A Complete Guide to Constructing an Interlocked Driveway in Toronto

From start to finish, constructing an interlocking driveway involves many different steps. Here is a complete guide to let you know what is involved with the process and why certain steps are taken along the way. You’ll also find out why an interlocked driveway provides value for the money and why it should be your first choice when looking at all other available options.

The Advantages of Interlocking Stones in Toronto

Interlocking stones Toronto have a small size and are available in a wide variety of shapes and colours. They provide a certain type of warmth that cannot be found with conventional asphalt and concrete. They complement any type of architectural style of home perfectly and can be easily installed in different patterns including intricate designs, straight lines and curves. They add a new vitality to a property that simply cannot be ignored.

 

Interlocking stones Toronto are made from a low-absorption, high-strength concrete and are resistant to the common freeze-thaw cycles that we experience here in Canada. They are also extremely resistant to chemicals that are commonly used for de-icing. They cannot be damaged by point loads, moisture or high temperatures and provide a frictional resistance that is high. There is no curing necessary after they have been installed and if any of the interlocking stones need to be removed, they can be either reused or recycled.

 

Interlocking driveway pavers can withstand heavy loads and provide long-term performance. They are used to make a low-maintenance, long life driveway and are suitable to be used for pathways, pool patio areas, barbecue patios and much more.

What Are Natural Stone Pavers Made of?

The concrete pavers used for natural stone Toronto driveways are made of fine and coarse aggregate, Portland cement and water. This mixture is placed in molds and exposed to extreme pressure and vibration. Admixtures are also commonly added to provide increased density and strength and to help decrease the absorption of water. They are made using spacer bars to ensure that the joints are properly spaced and uniform and the edges are cut away with a slope to help prevent chipping.

 

Pavers must be manufactured according to certain specifications for strength, rate of absorption, resistance to freeze-thaw cycles and rate of breakage. You can rest assured that the natural stone pavers that have been installed for you meet these strict standards and will offer years of performance value.

 

Interlocking Stones and Jointing Sand

High quality, finer graded sand is used to fill in the joints between the natural stone Toronto pavers. This is what provides the interlocking component and allows heavy loads to be transmitted to the surrounding blocks. The loads are distributed in a way that is similar to a layer of asphalt concrete.

 

There is an alternative that can be used that consists of a binder mixed with the graded sand. This has been formulated for wide or narrow joints between the interlocking stones Toronto. This type of sand is also resistant to weed growth and infestations of insects. As well, it is resistant to human erosions caused by wind, frost, rain etc. It can stabilize sloped and horizontal interlocking driveway Toronto projects since some paver movement is allowed without disturbing the sand. When this sort of sand is applied it is put down dry and then once it is moistened it starts to harden.

 

Interlocked Driveways and Bedding Sand

Bedding sand is placed down before the interlock pavers are set for a specific reason. This bedding sand is able to resist tires and load pressures and similar compressive forces. A special manufactured sand is commonly used that has been subjected to testing. Crusher screenings are often used as well as long as they meet the testing requirements. One or the other must be put in place before the stones can be put down to ensure the longevity of the life of the driveway.

 

Edging Restraints for Interlocking

The edging restraints are a vital part of any interlocked project since they are the thing that holds the pavers together tightly. This allows for consistency throughout the driveway, walkway or patio and they are the force that holds everything together as one complete unit. If the edging restraints aren’t put down, the pavers would naturally start to spread apart due to settling and forces from heavy loads.

 

There are a variety of structures available that can be used as edging restraints. There may already be an existing structure in place that can be used as an edge such as the side of the house when a patio is being put into place. There are also beautiful curbs available in natural stone, plastic, aluminum and concrete. 

 

If there is any chance of any bedding sand being lost, a geotextile is often placed along the side of the interlocking that reaches up along the edges of the restraint. This does not alter the aesthetic appeal of the restraint in any way.

 

Interlocking Sealer

An interlocking sealer may or may not be recommended by the interlocking company Toronto that is placing your stones. This sealer is used to enhance the durability of the paver surface and helps to keep the sand in place. A sealer is commonly used on airport interlocked pavements but it is not usually required for residential use. 

 

It’s best to discuss the need for a sealer with the Toronto interlocking company you will be using for the install. In some cases it may be recommended if a person is driving a vehicle or has people visiting with vehicles that are known to lose fuel or oil.

 

If you are considering getting an interlocked driveway this summer, speak to the experts at EGE Interlocking first. We provide free quotes and our expert installers are always available to answer any questions that you may have. Visit our website now to fill in the contact form and we will get back to you shortly.

A Natural Stone Patio versus a Wooden Deck – Which One Is the Best Choice for You?

When it’s time to renovate your backyard you may be faced with a difficult decision. Would it be best to get a natural stone patio put in or should you build a wooden deck? They both have pros and cons so it’s important to take a look at all of the factors before going ahead and making a final decision. After all, it’s not just the short-term costs or the overall look of the new renovation that should be taken into account. You’ll need to factor in the time and costs for maintenance on a long-term basis.

