Installing pavers is a great way to add a unique touch to your outdoor space. But, it's important to understand the steps involved in the installation process in order to ensure that your pavers last for years to come. After all of the pavers have been placed, it's important to use a mechanical plate compactor to help place the pavers in the sand layer. This step involves sweeping sand over the surface that fills the joints and locks the pavers in place.
It is essential to use fine-grained sand instead of coarse-grained sand. Once the pavers have been installed, it's important to sweep polymer sand between each of the pavers to level them with the top of the unit. This will help ensure that your pavers are properly secured and will last for years. After installation, most experts recommend waiting at least 24 to 48 hours before sealing new pavers.
This gives the pavers time to settle and ensures that they are completely dry before sealing them. It is not recommended to compact paving stones without a vibrating compactor as described above, since the same impact cannot be achieved in the same efficient and effective way. However, in some cases you may not have access to a compactor or you may need to enter tight spaces to complete the compaction of the pavers and the consolidation of the bonding material. In these cases, a rubber mallet that does not leave marks on the surface of the paving stones can be used to compact them.
You can use a small pad to place it on the pavers and hit the surface of the pad to allow for an even surface level. Alternatively, you can also use a manual manipulator with a protective layer attached with adhesive tape or place a pad on top of the pavers to complete this step. Don't be fooled by brick paver installers who offer sealing services immediately after installation at a discounted price. Understanding when to seal pavers after installation is vital to keeping your investment in good shape. This will also benefit you, as you won't have to pay for costly repairs or replacements down the line.
