Frequently Asked Questions

WILL WEEDS GROW FROM UNDERNEATH PAVING STONES?

No. Weeds require an appropriate amount of light to germinate and survive. The only time they will occur is when airborne spores or seeds infiltrate the sand joints. A stiff brush, herbicide, a torch, or even boiling water will eliminate the weeds. Just remember that any sand removed in the cleaning process must be replaced.

HOW DO I INSTALL PAVING STONE?

HOW DO I INSTALL RETAINING WALLS?

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PAVING STONE VERSUS OTHER TYPES OF PAVED SURFACES?

WHAT IS POLYMERIC SAND?

Polymeric sand is a paving stone and natural stone jointing material that, when made wet, will become hard.  This will make it resistant to erosion from wind and water and will prevent ant infestations. Unlike mortar or cement, though, the hardened polymeric sand will remain pliable after hardening, allowing it to flex with any minor movements of the stone.  For a decorative feature, it is available in multiple colours to compliment any application.

IS IT DIFFICULT TO SHOVEL SNOW OFF OF PAVING STONES?

No. When paving stone is properly installed, snow shovels will glide over the level stones with ease.  

WHAT IS THE WHITE STUFF ON MY PAVING STONE AND CR-WALL AND HOW DO I GET RID OF IT?

This “stuff” is called efflorescence and is a natural by-product of the cement hydration process. If efflorescence is present, it will wash and/or wear off in time. There are also chemical efflorescence cleaners available.

HOW CAN I GET RID OF A STAIN ON MY PAVING STONES?

You can experiment with concrete cleaners and acids to clean the mess, but often the problem is not completely solved by this treatment.  The simplest and most effective way to get rid of the stain is to replace the dirty pavers. Part of the beauty of paving stones is that they can be pulled and replaced with new stones.  Just remember to get the pavers from the same place as the originals since different paving stone manufacturers often have slightly different finishes and colours to their paving stone. Also, remember to sweep sand into the paving stone cracks when the pavers have been replaced.

WHAT IS PAVING STONE EDGING RESTRAINT?

Paving stone edging restraint is a plastic edge for paving stone.  This versatile plastic edging follows the form of paving stone edges, whether they be straight or curved, and holds the pavers tightly together.  It is held in place by 12" steel spikes hammered into the compacted gravel base of the paving stone. Once the edging restraint system is installed, it is covered up with soil, mulch, or sod, making it invisible.

IS CEDAR WOOD DIFFICULT TO MAINTAIN?

No. Cedar is a great wood for outdoor use because it contains natural oils that help protect itself from the environment.  Non-treated cedar will become a silvery/grey colour as it ages. If this colour is not desired, simply apply an oil, stain, or paint.

HOW MUCH WATER SHOULD I GIVE MY NEWLY SODDED LAWN?

The amount of water is not as important as how often water is given.  When water is heavily applied, runoff will result because the soil does not have enough time to absorb it.  It is better to apply water for short periods at a time frequently than to do it all in one watering. The best way to know if your sod is getting enough water is to pull up a corner of laid sod and look at the soil underneath.  If the soil is still dry, more water is needed. If it is moist throughout, you’re doing a good job!