G.B. Duarte Construction

Q. What are “interlocking paving stones” (pavers)?
A. “Interlocking” pavers is a misleading term. The term “interlock” comes from the friction of joint sand between pavers. This interlock creates true pavement superiority in several ways. It creates “rotational interlock” (resistance to tipping), “horizontal interlock” (resistance to spreading), and “vertical interlock” (resistance to sinking). The pavers are set in bedding sand over a compacted aggregate base. Then sand is swept over the pavers and compacted into the joints, filling them and creating “interlock” and lasting stability.

Q. How long do I have to wait before I can walk or drive on my new pavers?
A. You don’t have to wait at all! There is no cure time with pavers so you can walk on them immediately, unlike concrete or asphalt.

Q. Are pavers slippery?
A. No! In fact, pavers exceed the slip and skid resistance standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Some sealers can reduce the effect when wet but there are sealers available that will have no effect on your pavers. You can be confident you are getting a safe, non-slip surface.

Q. What happens if I need to do a repair job below the paving? Will this leave an ugly patch mark?
A. No, this is one of the great benefits to installing paving stones. Individual stones can be removed, replaced or flipped to accommodate repairs or design changes, unlike concrete or asphalt.

Q. Do the pavers need to be sealed?
A. Sealing your paving stone project is highly recommended. Sealing protects the pavers from oil and stains, helps to stabilize the joint sand from heavy rain or cleanings, prevents vegetation growth and intensifies color characteristics.

Q. Will weeds or grass grow between the pavers?
A. If installed properly, no weeds or grass should grow up “through” the pavers. There may be times when airborne seeds can find their way onto the top of the joints and start growing in any organic material that has built up. These can often be easily pulled out or killed with weed spray. Sealing your pavers greatly reduces the likelihood of any vegetation growth.

Q. What is that white stuff on my pavers?
A. Occasionally, some pavers may arrive with a whitish residue on them. This is referred to as efflorescence. Efflorescence is a natural by-product from the production process and can be found in any concrete product. Calcium oxide inside the paver reacts with water and forms calcium hydroxide. This seeps to the surface, reacts with the carbon dioxide in the air to form calcium carbonate, a whitish residue. This will wear off over time or can be removed with a restorative cleanser.

Q. Do you work on weekends?
A. Yes, we do work on Saturdays, if necessary.