Why do paving slabs crack: these and other damages to the material

Most often, repair of paving slabs is carried out due to the appearance of chips and cracks in the edges on their surface. This is facilitated by abrasive materials in the form of crushed stone or gravel. Also, the destruction of the coating is often provoked by poor-quality tiles, so you should approach the choice of them before installation as responsibly as possible. It is also worth noting errors in laying the material right away.

As a rule, cracks in tiles can occur due to improper laying on unsuitable soil, ignoring the reinforcement of the base, as well as when the soil heaves. If there are laying defects, then the tiles must be dismantled and laid again without violating the installation technology. Small cracks are recommended to be filled with cement-colloidal or polymer glue. Answering the question of why tiles crack, it is also important to note the main types of contamination that can also lead to deformation of the base:

• Moss, lichen and other vegetation. They appear due to poor drainage or incorrect angle of the path to the water-draining elements.
• Rust. It appears due to direct contact of the tiles with metal, which already has traces of corrosion or is constantly exposed to moisture.
• Paint stains. They appear accidentally - as a result of painting other garden elements, or intentionally - as a result of graffiti.

Also, often on the surface of the tiles you can see traces of machine oil, stains from coffee, chocolate, chewing gum, carbonated drinks and much more. In this case, the question of how to wash paving slabs and what products can be used becomes relevant.

What is seasonal maintenance of paving slabs?

Sand washing out of the seams, leading to deformation of the laying of elements, mold on the tiles, sticking of ice and snow - all these shortcomings can be considered seasonal destruction. If you do not pay attention to the condition of the coating and do not timely prevent deformations and clean the tiles - their service life is significantly reduced. At the same time, it is important to choose the right tools and special means for tile care, taking into account the time of year.

Winter care

The main problem for tiles during this period is snow. If it is not removed in a timely manner, ice forms on the surface. Snow cover is removed using a broom and a shovel. To protect against ice, it is recommended to use technical salt or other ice-dissolving substances.

In no case should you use metal tools when cleaning tiles - only wooden or plastic ones. It is also important to avoid sprinkling ice on paths with abrasive bulk materials, which cause damage to the tiles.

It is important to take care of sealing the seams in advance to prevent melt water from penetrating inside. Thus, temperature changes will not pose any danger to the base material.

Summer care

In the warm season, the tiles are cleaned of debris and periodically washed with water from a hose. If they are laid next to a pool, then in this case you will need a special impregnation for tiles that protects against moisture. It is also recommended to use an antiseptic for paving slabs - to prevent the appearance of various bacteria and microorganisms.

Particular attention is paid to cleaning the tiles - taking into account the type of dirt:

• chewing gum - removed with a brush or chemical agent;
• tire marks - removed with hot steam or detergents in hot water;
• soot - use a soap solution or bleaching powder.

Oil stains can be washed off with a brush and dishwashing solution. Moss and dirt are removed with a strong stream of water or a garden shovel.

You can also learn how to extend the life of the tile from the recommendations of its manufacturer. To do this, you should carefully study the accompanying instructions, which usually describe all the important points on this matter.