How do I make my fireplace last?
To ensure the durability of your blocks, we recommend that you (1) add sand to the bottom of the fireplace up to the tub (except for the BBQ fireplace), (2) only make ambient fires, (3) never water your blocks in order to avoid thermal shocks and (4) never make fires in winter, for the same reason as recommendation 3. You can even cover your fireplace during the winter to keep it looking new and warm.
Our fireplaces are designed to be used as ambient fires. It’s a bad idea to use them for a bonfire, and we think a ambient fire is just as joyful 😉
How can I prevent grass from growing between the tiles or pavers?
We recommend using polymeric sand in product joints to minimize grass growth. There is little that can be done in wet, shaded areas to prevent grass growth. If you want to solve the problem permanently, seek professional advice.
Can a damaged tile or paver be replaced?
Yes, as long as you kept a few extra units during the initial installation (which is why we recommend that you buy about 10% more than the quantity planned for your project).
To replace the tile or paver, scrape off the polymer sand and, using two flathead screwdrivers, remove the product and replace it with the new one. Fill the joint with polymer sand and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How long should I wait before cleaning and sealing my tiles and/or pavers?
Before cleaning and sealing a new concrete product, we recommend that you wait at least one (1) year so that the efflorescence has time to rise to the surface.
How do I protect my tiles from stains?
Our Drycast products are now made with Hydrapel, which protects them and makes them more resistant to deterioration. We may recommend the application of a sealer if your tiles are under trees and/or if the surface is used to create a space where you will cook, eat, etc.
Be aware that there are several types and colors of sealers and that a sealer could change the look of your slab (either by color or luster).
Please check with the sealant manufacturers and read the instructions for their use. Patio Drummond declines all responsibility for damages caused by the use of a sealant on its products.
How do you de-ice concrete in winter?
We recommend the use of fine sand and/or gravel to de-ice your concrete products in winter.
Patio Drummond prohibits the use of de-icing salt to prevent the surface of concrete slabs, pavers, balconies and stoops from chipping or crumbling. Patio Drummond declines all responsibility for damages caused by the use of de-icing salt on its products.
De-icing salts are often sold without any warning about their harmful effects on concrete slabs, pavers and balconies. Even when a package mentions “safe for concrete”, it is important to pay close attention to the warnings and conditions of application, as they are often very unrealistic.
The APCHQ strongly recommends the use of sand or fine gravel. Given the manufacturers’ restrictions on the use of de-icing salts, it is much simpler to refrain from sprinkling them on your concrete balconies, in order to prevent their surface from flaking or crumbling.
Sand and gravel do require more maintenance, but these two products are certainly a guarantee of durability for the concrete of your slabs, pavers and balconies.
Will freezing and thawing damage concrete products?
No. Frost damage is virtually non-existent! The space between the pieces of concrete (pavers, slabs or walls) allows them to move without cracking or splitting. The quality of the concrete we use also ensures increased frost resistance of each product.
New in 2022:
Our drycast products have undergone their greatest improvement to date with what is known as Hydrapel. Designed at the factory for increased quality and grading, the products are manufactured with an additive that makes them permeable and therefore more durable. Added directly to the mix of our drycast products, Hydrapel reduces the absorption rate and increases the resistance to freezing and thawing as well as to bad weather. Hydrapel protects against stains and reinforces the resistance to UV rays for a brilliant color that will last forever!