What is Efflorescence?
Efflorescence is a common phenomenon that all concrete products around the world can experience. It is insoluble in water and is observed as a whitish deposit on the surface of the pavers. This substance is calcium carbonate (CaCO3) which is most commonly referred to as salt. The chemistry of the formation of efflorescence is complex; however, it can be explained as the migration of salt by capillary action to the surface of the pavers. In most cases the salt has either migrated from within the pavers, the sands in the sub-base or the curing bedding mortar when laid on a concrete base. The efflorescence can be removed from the surface of the pavers by cleaning them with an efflorescence cleaner or using a mix of water and acid. This process is covered in the technical information section of this site. The recurrence of efflorescence can be virtually eliminated in most cases by sealing the product with a good quality penetrating sealer (not a surface sealer).
Cleaning Riverstone pavers:
Riverstone recommend that a professional pavement cleaning contractor be engaged to clean and seal your pavers. If attempting to remove efflorescence yourself, you can either wash the pavers with diluted Hydrochloric Acid or a specialty cleaning solution such as Klen International's “Anti-Eff”. These products must always be used with caution and within the guidelines of the manufacturer. In order to determine the appropriate dilution, test cleaning on loose pavers should always be attempted first. More specific instructions are available in the Technical Information section of this site. The acid cleaning process does remove some of the surface of the pavers and care should always be taken.
Sealing Riverstone pavers:
Choosing the appropriate sealer for your pavers is not a simple task. We recommend that you seek advice considering the requirements of the pavement. For example some sealers (acrylic emulsions) can create a thick glossy coating on the pavement which will be slippery. This is clearly not appropriate in a highly trafficked area or for around a pool.
Riverstone recommend the sealer Dry-Treat Stainproof, which is a penetrating natural look sealer that is alcohol based. When applied by an approved applicator this sealer has a 15 year warranty. It does not change the colour of the pavers and does not adversely affect the slip resistance characteristics of the pavers
New Sovereign 395x395x40mm pavers are now available in leading paving retail outlets. The Sovereign paver is a versatile medium size square paver easy to handle, with colour character and style. An exciting feature of the new Sovereign paver is its medium size square shape. This offers ease of installation and makes it suitable for large and small areas.
(Brochure Download is available in ABOUT section of this web site)
New Domain 495x395x40mm pavers are now available. The Domain is an imposing, boldly proportioned rectangular paver availble in five stylish natural colours: Bluestone, Ash, Buff, Mediterranean White & Driftwood. The Domain allows various stretcher bond or standard grid laying patterns.
(Brochure Download is available in ABOUT section of this web site)
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