Tropical Storm Helene recently swept through the southeastern U.S., leaving behind significant damage to many outdoor spaces, including patios, driveways, and walkways. If your home or business was impacted by the storm, you’re likely looking at debris, flooding, and potential damage to your pavers. At Old Town Pavers, we specialize in helping homeowners not only install beautiful pavers but also restore them after severe weather events. Here’s how you can bring your paved surfaces back to life after a storm.
Steps to Restore Your Paved Surfaces After Tropical Storm
1. Assess the Damage
After the storm passes, inspect your pavers for visible damage. Check for:
- Dislodged or shifted pavers
- Cracks or chips caused by flying debris
- Erosion or washed-out sand between the joints
- Pooling water, which can indicate drainage issues
If your pavers have been shifted or cracked, it’s essential to address the damage immediately to prevent further deterioration. Our team at Old Town Pavers can provide a detailed assessment and suggest the best course of action.
2. Remove Debris Safely
Start by clearing away debris, such as branches, leaves, and dirt, that may have settled on your pavers during the storm. Use a broom for smaller debris and a blower for larger areas. However, avoid using high-pressure water jets as they can further damage displaced pavers or wash out the joint sand, worsening drainage issues.
If your pavers have been submerged in water, allow the area to dry out before attempting any cleanup to avoid additional wear.
3. Clean the Surface
Once the debris is cleared, use a mild detergent mixed with water to clean the paver surface. This can help remove stains left by dirt, mud, or other organic material carried in by floodwaters. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can degrade the sealant on your pavers or damage the surface.
At Old Town Pavers, we recommend eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure the longevity of your pavers and their surroundings.
4. Reapply Joint Sand
Heavy rain and stormwater can wash out the sand between your pavers, which helps maintain their structural integrity. After cleaning, you’ll need to sweep polymeric sand back into the joints to stabilize the pavers and prevent weeds from growing. Make sure the sand is thoroughly compacted into the joints and that the surface is completely dry before you proceed to the next step.
5. Reseal Your Pavers
If your pavers were sealed before the storm, the protective layer might have worn off due to prolonged exposure to water. Applying a fresh coat of sealant will protect your pavers from future damage, including UV rays, water absorption, and staining. Sealing also helps enhance the color and overall appearance of your paved surfaces.
Old Town Pavers offers high-quality sealing services to ensure your pavers remain resilient through all weather conditions.
6. Repair or Replace Damaged Pavers
In some cases, the storm may have caused irreversible damage to your pavers. If there are significant cracks, chips, or displacement, it’s best to consult professionals for repair or replacement. Our experts can help match your existing pavers and restore the aesthetics of your outdoor spaces.
At Old Town Pavers, we prioritize using durable, weather-resistant materials, ensuring that your pavers not only look great but stand the test of time—even through severe weather like Tropical Storm Helene.
Conclusion
Storms like Helene can leave behind significant damage, but with the right approach, your pavers can be restored to their former beauty. At Old Town Pavers, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from post-storm cleanup to full restoration. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you bring your outdoor space back to life.
Get in touch with us at Old Town Pavers for all your paver installation and restoration needs!