Not Easy to Replace
Take your time when you’re looking at your options since both a natural stone patio and a wooden deck won’t be easy to replace down the line should you ever happen to change your mind. These are both renovation projects that should be considered to be permanent. When it’s time to build a functional and beautiful space that you can enjoy outside, look at both the pros and the cons of each one carefully.

Here is a list of the major factors you should take into consideration:

• Logistics
• Aesthetics
• Prices
• Maintenance
• Durability

Pros and Cons of a Natural Stone Patio
A natural stone patio is an area that has been paved using natural stones and in most cases it is set directly on the ground. A patio may also be raised up from the ground but this isn’t commonly seen since the stones are very heavy. The patio may be detached or attached to the home.

You’ll have a wide range of stones to choose from in different colours and patterns. Natural stone patios can be made of slabs, limestone, brownstone, bluestone, flagstone or other interlock pavers. You can choose natural pavers that either match the colour of your home or ones that provide a brilliant contrast to it. Your choices are virtually unlimited when it comes time to decide on a pattern for the patio and the stones you will be using.

Pricing for Patios
In general, installing a patio is often cheaper than installing a wooden deck. Of course, this will vary from one project to the next. One thing that will influence the price is how level the ground is where the patio will be placed. If there is excavation work that needs to be done to level the area, this will add to the cost. Other determining factors include the type of stone you choose, the intricacy of the design and how much area you want your natural stone patio to cover.

Pool Surroundings

A natural stone patio is often the best choice for pool surroundings since the stones are naturally water resistant. A number of different maintenance issues arise when you use wood around a patio deck. As well, wood can get quite slippery when used for pool surroundings, which creates a safety issue. When it comes to choosing between a wooden deck and natural stone pool surroundings, the cheaper and safer option is to use interlocking pavers.

Maintenance of Stone Patios
Stone patios are easier to maintain than wooden decks since they just need to be cleaned regularly. Stone dust or sand may also need to be topped up from time to time to fill in the gaps appearing between the stones.

Pros and Cons of a Wooden Deck
A wooden deck is a platform that is an extension outwards from the home. It can be raised to various heights to create space between the deck and the ground. Since they are made of wood, there are many different options and designs available for decks. They may be made of pressure-treated, cedar, redwood or other types of wood.

PVC and composite materials can also be used to create decks but these materials are very costly. In most cases you’ll have to pay at least three times more than what you’d have to pay to install an interlocking natural stone patio.

Pricing for Wooden Decks
While you won’t have to deal with any type of excavation work if you are getting a raised wooden deck, you’ll still have to pay to get the deck off the ground. Determining factors that will affect the overall cost of wooden decks include the type of wood you choose, the size of the deck, the height off the ground and the design of the deck.

Wooden Pool Surroundings
While wooden pool surroundings can look amazing, be sure to take a look at the maintenance involved with them. The wood will need to be treated regularly and it may not be worth the time and effort involved. Natural stone pavers are an excellent choice for pool surroundings and they will pass the test of time.

Maintenance of Wooden Decks
A wooden deck will require a lot more effort in terms of maintenance to make sure that it lasts for a number of years. It will need to be washed and then stained regularly and broken boards will occasionally need to be replaced.

Natural Stone in Toronto

Once you have decided whether you want to create a natural stone patio or a wooden deck, it’s time to get an estimate. If you opt for natural stones for your patio, you’ll need to work with a trusted company that can bring your backyard renovation vision into a reality. Since this is a long-term project that you want to last for many years to come, it’s important to choose the best company to get the job done.

We are a natural stone Toronto company that specializes in interlock jobs of all types. We can help you achieve your dream of a natural stone patio that you can use for entertaining and for your family to enjoy. When you are looking for a reliable interlocking company in the GTA, think of us first. You can reach us through our website at www.egeinterlock.com and browse through the gallery of projects we have completed in the past.

Why an Interlock Driveway Outperforms an Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt driveways have always been a popular choice for residential driveways but are they the best choice? While it will cost less for the initial instalment of asphalt, an interlock driveway outperforms asphalt in the long run. Interlock pavers provide longevity, durability and are extremely versatile to work with. With our 4 seasons that provide intense temperature differences, people living in Ontario need to choose their driveways carefully and take these climate fluctuations into account.

A driveway must be able to withstand the cold, harsh winters as well as the heat of the long summer days. It’s also important to consider icing and thawing to make sure that the driveway will not only last as long as possible but will look great throughout the years.

