|
Frequently asked questions by Homeowners ‘expecting the best’ from their paving:
Is the paving manufacturer a member of appropriate standard setting and watchdog organizations in the industry?
Bosun paving products carry the SABS mark – a guarantee of quality in the South African market. Bosun is also a member of the Concrete Manufacturers Association (CMA) and the Gauteng Master Builders Association (GMBA). It is important to choose a product that carries the above accreditations; this ensures that you are purchasing a quality product that is durable. Bosun’s pavers require very little maintenance, they don’t have to be sealed regularly, or be replaced on a regular basis. Paving with Bosun products is convenient, as it can be used immediately after compaction of the pavers and sweeping with joint sand is done.
back to top
Is the product guaranteed?
At Bosun we stand by our product. We offer a 5 year guarantee on our products. Please refer to our guarantee for detailed information.
back to top
Can Bosun deliver the product to your site?
Bosun can arrange delivery. Be sure to mention any delivery constraints such as narrow gates, steep driveways or overhead structures to your Bosun sales person.
back to top
What is the lifespan of the product?
Concrete is most durable and used for paving products all over the world. With the correct installation and normal use, Bosun products will last a lifetime.
back to top
If my pavers get damaged or chipped, is it possible to replace that paver or piece of paving?
Yes, replacing damaged pavers can be done with ease. It is advisable to ask your paving contractor for a few extra pavers during the installation so that they can be set aside in case you need to replace some damaged pavers at a later date. For a detailed step by step guide on how to replace and relay your damaged or chipped pavers please click here.
back to top
How do I keep my paving clean?
In order to keep paving looking good for many years, regular cleaning and maintenance should be done. Bosun recommends that you regularly hose down your pavers with water and give them a good sweep with an outdoor, hard-bristled broom; this keeps your pavers clean and prevents weed growth. We also recommend that you inspect your paving on a quarterly basis for any loose, damaged or stained paving, and to ensure that the jointing material is intact. When it comes to stains there are various methods for cleaning different types. Please click here for a detailed step by step guide on cleaning and maintaining your paving.
back to top
Is it necessary to seal the pavers after they have been installed?
No, it is not; however, for a pavement that requires regular cleaning, is likely to get splashed with oil, or for pavements that need to be protected from other types of accidental staining, applying a sealant is a good idea. A properly applied, quality sealant can keep any type of paving in excellent condition and can extend its life by ensuring jointing stays in place while keeping water ingress to a minimum. For more detailed information on sealants please click here.
back to top
How do I prevent weeds from growing in between the pavers, should fabric or plastic sheeting be placed underneath the paving?
It is a common misconception that weeds grow though the paving. This does occur in rare cases; however weeds almost always grow from airborne seeds that land in the jointing sand. Regular hosing and sweeping of the paved area will prevent weeds from growing as it disturbs newly emerging weeds and gets rid of them before they can fully establish themselves. If weeds do establish themselves, they can be removed by hand or with an organic weed killer. Please click here for more detailed information on how to remove weeds amongst your pavers.
back to top
Who should install my paving?
Choosing a good installer is as important as choosing a quality product. Incorrectly installed, paving could shift or break as a consequence of sub-base movement. Ask your installer to explain to you what procedures he will follow regarding earthworks, water flow and drainage. Ask him whether he installs paving according to the SABS 1200MJ specification and the quality grading of the raw materials being used. Please click here for more detail on how to choose the right paving installer as well as useful tips to keep track of the installation process.
back to top
Will the colour of my pavers wash or fade out and maybe lose their colour with age?
The colour cannot wash out as it is structurally part of the paver. Fading does occur, but over an extended period of time. This is partially due to UV light, dirt, weathering and normal wear and tear. If pavers are properly cleaned and maintained they are not likely to lose their colour. Therefore proper cleaning and sealing of your paving may restore and improve colour. Car tyre marks are common on light coloured paving such as tan. This is due to synthetic rubbers found in modern tyres, this is no fault of the paving and is unavoidable. If tyre marks are a concern for you rather choose a darker coloured paver.
back to top
Is the surface of the pavers slippery?
No, the texture of the surface of Bosun’s pavers is ideal for safe traction and can be safely used for applications like walkways, pool surrounds and driveways.
back to top
Is it possible to pave over an existing concrete walkway?
It is not recommended, however it is possible. Please make use of a professional to advise you as to the best way to achieve your desired paving outcome. Do not hesitate to contact us for advice on any paving enquiry.
back to top
What is efflorescence?
It is a natural phenomenon that occurs in all concrete products, it appears as a “whitish” film that becomes visible on the surface of the pavers. It consists mainly of the insoluble calcium carbonate (CaCO2). Efflorescence should be seen as a passing nuisance. This white haze is often blamed on the manufacturer, unjustifiably so, as it is a natural phenomenon that occurs in ALL concrete products (this is because it is a natural by-product of all hardened concrete).
Mainly it is caused by moisture reacting with lime and other minerals present in the cement and aggregates that can be exacerbated by the material on which the concrete pavers lie. Naturally occurring salts in the bedding sand or bedding mortar will migrate to the surface of the paving and become apparent on the face of the paver, it will disappear over time, and in the most severe cases it can take up to 2 years. However, the white marks can be reduced (and in some instances eradicated) by using a dilution of Hydrochloric Acid; this sort of treatment may only be done by a professional paving contractor.
back to top
|
