Why Are My Pavers Chipping?

Chipping of pavers can give homeowners a lot of headaches. As a homeowner, you want your pavers to have a beautiful and durable finish for years. Unfortunately, chipping is a common problem that can occur at any time. So, why are my pavers chipping, and what is the remedy?

Why Are My Pavers Chipping?

The main reason why pavers are chipping is due to improper installation. If the base was adequately compacted, or the pavers were laid unevenly, this can prevent them from becoming unbalanced and start chipping. In addition, if the wrong type of sand is used, this can also cause chipping.

A "point of loading" can also cause your pavers to chip. This is when a concentrated load is placed on a specific pavement area, such as a heavy vehicle or a tree root. This could cause the pavers to shift and become unbalanced, leading to chipping. It’s advisable to ensure the loading point is well distributed across the pavement or create a unique support system for large objects to decrease the risk of chipping.

Remember that installing pavers is expensive, so it is essential to take proper care of them. If your pavers show chipping signs, contact a professional paver installer to assess the damage and recommend the best remedy. At Aviara Pavers, we specialize in Paver installation and repair for driveways, outdoor living areas, and entry ways, so contact us if your pavers are chipping, and we will be happy to help.

What Are Other Common Causes of Paver Chipping?

Apart from improper installation and point of loading, there are many other causes for chipping. The following are some of the most common causes:

Weather Damage

Extreme weather conditions can cause your pavers to crack and chip over time. This happens when the temperature drops and causes a contraction of your pavers, leading to cracking. Also, during the rainy season, water can freeze and thaw, providing further harm to the pavers.

UV light also damages pavers over time. The UV rays break down the pigments on the paver's surface and cause it to fade and chip away.

Lack of Sealant

Sealants play a vital role in protecting the pavers from water, oil spills, and other contaminants. Failure to seal your pavers after installation can lead to fast erosion and significant chipping. Various sealing products are available to keep your pavers looking beautiful and damage-free.

If you are unsure of the causes of your paver chipping, it is best to contact a professional. At Aviara Pavers, we have professionals who will assess the damage and provide the best solution. Our experienced team will also recommend the best sealant to protect your pavers for years. Contact us today for more details!

Use of Deicing Products

Deicing products are used to melt ice and snow during the winter months. An example of such a chemical is sodium chloride. However, deicing chemicals on pavers can cause them to chip away over time and become unsafe.

Over time, the deicing agent like salt products will corrode the surface of the pavers and create cracks, leading to scratching and chipping. The best way to prevent this is to use a deicing agent specifically designed for pavers.

Unstable Base

The base is one of the most important parts of the paver installation process. If the base is compacted correctly, it can prevent the pavers from shifting and becoming unbalanced. Proper compaction of the sub-base is the key to stable pavers.

Many professionals use a compactor to ensure proper compaction. A compactor is a machine that vibrates the base and ensures it is evenly compacted so that your pavers will be stable and secure.

Use of Thin Pavers

Thin pavers are more likely to chip compared to thicker pavers. The thinner the paver, the less stable it is and the easier it is to chip. Therefore, always use thicker pavers for a paver installation project if you want them to last longer and remain chip-free.

An ideal thickness for a paver installation is 60mm or more. This will ensure that your pavers remain stable and secure, no matter what kind of load they are subjected to.

What Are the Remedies for Paver Chipping?

Several remedies are available to fix the problem if your pavers are already chipping. The following are some of the most common remedies:

• Re-laying: The first remedy is to remove the affected pavers and re-lay them. It is essential to ensure that you use the same type of paver and adequately prepare the base.

• Repairing: If the pavers are only slightly chipping, you can fill in the gaps with a paver sealant. This will help to keep the pavers together and prevent further damage.

• Sealing: Sealing your pavers will help to protect them from damage caused by UV rays and water. It is important to use the recommended sealant to ensure that the pavers are properly sealed.

• Replacing: In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the damaged pavers. If the damage is severe, this can be the only solution.

• Ensure proper maintenance: Regular maintenance of your pavers is the best way to ensure they remain chip-free. Cleaning your pavers often and inspecting for any damage can help to keep your pavers in good condition.

• Ensure the base is properly compacted: A compacted base is the key to long-lasting and stable pavers. It is essential to ensure that the base is properly compacted before installing the pavers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Bring Pavers Back to Life?

The best way to bring pavers back to life if they are chipping or discolored is to clean them and seal them. Clean the pavers with a pressure washer, making sure to use a pressure washer with a low-pressure setting.

What Is Meant by Sharp Sand?

Sharp sand is sand with regular and uniform grains that are sharp and angular. Sharp sand is commonly used for a paver base as it creates a more stable foundation and helps to reduce the shifting and chipping of pavers.

Conclusion

Chipped pavers can be a nuisance or cause an eyesore on your property. Taking the necessary steps to ensure that your pavers are installed properly and using the right materials can help to prevent them from chipping. Also, ensure regular maintenance to help keep your pavers in good condition. Cheers!