Interlock Stones versus Asphalt

Interlock stones offer a number of different benefits over basic black asphalt, which include the following:

• Easy to repair
• Different colours available
• Various patterns and designs are possible
• Increased property value
• Less repair and maintenance costs
• Increased durability
• Greater flexibility

Easy to Repair

It’s a lot easier to repair an interlock driveway than it is an asphalt one. The interlock stones can be replaced after removal with new ones when necessary. Sometimes you only have to replace one stone while at other times you may have to replace a few. When you compare this to asphalt, however, repairing one section of asphalt makes the driveway look different than it originally was. The new asphalt will stand out since it will be blacker in appearance and the repair will look patchy.

It will be difficult to get an asphalt driveway to look as good as it did when it was installed once it has become stained or cracked. The replaced interlock stones, on the other hand, don’t stand out from the others. The whole driveway can look as good as it did when it was first installed even after repairs have been made.

Make sure that the professional interlock driveway company provides you with extra stones once the job has been completed. This way, you’ll always have stones at hand when you need them and you’ll be sure that they are an exact match for your existing driveway.

Different Colours Available

Interlock pavers are available in a wide range of colours whereas black is your only choice when it comes to asphalt. You can choose the best colours to complement and accent the colour of your home and its distinguishing features. When you choose the right colour it will unify the front entrance with the existing housing structure. When you can create this unity, the house turns into a home.

You can also choose contrasting colours to create a more dramatic effect. The choice is yours when it comes to choosing the colour and you have the option of achieving a harmonious look or something more distinguishable that gives your home a lot of character.

Various Patterns and Designs Are Possible

Create the design and pattern you want using interlock stones. There are endless patterns and designs to choose from and you can see examples of them on our website. We have designed specialists at EGE Interlock that are available to give helpful suggestions when you need them. When you don’t know which pattern would look best, we can show you various options.

Interlock stones for driveways are also available in a number of different dimensions and textures to help show off the curb appeal of your home. Make the front entrance leading up to your home look luxurious with the right pattern, design and colour choices.

Increased Property Value

An interlock driveway can significantly increase the property value of your home. The stones provide a natural appeal that can’t be matched by asphalt. Consider interlock stones to be an investment that adds to the value of your home. At the same time, you can enjoy the beauty and the aesthetics of the interlocked area while you are living there.

Less Repair and Maintenance Costs

Save on repair and maintenance costs by choosing a Toronto interlock driveway. It’s easy to maintain a driveway that has been interlocked since there is almost no maintenance involved. Simply give it a pressure wash once in a while to clean it up. Asphalt, on the other hand, needs to be resealed about every 3 years to keep it looking its best. You do have the option of sealing your interlock driveway, but it is not necessary since it will continue to look great for many years without any sealing.

Increased Durability

Interlock stones last a lot longer when compared to asphalt. Many interlock companies are offering fantastic warranties on their pavers. They may cover factors such as salt resistance, which is very important in Ontario. Basically, you can expect your driveway to look a lot better over time and last longer when you choose to interlock your driveway.

Greater Flexibility

The stones manufactured for interlocked driveways are naturally flexible. During the freeze/thaw cycles we experience across Ontario, these interlock stones flex according to the ground’s movement. Asphalt, on the other hand, is not flexible and tends to crack and move along the ground. The pavers also have seams between them that offer even more flexibility so any cracking takes place in the joints where the sand is located and the pavers aren’t affected.

Toronto Interlock Driveway Company

At EGE Interlock we are a Toronto interlock driveway company that specializes in creating driveways that are appealing, long-lasting and valuable. Find out more about our commitment to customer satisfaction and our wide range of services by visiting our site now at https://www.egeinterlock.com/. We are the Toronto interlock specialists that you can count on when you need design and interlock services. We can help you get the look you want to make your home look the best it can be. Request a free quote on our website through the contact form and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.

Why You Should Be Using Interlock Stones for Your Driveway

If your driveway needs some tender loving care, consider using interlock stones to make it come alive again. There is nothing that can compare to interlocking stones in terms of providing curb appeal to your house. Interlocking pavers add elegance to the property, making your home look more organized. When you want to bring your home to the next level, interlocking is the way to go.

There are many reasons why you should choose interlock stones for your upcoming driveway renovation, which include the following:

• Concrete interlocking pavers are durable
• Able to withstand freezing and thawing
• Easy to install
• A wide variety of styles to choose from
• Eco-friendly design solutions
• Repairs are easy to make

Learn more about these benefits and discover why so many people are choosing to interlock their driveways more than using any other type of driveway application.

Concrete Interlock Pavers Are Durable

Interlock pavers that are made of high quality concrete or stone have an estimated lifespan of 40 years or more. During this time they require very little maintenance. They can withstand heavy loads and when installed correctly they usually won’t require any repairs in the future. Many companies provide extended warranties on these pavers since they know that they are made of high-quality materials that can withstand just about anything.

Able to Withstand Freezing and Thawing

Interlocking stones do not need to be installed on mortar and they do best when they are placed on a flexible base. This way, they are able to handle the regular freezing and thawing that takes place during the Canadian winters and springs. A flexible base protects the stones from cracking and shifting. Poured concrete, on the other hand, is more susceptible to developing cracks.

