How to Keep Brick Pavers Looking Like New

Brick pavers are ideal for high-traffic areas like patios and walkways because they don't require too much maintenance. And while they're more durable than plain old bricks, they can still weather down and stain from time to time. Here's how to keep your brick pavers looking like new:

Clean regularly

Dirt and spills can fade your beautiful brick paving, so clean them routinely! Sweep away dirt and debris, and always clean up spilled liquids and oils as quickly as possible.

Apply mild detergent

Small stains can be removed using a mild detergent mixed in water. Simply rinse it down and scrub lightly where you see unwanted marks.

Consider power washing

For more stubborn stains, you might want to pull out the power washer or hire a professional. Power washing your brick pavers will give them a deep clean and refresh your landscape design. 

Use a sealer

After you've thoroughly cleaned your brick pavers, applying a layer of sealant will help keep them clean, prevent weeds from growing, and repel stains.

For more info about caring for your brick paving, don't hesitate to call Stasi Brothers at 516-997-7283. Add us to your circles on Google+ as well!

How to Choose a Paving Material for Your Pool

Ready to pave the area around your pool, but not sure which paving material is a good fit? We’re here to help you make the right decision. Consider the following points before choosing paving materials for your pool:

Surface texture

photo credit: Coppell Pools via photopin cc

The area material surrounding your pool shouldn't be too rough when you walk or stand on it. After all, you will likely spend a lot of time out there during the summer. Concrete is smooth and finished, making it one of the most popular pool pavers around. Brick is not only smooth, but also slip resistant. Stone has a more natural texture that might not feel as nice on your skin.

Size

photo credit: SupremeCrete via photopin cc

It’s important to take into consideration how large the paving area is. Concrete will cost you less than brick or natural stone, so if the area surrounding your pool is very big, concrete will be more cost-effective.

Appearance

Concrete, brick and natural stone all have their own distinct look. Try to envision how each paving material will look with the rest of your house and landscape before making a decision.

Time

Have a deadline? The time it takes to pave with concrete will be different than that of brick. Call Stasi Brothers Asphalt at (516) 997-7283 for help determining what’s right for your situation.

Browse our photo gallery today for more ideas on paving the area around your pool. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for more tips and pointers from Stasi Brothers Asphalt!

Concrete vs. Asphalt: Which Is Right for Your Driveway?

When it comes to paving a driveway, the two most popular options are asphalt and concrete. While both surfaces are similar, there are key differences that need to be taken into account. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each:

Asphalt

Pros:

• Relatively inexpensive
• Less likely to crack
• Less likely to show stains
• Easy to repair
•  Easy to tint
• Flexible strength
• Salt resistant

Cons:

• Short lifespan
•  Maintenance required every few years
• Oily texture softens when it’s hot
• Rough edges

Concrete

photo credit: SupremeCrete via photopin cc

Pros:

• Longer lifespan (30-40 years)
• Low maintenance
• Does not soften when it’s hot
• Easy to color and score
• Resists indentation
• Pothole and weather-resistant
• Stays cool in the summer heat

Cons:

• 40-60 percent more expensive than asphalt
• Prone to cracking
• Not easy to repair
• Easily stained

Did this list of pros and cons help you decide whether concrete or asphalt is better for your driveway? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page.

Caring for Your New Asphalt Driveway: Dos and Don'ts

Everybody wants to keep their driveway looking as good as new. There are certain things you can do to care for your new asphalt driveway. And, of course, there are some things you should avoid doing. Let’s take a look at the dos and don’ts of caring for your new asphalt driveway:

DO wait at least 24 hours before driving on your new asphalt driveway. If it’s hot out, wait 3-5 days.

DON’T turn your steering wheel when the car is stopped on your new asphalt driveway for 2-3 months. Parking the car in a straight line can help extend the driveway’s life.

DO hose down your driveway on especially hot days to help harden the asphalt.

DON’T allow sharp objects like motorcycle stands and lawn furniture to touch the surface for about a year. They will leave an indentation.

DO keep dirt off of your new asphalt driveway at all times; it can pull important oils out of the blacktop.

DON’T allow weeds and other plant life to crowd the edges of your new asphalt driveway. Eventually, they could burrow through the stone base and up out of the asphalt.

Learn more about the asphalt used by Stasi Brothers Asphalt at our website. What other tips do you have for keeping your asphalt driveway looking good? Tweet us @StasiBrothers.