Caring For Brick Paved Surfaces
Your new brick pavement surface is ready for use right away. (However, stay away from edge areas for at least 48 hours) Sealing the brick is not absolutely necessary, but is beneficial for a couple of reasons. First, sealing prepares the surface for possible stains and makes them easier to clean (if the pavers are located in an area that may be exposed to food or drink spills such as patios, or oil/antifreeze stains such as driveways, it may be wise to seal). Secondly, sealer helps to stabilize the joints between the brick by acting as a “glue” to keep sand from washing away. Sealer may be applied with a roller or a garden sprayer. We recommend an oil-based concrete sealer such as Uni-Lock brand sealer, available at landscape supply stores. Note that brick paved surfaces should not be sealed for at least six months after installation to allow salts and additives in the brick to purge naturally. Jointing sand can be swept into the surfaces thoroughly every spring to replenish the minimal amounts that may have been washed away.
Do not use Calcium Chloride or other salts to melt snow on these surfaces, as over time, damage can occur to the stone. Sand can be used, or if salt is applied, it should be rinsed of as soon as possible. Do not use an edger along brick surface when performing lawn maintenance, because this could cause chipping or cracking of the brick. We recommend instead using a line trimmer to prevent grass from growing over the brick pavers and maintaining a nice clean appearance.