Easy to Install

Interlocking stones are easy to install by professionals. Highly-trained individuals can lay down these pavers very quickly once the driveway area has been prepped. You’ll be amazed to see how fast your driveway will be transformed once the crew arrives and the installation begins. It’s important to note, however, that installing interlocking stones is not a do-it-yourself project and should be left in the hands of the experts.

A Wide Variety of Styles to Choose From

Interlock stones are available in a wide range of styles and colours. Whether you are looking for a contemporary look or are drawn to something more traditional, you’ll find the perfect stone that will work for you. No matter what type you choose, you’ll end up with an elegant look for your driveway that can’t be compared to any other type of driveway material.

Eco-Friendly Design Solutions

You’ll be given the option of choosing natural stones such as travertine or limestone, which are made of renewable resources. These are fashionable stones that are reasonably priced and when you use them you’ll be making a contribution towards keeping our planet safe and secure.

Repairs Are Easy to Make

If a problem should ever arise, it’s easy to make a repair to the driveway. Any affected interlock stones can be individually extracted and replaced. You will be provided with extra stones when the installation job has been completed. If you were to have a problem with an asphalt or a whole cement slab, you would be dealing with a major issue. Choose interlock stones so that you can rest assured that your driveway will continue to look its best throughout the years with minimal repairs required.

Interlocking Driveway Toronto

Spring is on its way and it’s time to spruce up your driveway. If you are interested in getting an interlocking driveway Toronto, now is the time to phone us up to get a quote. We get a lot of requests during the springtime and if you want to get yours done as quickly as possible, now is the time to act. We get booked up pretty fast once the cold weather eases off and the warmer weather begins to set in.

Toronto Interlock Driveway

We are available to answer all of your questions about your Toronto interlock driveway. If you aren’t certain about what you want to do with your driveway in the spring, we can let you know the pros and cons of all of the different options. We believe that giving you all of the information available will help guide you towards making an informed decision. After all, this is a large project that you are undertaking and you will want to be certain about the choices you make.

If you plan on putting your house on the market when spring arrives, an interlocked driveway can be a major selling point. Getting your driveway updated with interlocked stones will add incredible curb appeal to your property. It will also help to highlight the best features of your home when you select a colour and design that matches the look of your house. An interlocked paver driveway is a great investment to make when you are thinking about putting your house up for sale in the near future.

Our Services

Here are some of the services that we offer to people that are interested in upgrading their driveways:

• Property supervision of the project
• A rough layout provided of the areas that will be interlocked
• Recommendations regarding the best materials for the construction
• Advice on other landscaping features that would enhance your property
• A complete plan that outlines how the project will be carried out
• A time estimate to complete the interlocking
• Maintenance tips to keep your driveway looking as good as new

You can call us when you are thinking about getting your driveway updated or need to have some repairs done on your driveway. We are experts in planning, designing and installing interlocked stones on your driveway and in other areas around your home.

Get in touch with us today to find out what we can do for you by visiting our website now at https://www.egeinterlock.com/. We are the Toronto interlock driveway specialists that you need to call first to make sure that the job is done right.

What to Consider When Buying Your Interlocking Pavers

When it’s time to choose interlocking pavers for a driveway, walkway, patio etc., there are many different things that you should consider. You’ll only have one chance to do it right since once the bricks are laid down, there will be no going back unless you are willing to incur a great cost. Here are some of the main factors you should be considering when it’s time to add interlocking pavers to the outside of your home.

 

Match the Interlocking Stones to Your Home

Take a close look at your home’s architectural style. This will help you decide on the right interlocking stones that you should be choosing. Look past the design and the colour of the bricks on your home and concentrate only on the style. Both the exterior of your home and the landscaping around it should remain consistent in terms of style. This gives unity to the overall design of your property and avoids having your landscape look disjointed.

 

If you have a modern style of home, for example, interlocking stones with a minimalist design look great. Interlocking pavers that are straight and lengthy that have a smooth texture would also fit in well. Look for contemporary paver stones that have a modern flair to them.

 

If your home is older with a traditional design, look for interlocking stones that would complement the style well. There are choices available that are brick-inspired that would go perfectly with colonial, traditional home designs.

Interlocking Bricks – Choosing the Right Colour

Once you have the style of interlocking bricks that would work well with your home it’s time to look at your colour choices. You have 2 choices when it comes to colour: you can either choose to keep the colour of the bricks uniform with the home or create a contrast. Modern homes especially often look better when there is a contrast between the interlocking bricks and the bricks on the home.

 

When you have chosen the style you like you’ll find that there is a wide range of colours with different shades to choose from. When you are having a hard time making up your mind you may want to get some opinions from others. They may make helpful suggestions that you hadn’t considered before. You can also ask our specialized interlocking technicians about your choices since they have worked on many interlocking jobs in the past.

