We've got a few tips to ensure your new paver patio stays in tip-top shape. You'll want to keep the following maintenance best practices in mind.
Your home's water supply might be a problem. Iron-rich water may cause discoloration. This generally impacts those on private water wells over those on a municipal water supply. You'll want to keep this in mind when hosing down your patio, watering the grass next to the patio's border and watering plants near or on the patio's surface.
Decaying leaves, walnuts and other organic debris can cause staining. As the seasons change, remove fallen debris on a regular basis from the patio's surface.
A leaking propane grill or yard equipment might be the source of an unexpected stain. When using a gas leaf blower to remove that fallen debris from the patio, be sure that the gas cap is on tight. A small leak in a grill's propane connection can cause staining. Be mindful of oil, grease and fuel stains when working around a new patio.
Skip salting in the winter. Salt is corrosive to most surfaces, including pavers, concrete and asphalt. Yep, that includes those "pet safe" ice melt products. Despite marketing efforts, there is no such thing as "concrete safe" ice melt. Using salt products on pavers can cause spalling (chipping/flaking). We don't advise using salt on pavers ever, but if you absolutely must, please hold off for 12 months after install to help reduce the risk of damage.
Wait one year before sealing the patio's surface, if desired. New pavers that are "fresh" from the factory have a high moisture content after the manufacturing process. You'll want to give them some time to release that moisture and efflorescence before sealing.
Use a concrete or masonry filler to repair chips and cracks. Slam down a cast iron patio chair with enough force at just the right angle? Well, sometimes chips happen. Use a filler product to repair small areas as soon as possible. Doing so will help maintain the surface integrity of the impacted paver.