Interlock FAQ:
Repair, Polymeric Sand, Cost

A complete repair is the most effective solution: we remove the old sand between the stones, deep clean with high pressure, apply new polymeric sand and seal. The result: your pavers look brand new again with no replacement. At Duo Vert, that's our specialty in Gatineau.

Yes, in the vast majority of cases, a professional repair is enough. If the stones aren't broken and the base is stable, there's no need to tear everything out. Renewal costs a fraction of a new installation and gives impressive results.

Dull colour usually comes from embedded dirt, efflorescence or a lack of sealant. A high-pressure cleaning followed by a quality sealant instantly revives the colours. The Techniseal wet-look sealer we use darkens and intensifies the original colour even further.

Technically yes, but it's not recommended: it creates drainage and height problems. Repairing the existing pavers is almost always the better option, both visually and financially.

That's efflorescence: mineral salts that rise to the surface due to moisture. It's very common in Quebec after winter. It's not permanent and doesn't mean your pavers are damaged.

It takes a professional cleaning with a specialized anti-efflorescence product. Avoid white vinegar: it can stain and damage the concrete surface long-term. Book your free quote for an assessment.

Not always: as long as moisture rises through the pavers, the salts can come back, and a sealer alone does not stop that.

No, it's unsightly but not dangerous to your pavers' structure. That said, if you let the salts build up untreated for years, it can eventually affect the surface of the stones.

For us, it's Techniseal's wet-look sealer: the best we've found, and the one we use on every project. It darkens and brings out the colours, with a slight shine. Everything is explained on our interlock sealing page.

The surface needs to be perfectly clean and dry before application. We apply the sealant between 10 and 30°C (50 to 86°F), with no rain expected in the next 24 hours. That's why we recommend leaving this step to a professional: a poor application can create bubbles or an uneven finish.

We remove the old sand with our high-pressure washer and other top-quality equipment, not a simple blower or vacuum. We then thoroughly clean the joints, apply new dry polymeric sand, compact it, then carefully activate it with a fine water mist for a solid, lasting joint that resists weeds and insects.

Generally every 3 to 5 years while the joints stay weed-free, depending on wear, traffic and weather conditions. A full restoration comes around 6 to 8 years. If you see empty joints, weeds between the stones or ants getting in, that's a sign it's time to replace the sand.

Yes, that's what we call releveling. We lift the shifted stones, correct and compact the sand base underneath, and reinstall them level. The result lasts, especially if the drainage issue that caused the sinking gets fixed.

The freeze-thaw cycles of our Gatineau winters shift the ground, which gradually moves the stones. Poor drainage or an insufficient base at installation can also speed this up. It's very common in our region and completely fixable.

If it's a single cracked stone, we can replace it alone without touching the rest. If several stones have shifted, a full releveling of the area is recommended. Book your free quote for a no-obligation assessment.

Impossible to give a fixed price: it depends on the surface area, the pavers' condition, the type of service needed and site accessibility. What we guarantee: a 100% free quote and a transparent price with no hidden fees. Book your free quote.

With good maintenance (regular cleaning, a new coat of sealant when it looks worn and not before 2 years, polymeric sand replaced as needed), interlock pavers can easily last 20 to 40 years. The key: don't let problems pile up.

Yes, we serve all of Gatineau (Hull, Aylmer, Masson-Angers) as well as the Ottawa area. Book your free quote and we'll come to you.

Yes, 100% free with no obligation whatsoever. We come out, assess your project and give you a clear price. You decide after, no pressure. Book now.