 

Creating Accent Areas

You can also choose to make a certain landscaping area a focal point to accent your property even further. You may choose to create the main part of this area with contrasting stones and devote a small section in the centre to stones that match the colour of the bricks on your home. As well, you could do the opposite and have a main section done with matching pavers with contrasting pavers running along the outside. There are a number of options to choose from when you are trying to create an accent piece that becomes the focal point of the landscape on your property.

 

Pay Attention to the Size of the Bricks

The size of the interlocking bricks will all depend on what the area will be used for. If, for example, you are building a walkway that leads to the home from the driveway and there are no children in the household, you can use smaller sized pavers. If, on the other hand, children are going to be riding their bikes over the area and playing on it, you may want to consider getting larger stones that will create less gaps. This provides a safer play area for the kids.

 

If you are creating a brand-new patio area and don’t know what type of interlocking stones to choose, it’s important to note that larger pavers are usually better for chairs and tables. With less gaps appearing, it’s less likely that the table and chair legs will end up getting caught in the gaps.

 

Consider the Texture of the Pavers

It’s okay to use textured stones for driveways and walkways but you may want to think twice about getting anything textured for a patio area that will host a table and chairs. It’s much harder to move chairs over textured areas. Bumpy stones may not be the best idea for this type of area. Look for smoother stones but make sure they have a small amount of texture to them so that they don’t end up getting slippery from the rain. You don’t want to run into a situation where you have invited guests over and one of them ends up slipping and falling on your new patio!

 

Think of the Effect You Are Trying to Create

What is the effect you are trying to achieve with the new pavers? If you choose patterned pavers you can expect to receive an energetic and vibrant vibe from them, which is perfect for pool parties and special barbecues on the patio.  If you are trying to create a rustic living space outdoors, textured pavers present a rugged look. Interlocking stones with clean lines and neutral tones have a calming effect, which is perfect for gardens and tranquil spaces. Think about the mood you are trying to create with your new landscaping stones so that you can choose the best ones right from the start.

 

Where the Interlocking Pavers Will Be Located

Location is also a key part of choosing your stones. Patios and driveways always present a high risk of staining due to grease, engine oil and other staining materials. These stains will show up more on monotone, light-coloured pavers. Multi-coloured pavers usually hide stains better. This is an important factor to consider if you are going to be re-doing your driveway or patio area.

 

If you are planning on getting an outside area of your home upgraded with interlocking pavers this spring or summer, please visit our website at www.egeinterlock.com. We are the experts you need to give you a fair quote and we’ll do an excellent job on your property. We are 100% committed to customer satisfaction and we are willing to work with you to help you pick out the interlocking pavers that will best complement your home.

Pros and Cons of Concrete Patio Paving

Concrete pavers have become increasingly popular and can be used to pave outdoor areas such as patios, walkways, driveways and much more. When you think of concrete pavers you may envision them as being grey, concrete stones that are much like the cement you’re used to seeing. These concrete patios paving stones, however, also contain aggregate and sand along with additives that are used to enhance their performance. Colour additives are also added so you can find these pavers in a wide range of colours.

Interlock Driveway Pavers

The combination of products in this mixture is poured into various moulds of different sizes and shapes. The pavers are then vibrated to make sure that the concrete is compressed before it cures to make them as hard as possible. Once the entire process is done, the interlocked driveway pavers are able to withstand approximately 8000 pounds of pressure per square inch. Poured concrete on the other hand, can only withstand about 3,000 pounds of pressure per square inch. As a result, you can expect to have a stronger driveway when using concrete pavers versus regular poured concrete.

Interlocking Pavers

You can create wonderful patterns using interlocking pavers and you can mix and match colours if you want. The possibilities are endless when you are considering the style you like the best and how you would like everything arranged on your driveway, walkway, pool area, patio and other spaces.

 

Pros and Cons of Concrete Pavers

Here are some of the most important pros and cons that you should consider when you are ready to get an area paved.

 

Pros of Concrete Pavers

 

1. Many Design Options
With a wide variety of styles and colours to choose from, you can create a design that would work best according to the style of your home. When you want to create the perfect curb appeal, you’ll be able to match your pavers according to the colour and ambiance of your property. If you are unsure of the design or colours you would like to use, we can supply you with helpful suggestions and show you pictures of other work we have done. You can either use the same designs that we show you or simply use them as an inspiration to create your own look.

 

2. Repair and Maintenance
There is not a lot of maintenance that is required to maintain the functionality and appearance of your concrete outdoor area. You can sweep the pavers as required and give them a rinse with a hose in order to keep them clean. Weeds can be removed using a specialized product for weed killing and you can remove stains with a cleaner that has been specifically made for concrete.

 

Before using any type of cleaner or weed killer, however, it’s best to find out what the manufacturer of the product recommends. When you are getting your paving done it’s important to note the manufacturer of the pavers to make sure that you can get a list of recommendations. You can also ask the company that is providing you with the paving service to supply you with the information.

