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/.