FAQ

Chalky residue on the surface of a wall or paver may indicate the presence of efflorescence. Efflorescence is a naturally occuring mineral deposit that exists to some degree in all concrete. It is not a defect in the material. Efflorescence can often be brushed away and sometimes dissipates on its own. Persistent efflorescence can be removed from the surface of concrete with a dedicated efflorescence remover. Some efflorescence cleaners have the potential to damage concrete and should only be used by experienced contractors.

The following HIGH FORMAT products are suitable for vehicular traffic in a properly designed residential driveway: New Mission Pavers and Amaro Pavers. All other HIGH FORMAT slabs are not suitable for vehicular traffic, and are not warranted against such.

Weed growth in paver joints can largely be prevented by installing polymeric sand in the joints. Polymeric sand contains a bonding agent that coagulates the sand while remaining flexible. Improperly installed polymeric sand can cause a semi-permanent haze on the surface of the patio or driveway. This is not covered under HIGH FORMAT’s warranty. So polymeric sand should only be installed by an experienced contractor.

Periodic cleaning can usually be performed with soapy water and a deck brush. Some organic staining (such as leaf staining) goes away naturally on its own. Persistent efflorescence can often be removed with a dedicated efflorescence remover. However, as some efflorescence cleaners have the potential to damage concrete, these should only be used by experienced contractors.

De-icing salts are potentially damaging to all concrete. Use of de-icing salts will void the warranty on most HIGH FORMAT products. Exceptions would be products utilizing TEKTRAMAT Technology, like Gauge Select, Mid-Century and Montrose slabs.

HIGH FORMAT products suitable for residential driveway applications may be cleared of snow using a plow equipped with a polyurethane blade. The use of steel blades may cause damage to the surface of these pavers and will void the warranty.

Most consumer-grade pressure washers are safe to use with caution on HIGH FORMAT products. However, high-powered commercial pressure washers have the potential to etch concrete. Damage caused by pressure washing is not covered under warranty.

Moss can often be carefully removed with a low-powered pressure washing. There are also chemical cleaners that can kill moss. Cleaners should be tested on a small area to ensure that they don’t damage the concrete. Damage caused by chemicals and pressure washing is not covered under warranty.