 

One of the best things about using individual pavers versus getting a wide area coated with poured concrete is the pavers can be removed individually if there is any type of problem. For example, if you experience frost heave or have any type of tree root pushing up on the pavers, the whole thing does not need to be redone. These pavers can be taken out individually where required and then put right back into place once the ground below has been handled.

 

3. Can Be Used Immediately
Unlike poured concrete and asphalt paving, you don’t have to wait three or four days for the area to settle before you can use it. As soon as the concrete patio paving company has installed the pavers you’ll be able to walk or drive on the area right away.

 

Cons of Concrete Pavers

While there aren’t a lot of cons to consider when it comes to concrete interlocking pavers there are a few that you should know about.

 

1. The Initial Cost
Concrete pavers are not the cheapest option when it comes to designing a patio, driveway, walkway or pool area but they are not the most expensive either. In fact, they generally cost less than natural stone pavers. They do cost more than poured concrete or asphalt but in the long term, you can expect them to last a lot longer. While the initial cost is more, you may want to see if you can fit the cost of concrete pavers into your budget in order to receive the most value for the money in terms of future use.

 

2. Not a Do-It-Yourself Project
You’ll need to pay to get the concrete interlocking pavers professionally installed since this is by no means a do-it-yourself project. It’s a lot easier to pour concrete then it is to prep the area to level the pavers and then lay them out properly. If you are looking for a do-it-yourself project then you should consider pouring concrete or asphalt instead.

 

Concrete patio paving is the wave of the future. You have flexibility of design and can rest assured knowing that you have a strong driveway that will last for many years. There isn’t a lot of maintenance required and this method provides great value for the money.

 

If you have any questions at all regarding concrete interlocking pavers or stone pavers for your outside area, please visit our website now at www.egeinterlock.com. We can answer any questions you may have and can also provide you with a free quote. We can let you know what your different options are and the different materials that are currently on the market today.

 

When it comes to professionalism and customer service, we are a leader in the industry. You can count on us to provide you with the driveway, patio or walkway design you envision that will bring out the best of your home.

How to Seal Your Interlocking Driveway or Pathway

It’s important to have your interlocking driveway or pathway sealed regularly. Bricks and pavers that are left unsealed can fade, stain, lose sand in the cracks, develop mould and weeds can start to grow between the pavers. When you maintain your interlocking walkway and driveway with proper sealing techniques, you can expect your bricks or pavers to last long and remain beautiful.

Throughout the years the interlocking pavers installed in your walkway or driveway will be subjected to a number of different elements such as:

 

• Bleaching from the rays of the sun
• Mud
• Excessive water
• Salt residue
• Oil stains

These can all stain and soil the interlocking stones so that they don’t look as good as when they were first laid down. It’s just a fact of life that the pavers will be exposed to a lot of wear and tear over the years. This is why it’s so important to properly seal your driveway, patio or walkway properly at the start and to seal it regularly as the years go by.

Choosing the Right Sealer for an Interlocking Walkway or Driveway

The sealer that you choose will all depend on the following:

 

• The type of finished look you’d like to achieve
• The amount of stabilization required for the sand between the joints
• How much stain resistance is required

There are seals available that provide stabilization for the sand in the cracks and in most cases it’s recommended to get this type of sealer. There will be a different stabilization requirement from one driveway to the next based on the type of ground that the pavers are on and the slope of the driveway or walkway. As well, each driveway will require a different amount of stain resistance based on the location of the home, weather conditions and other contributing factors.

Preparing the Surface for a Natural Stone Driveway

 

If you are going to be using concrete pavers that have been manufactured recently, they should be left to cure for at least 14 days before any sealing product is applied. This will vary according to the stones you are using so be sure to take a look at the manufacturer’s recommendations.

 

Before applying any type of sealing product the surface of the pavers must be 100% clean. This involves removing any paint, grease, oil or dirt from the bricks. If the pavers have already been sealed in the past it’s important to remove the previous sealer before applying the new one if there is any chance that the two sealers aren’t compatible with one another. There are products available to remove old sealers quite easily.

 

Sealing New Installations

 

In order to prepare the surface for sealing new installations be sure that the sand is 1/8 inch or more below the paver surface. Use a broom and a blower to remove any fine powder or sand residue and if there is any moisture on the pavers they should be allowed to dry for 24 hours or more. If you do notice any moisture, you may have to wait longer than 48 hours if the temperature is cool outside or if you have washed the pavers with a pressure washer. You won’t want to apply the sealer until you see that the pavers and the sand in the joints are completely dry.

 

The temperature of the surface should be anywhere ranging from 55°F to 85°F. Check the weather before applying your sealer to make sure that the temperature will be mild and not too cool. You should also make sure that there is no rain in the forecast for the next few days.

