To wash or not to wash - acid that is & nshould I seal it


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Old 09-06-11, 11:02 AM
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To wash or not to wash - acid that is & nshould I seal it

I have freshly installer paver deck that looks 100 times better than prior arrangement & no I am not exaggerating
It has some stains here and there from the work that was done after it has been installed, so I see where a deep cleaning would benefit the looks, not sure about the acid wash though. I am conflicted for two reasons. Not sure if the acid wash will take absolutely all the stains (granted there is not that many, but I am not sure of how deep they went) or just skim the surface ones. Also not sure if the acid will affect the long term durability of the pavers, that I feel is more important than looks. I have recently seen a huge paver driveway that was literally washed down to the aggregate (not worn, washed - you could tell) and most likely will have to be redone. After doing mine, I resist the thought of how much would THAT cost
If you feel there is another way to clean the pavers, please feel free to suggest as well as sealant you would use. I sure would not feel comfortable sealing a stained paver.
Thanks!
 
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Old 09-06-11, 05:01 PM
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I wouldn't seal it at all. As for cleaning the stains, start with the weakest product & work your way up to the acid. See what the local hardware store or home depot have to offer.
 
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Old 09-06-11, 09:08 PM
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Thanks Pulpo,

Just was wondering what are the reasons for not sealing it? I assume it will become pretty ugly, especially in the bbq area with inevitable grease etc.
As far as products, I know if I go to HD and ask 5 different people I'll get 10 different answers. I want to avoid any possible problems like, causing afloracense or forcing the dirt further inside the paver. Anything you could suggest?
Thanks,
 
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Old 09-07-11, 12:28 AM
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Sealers trap the moisture. The pavers need to breathe. I don't have a product to recommend, for cleaning.
 
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Old 09-07-11, 11:44 AM
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thanks again!

I will start with simple green and like you said, work it's way until the stains are gone.
 
 

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