscaping and hardscaping contractors should ask these questions to manufacturers:
* Are your pavers documented to meet the ASTM C936 / C936M - 09 standard?
* What exactly does your warranty cover?
* What isn't covered by your warranty?
* What information do I need to pass along to my customers about your pavers?
Questions Homeowners Should Ask
The end consumers should be aware of the type of pavers they're buying, how the pavers are affected by deicing salts and natural elements, and maintenance requirements. Homeowners and business owners should ask their contractors:
* What types of deicing salts are recommended to use on the pavers?
* What maintenance needs to be performed on the pavers, and how often?
* How do I maintain the look and appearance of my pavers?
The ICPI Technical Committee recommends these guidelines to limit the exposure to deicing:
* Mix the salt with sand, which is visible and the traction can be felt underfoot
* Follow the recommended application and don't over- apply the salt
* Use deicing salt for melting ice, not for snow removal
* Remove the ice once it's loose to avoid salt buildup
* Wash off the pavers in the spring, since the salt can continue to cause degradation even after the ice or snow has melted.
Routine maintenance can minimize the effects of deicing salts. As Moreland points out, "The bottom line is that every exterior surface needs some maintenance. Whether you live in the North and use deicing salts, the extremities of acid rain, pollution and vehicular traffic cause wear and tear on exterior surfaces."
To maximize the life-cycle benefits of an interlocking concrete paver system, Moreland recommends using sealers. In addition to creating certain preferred looks, sealers may provide some protection against deicing salts, acid rain and lawn chemicals.
"Quality pavers are designed and manufactured to look attractive and perform for years and even decades, but pro- fessionals and homeowners can help extend the life of their hardscapes by cleaning and then sealing them regularly." Moreland says.
With proper salting applications and routine maintenance, pavers will look attractive, resist degradation and provide a durable surface for decades. IMAS to better melting abilities or less frequent appli- cations, excessive salting can harm the pavers. If salt ends up in piles or clumps, then it has been applied too heavily.
According to the ICPI, "The key to success- fully using deicing materials is to use only as much [salt] as is needed to do the job. This will maximize paver benefits, while minimizing any damage to the concrete pavers and surrounding environment."