 

How to Apply Paver Sealer to an Interlocking Driveway or Walkway

 

One of the best ways to apply the sealer is by using a garden type of sprayer. The first coat that is put on should heavily saturate the pavers and you should notice that the joints are flooded. This gives you the certainty of knowing that the sealer has been completely soaked into the sand.

 

After this step is done, use a squeegee to wipe away any excess sealer in the sand joints. A large rubber or foam squeegee may be used to do this. Do a section at a time and as you are doing it make sure that no puddles have formed on the stones.

 

A second coat can be applied thinly usually after two hours, but this will depend on the recommended guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the sealer. A second coat will provide additional gloss and protection to a paved walkway or driveway. Allow the final coat to dry for at least two hours before walking on it but try to keep off it is much as possible during this time. As well, there should be no vehicles allowed on the driveway for at least 72 hours to ensure the proper curing of the sealer. These are general guidelines but always check the product label first to see what the manufacturer of the product recommends.

 

Regular Maintenance

 

There are special cleaners available for routine cleaning of your interlocking walkways, patio and driveway. There are also heavy duty cleaners on the market that will help you remove oil or grease spots.

 

As long as your first sealer was applied properly you probably won’t need to reseal your interlocked area again for another 3 to 5 years. It’s important not to reseal the stones too often since it can result in faded pavers and various other problems. If you think that it’s time to get your pavers resealed, it’s best to contact an interlocking professional for advice.

 

Keep your interlocking stones and pavers looking their best with regular maintenance. If you need any type of help at all, please feel free to reach out to us through our website at www.egeinterlock.com or give us a call directly at 416-887-0884. At EGE Interlocking & Paving we are the natural stone specialists that know exactly what it takes to keep interlocked areas looking their best all year round.

The Benefits of Interlock Paving your Driveway

 

Interlock driveways are a beautiful way to say welcome to your guests when they are driving up to your home. They look a lot better than traditional asphalt, and they are an affordable option for creating the perfect curb appeal. Interlock stones are available as concrete, brick and stone pavers, and they are available in many different colours, patterns and textures. When it comes to creating your own style and personalizing your driveway, there is nothing better than choosing interlock pavers.

 

Permeable concrete interlock paving systems are gaining a huge reputation in the field. They come with 3 benefits including the following:

• Meet storm water management regulations
• Maximum design flexibility
• Easy to repair

 

Asphalt is a cost-effective option for driveways but it’s really best to choose interlock paving if at all possible. The benefits outweigh the small extra cost and they can last for many, many years. There are a lot of reasons why you should be opting for an interlocking driveway and interlocking walkway, which include the following:

Aesthetically Pleasing Interlocking Bricks

 

Interlocking bricks are available in a wide range of colours so you’ll be able to choose the one that will highlight your home the best. There are also different patterns and designs to choose from so that you can make your driveway stand apart from all others on your street. Let your driveway and walkway reflect your own style while at the same time improving your home’s curb appeal.

 

Property Value

A natural stone driveway looks a lot better than traditional asphalt. It is a solid investment in terms of increasing your home’s resale value and improving the curb appeal. Your driveway and your walkway are going to be making the first impression on potential buyers so make sure that you set the best impression possible right from the start.

These stones are durable and can last for years. This is a major selling feature when you have your home up on the market. You’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of a natural stone driveway yourself before you end up selling your home. Then, when it’s time to put your home up for sale, you can reap the rewards of a faster sale and more money for your property.

 

Patterns and Design

When you decide to interlock your driveway, you’ll be shown various stones with different dimensions and textures. You can opt for mosaics to make the front entrance of your home stand out even more. You can personalize your driveway to meet the ambience of your home and the rest of the landscape. You can’t do this with asphalt or solid concrete.

 

Wide Range of Colours

There are so many different coloured stones to choose from.  When it comes to asphalt, you only have one colour of choice – black. Make sure you complement your home’s design and colours by choosing the interlock colours that best accent your home. It’s easy to create a look that is harmonious and continuous that ties the entrance together with your house.

Easy Repairs to Interlocking Stones

 

When it comes to repairs, it’s a lot easier to fix up interlock pavements than it is to repair asphalt or solid concrete driveways. If you happen to spill oil on the driveway, the pavers can be removed easily and then replaced with new ones. When you first get your driveway installed, you’ll be provided with spare stones that you can keep on hand should any need to be replaced in the future.

If you have an asphalt driveway, on the other hand, it can only be patched or completely replaced if it is damaged. If you’ve ever seen a patched asphalt driveway, you know that it doesn’t look very good at all. It’s impossible to get an asphalt driveway looking as good as new when it has been patched and recoated.

 

Minimal Maintenance

The maintenance required for an interlocking driveway is minimal. It involves routine sweeping, and it’s also advised that you hose it down regularly to release any grime and dirt. You should also seal your natural stone driveway every 3 – 4 years. This will prevent the stones from getting mold due to rain and snow and will stop stains from absorbing into the pavers.

