Do pavers fade in the sun? Well, the short answer is yes; paver maintenance is a big subject when it comes to hardscape – and rightfully so. This is a delicate investment that requires more and more attention as time goes by, regardless of the material chosen, and meticulous measures should be undertaken to keep an outdoor project shining for years on end.

In this article, learn the necessary steps to keep your pavers clean and healthy even under harsh climate changes and sun exposition. If you’d like to read a complete guide on paver maintenance, click here instead.

Do pavers fade in the sun?

Yes, pavers do fade in the sun if left unattended. Given the fact that most outdoor projects sit in the open, unprotected by roofs, tree branches, or even the slightest shadow of a nearby building, sun rays usually hit (and penetrate) the floor without mercy. In this scenario, paving stones are prone to heat – some more than others – and lose their surface hue over time, which in turn makes any backyard, driveway, sidewalk, and even pool deck fade away.

What to do, then? Well, the big solution embraces various simple, yet essential smaller steps that together not only prolong the lifespan of any hardscape project but also preserve its beautiful appearance. Before we dive into them, however, you must learn all the factors that can potentially damage your paving stones, thereby causing fading or further problems:

• Sunlight: Of course, exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays from the sun can cause the colors in paving stones to eventually fade. Prolonged and intense sunlight can lead to the breakdown of pigments and the deterioration of the stone’s surface.

• Weathering: On the other hand, weather conditions such as rain, snow, and frost can also cause erosion and wear on the surface of paving stones. This can lead to the loss of color and texture over time.

• Traffic: Paving stones that are subject to heavy foot traffic or vehicular traffic may experience abrasion, which can lead to color fading and surface wear. The type of shoes or tires that come into contact with the stones can also affect their condition.

• Stains: Exposure to chemicals, such as de-icing salts, oil, grease, and other substances, can stain and deteriorate the surface of paving stones, causing them to fade or discolor.

• Algae and moss growth: Unfortunately, moisture and shade can create ideal conditions for algae, moss, and other organic growth on the surface of paving stones, which is a common problem in the summer. This growth can alter the appearance of the stones and contribute to fading.

• Aging: Like any material, paving stones may naturally undergo wear and tear over time. This is especially true for lower-quality stones or those that were not sealed or treated for durability.

How to prevent paver fading and discoloration

At the end of the day, preventing paver discoloration, particularly the one caused by sunlight damage, requires proper selection, installation, and maintenance. Here are some tips to help minimize discoloration on your pavers – by following these guidelines and taking proactive steps, you can help prevent further problems from occurring and save your budget on what would otherwise be a complete replacement of units.

• Choose UV-resistant pavers: When selecting pavers, choose ones that are UV-resistant. Some pavers are manufactured with UV-resistant pigments and coatings that can help protect against color fading; ask your supplier or manufacturer for pavers designed to withstand sunlight exposure.

• Use a sealer: As always, apply a high-quality sealer to your pavers (but only porous ones, such as bricks and concrete). Sealers create a protective barrier that can block UV rays, reduce water absorption, inhibit color fading, and restore the original glossy look of pavers, so be sure to use a sealer that is designed for your specific paver type and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Keep in mind that, over time, sealers can wear down and lose their effectiveness, which is your lead for a periodical reapplication. This will help maintain the protective barrier and prevent fading.

• Consider light-colored pavers: Naturally, whitish pavers tend to absorb less heat and are less prone to fading than dark-colored ones. If possible, choose pavers with lighter hues to reduce the impact of UV rays. Read our complete guide on light-colored pavers here.

• Install in shaded areas: If your landscape allows for it, consider installing pavers in shaded or partially shaded areas – for this can reduce direct exposure to sunlight and preserve the paver color. If you’re an ecological person and strive for a more vibrant neighborhood, consider planting surrounding trees and bushes to help you in this quest, too.

• Regular cleaning: Keep your pavers clean to prevent dirt and debris from building up on the surface. Regularly sweep and wash the pavers to remove dust, leaves, and other potential sources of discoloration.

• Control pests: Weeds, moss, and algae can not only discolor pavers but also trap moisture, leading to faster fading. Control the growth of these plants by using appropriate weed killers and a pressure washer and maintaining good drainage.

• Replace damaged pavers: If you notice severe discoloration or damage to individual pavers, consider replacing them with new ones (our suggestion is to have them stored somewhere in the house). Replacing the affected pavers can restore the overall appearance of your paved area as if it were brand new.

• Use shaded patio furniture and decor: If you have outdoor furniture or decorative items on your pavers, consider using items that provide shade or cover to minimize the pavers’ exposure to sunlight.

• Consult a professional: Finally, in case you’re unsure about the best practices for maintaining your specific type of pavers or dealing with discoloration issues, consult with a professional landscaper or contractor who specializes in paver installations. They can provide further guidance and recommend appropriate solutions, even going as far as restoring your project for you without breaking the bank.

Hire professional services of paver maintenance in Florida

Although versatile, beautiful, and extremely durable, any kind of paver stone will suffer from the inevitable passage of time one way or another. Now, even having a general idea of how to take care of pavers before the fading problem becomes a stronger headache, sometimes you might not have the time for a full commitment.

That’s why, once again, consulting with professionals is key. And if you live near Sarasota, Florida, our team is here to give you a hand. Don’t hesitate to contact Eagle Pavers today – we can even offer you a free quote on whatever hardscaping need you might have!

As a branch of Eagle Stones, we’ve been serving the city and its surrounding counties for years now. We provide top-quality services that include paver supply, installation, sealing, and maintenance. We’ll be waiting for you!