Efflorescence on the sidewalk tile and dark spots - a quick and easy fix ?

protection of paving slabs - to prevent the emergence of problems

Not so complicated care of paving tiles as it might seem at first glance.Moreover, if we pay attention to some of the nuances, it generally can be minimized.The problem is easier to prevent than to solve.For these purposes should be clearly borne in mind that do not recommended, and what to pay attention. First, to facilitate the further care for coating can be, if you carefully approach the selection of tiles.It must be made of concrete stamps M 200, M 250 and M 300.

degree of porosity of the material, its strength and hardness is quite possible to obtain durability and resistance to external influences pavement.The higher the grade of concrete strength, the better coverage you will get!Second, carefully observe the operating conditions of the track.If it is meant only for pedestrians, you should not tempt fate and move on it on a particular transport.

Third, do not use to remove dirt and efflorescence saline solutions, and other substances on basis of salt, corrosive chemicals ice.Experience shows that they accelerate the process of destruction of the coating and corrode its color (if in the composition of concrete were colored pigments).Fourth, it is not recommended to use a metal shovel, crowbar to clean snow and ice.The alternative would be items made of wood and plastic.

Dark spots on the sidewalk tile: main causes and control

appearance of dark spots on the surface of the paving slabs - the smallest problem that you can wait when it is operating.The reason for this phenomenon is the uneven drying.This is especially significant for the tracks that throughout its length is unevenly illuminated by solar rays.On a more shady areas of the drying process is slowed down.Often, the presence of dark spots can be detected, and before laying the tiles as they are formed even in the process of drying and demolding.

Usually the material is supplied in a tight polyethylene, which does not contribute to good air ventilation between the tiles.That evaporation in a confined space and leads to the appearance of dark spots unseasoned.The solution would be the use of special surface treatments to increase the degree of water resistance already laid covering tiles and competent process of drying before its installation.Special formulations are designed for the impregnation of paving slabs and increase its moisture resistance, called hydrophobizing.

timely handling paving slabs hydrophobizing liquid through its deep penetration into the coating (10-20 mm) and the formation of a protective layer on its surface, not only to prevent occurrence of unsightly dark spots, it gives the necessary soil release and antiseptic properties and increases resistance to frostreduces the degree of adhesion between the track and ice.Thus, treatment for paving slabs ensures that the road surface can withstand more cycles of freezing and thawing than usual and easier to clean from crust of ice.

As for dark spots that appear before laying tile, the experts advise not to panic.Outdoor track during operation such stains disappear within 3-6 months.However, if you have the opportunity to remove the packing tape and put the tiles face up, do not neglect it.Avoid storing the "face to face" the tiles!And next in complexity obstacle to the beautiful paths are efflorescence.

Efflorescence on the sidewalk tile - acquainted with the enemy close

Efflorescence can not only spoil the appearance of the track, but also to accelerate the process of their destruction.They are white spots are formed on the surface of the tile due to dissolving in the water contained in the concrete composition of the salts.This so-called "exit salts."Provoke him precipitation, dust and gases, temperature variations.Poor quality of the concrete - is also a risk factor, particularly when used for mixing it too "hard" water, accelerators or curing process it has a high degree of porosity.Leaching of the salts causes degradation of concrete structures, promotes easy penetration of moisture into its pores, the degree of strength reduction, etc.

Note: Depending on the operating conditions of efflorescence tracks may disappear on their own (natural erosion) and reappear!However, the process of self-extinction can not be delayed for one year.

Fight efflorescence recommend using special cleaning agents.Two large groups of cleaners today can be distinguished: the first is designed to clean the paving slabs on the newly emerging gaps, and the second - to address more complex efflorescence and dirt.The process of applying these means little different, but stronger acidic cleaners require pre-dilution with water in the proportions indicated on the package.

composition applied on a dry surface for 1-3 minutes with a brush, roller or spray.After the reaction, the surface of the track is cleaned with a damp cloth, water jet or a dry brush.Two days later - after complete drying of the tiles - you can begin to protect the surface with the help of impregnation.So, keep an attractive appearance of the track of the paving slabs is fairly easy and not too costly.The main thing is to care in a timely manner.