This type of driveway also doesn’t tend to develop large cracks and potholes like asphalt does. When you have interlocked stones lining your driveway and walkway, it’s basically set-and-forget and if anything does go wrong, you’ll know that there is an easy fix available. It’s great to know that there will be at least one thing on your property that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance and is simple to fix.

 

Durability

Interlocking stones last a lot longer than a paved driveway with asphalt. Many companies provide a lifetime warranty that is transferable on their pavers, which covers a lot of different issues such as salt resistance. Living in Canada, we need the reassurance that the salt that accumulates our vehicles isn’t going to wreck our driveways. When you’re looking for a durable driveway that can stand the test of time, an interlocking driveway is the way to go. This is one investment that you’ll never regret making in the future.

 

Flexibility

Interlocking pavers are naturally flexible. They are able to flex as the ground moves during the thawing and freezing cycles that we experience in our climate. In the spring, when everything warms up again, they settle right back into place. The seams that are placed between the stones ensure that the stones themselves don’t end up cracking. Asphalt, on the other hand, tends to move, forming cracks.

 

When you choose an interlocking driveway, you can rest assured that you have chosen wisely and will be able to enjoy all of the benefits listed above. Increase the value of your home while enjoying the look of the driveway and walkway.

 

For more information about making your home stand out with a one-of-a-kind, unique driveway that complements your home’s style and colour, please visit www.egeinterlock.com or feel free to call us at 416-887-0884.

If you notice that your interlock patio or pathway isn’t looking as good as it used to, it may be an indication that it needs to be sealed. You can save these interlock areas easily by sealing them properly. When you seal your patio and pathway, you’ll enjoy a number of benefits including weed and stain prevention, stone restoration, and overall added protection.

 

Weed and Stain Prevention

 

It’s hard to constantly bend down and pick out the weeds that appear in the cracks between stones. It seems that once you have gone over it fully, new weeds start to appear rapidly. Giving your patio and pathway a coating can definitely help with this problem. Avoid the weeds and enjoy the beauty instead.

 

It’s easy for oil and other types of grease to stain interlock pavers and stones since they are quite porous. These oils make their way through the stone and into the joints and once they are there they can be hard to remove. Sealing the stones gives a layer of resistance so that the grease or oil cannot penetrate into the cracks or stones. Once the area has been sealed, you can park your car or truck again with full confidence that the stones are protected.

 

Overall Protection

 

Oil and grease aren’t the only things that can harm your pavers. Other damaging things such as weather elements can wreak damage. In Canada we have large temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Protect your interlock from constant exposure to the elements by getting it coated today.

 

Stone Restoration

 

When you pressure wash your patio or pathway it can make it look almost new again. Once you have completed the washing be sure to give the area a protective coating so that it can continue looking that way for a long, long time. It’s an easy extra step that is worth it in the long run.

 

Find out how you can make your pathway and patio look great again by calling the experts at EGE Interlock. We can be reached by phone at 416-887-0884 or through our website at egeinterlock.com.

Interlock driveways that are made from pavers or stones provide an elegant appearance to any home. They are also easier to maintain than concrete or asphalt, but at times you may have to deal with stubborn stains that are harder to remove than others. Rust, oil, hard water and grease can definitely leave your driveway, pathway or patio looking unsightly. Here are some great tips you can use to get rid of these stains to get your interlocked area looking fantastic again.

 

Oil Stains

 

Quite often the oil spill has come from a car but there may be oil deposited onto a patio near a barbecue as well. It’s best to keep a granular material close by that can absorb the oil along with rags and paper towels.

 

If you’re dealing with an oil stain this can best be removed by using a granular material that can absorb the oil easily. Blot the area using a paper towel or rag. A lot of the spill may be absorbed by using this method. Avoid rubbing the area since this can make the situation worse. Allow the granulated material to sit on the stones for at least six hours before the granular particles are swept away.

 

Hard Water Stains

 

If you’re dealing with a hard water stain on your pavers, you can purchase an Efflorescence Remover from the manufacturer. Efflorescence occurs when soluble salts found in the stones react to temperature fluctuations, humidity and rainfall. The salts in the stones rise to the surface and leave a powdery, white deposit on the surface.

 

It’s important to test an area first, however, before treating the entire area. Find an inconspicuous place and do a test run before proceeding to do the rest of the walkway, patio or driveway.

 

Rust Stains

 

If something made of iron or steel is allowed to sit on stones or pavers for a length of time you may find rust stains appearing. This is due to resting metal that drips onto the stones. This is one of the hardest stains to remove. Many paver manufacturers offer specialized materials for removing rust. The area must be scrubbed with a nylon soft bristle brush and then rinsed.

 

If you aren’t able to completely get rid of any of the above-mentioned stains to the point where you are satisfied with the look, you may have to consider replacing some of the stones completely with new ones. If you need any help with stains on your interlock stones, please give us a call today at 416-887-0884 or get in touch with us directly through our website at https://www.egeinterlock.com/.