Step-by-Step Guide to Interlocking Tile Maintenance
Interlocking tiles are one of the most popular choices for outdoor flooring in the UAE. Whether it’s a villa driveway, garden path, or patio, these tiles offer both beauty and strength. But just like any surface exposed to dust, heat, and traffic, they need regular care. That’s where interlocking tile maintenance becomes important.
In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to take care of your interlock tiles. These tips are based on proven techniques used by the professional team at AV Landscaping— Award Winning Experts in outdoor tile and paver care across the UAE.
Why Is Interlocking Tile Maintenance Important?
Living in the UAE means dealing with sandstorms, intense heat, and water shortages. Without proper maintenance, your tiles can become dirty, shift out of place, or even crack. With simple care, you can:
- Extend the life of your tiles
- Keep your space looking clean and professional
- Prevent safety issues like loose or slippery tiles
Step 1: Regular Sweeping and Washing
Dust and sand are the biggest enemies of outdoor flooring in the UAE. Start with this simple but effective routine:
- Sweep twice a week to remove dirt and leaves.
- Wash the tiles once a week using a hose or low-pressure washer. Avoid using harsh chemicals—they can damage the tile surface or remove color.
- If needed, use a mild soap and a brush with soft bristles to clean between the tiles.
Doing this regularly is the first step to successful interlocking tile maintenance.
Step 2: Weed Control Between the Tiles
Weeds can grow in the joints between your interlock tiles, especially in gardens or shaded areas. This not only looks bad but can also shift the tiles.
- Use a natural weed killer or vinegar mix to stop weeds early.
- Avoid strong chemical herbicides—they may damage the surrounding tiles.
- If you have many weeds, remove the top layer of sand and replace it with polymeric sand, which hardens and stops weeds from growing.
This step keeps your pavers tight and neat.
Step 3: Refill Joints with Sand
Over time, the sand between the tiles may wash away. This makes tiles loose and uneven. Fixing this is easy:
- Sweep jointing sand or polymeric sand into the gaps.
- Lightly water the area to let the sand settle and harden.
- Check this once every 3 to 6 months.
This keeps your interlock tiles stable and strong, a key part of good interlocking tile maintenance.
Step 4: Repair Loose or Broken Tiles
If you see any uneven, cracked, or loose tiles, don’t wait too long to fix them:
- Remove the broken tile carefully using a flat tool.
- Add new bedding sand underneath.
- Place the new tile and tap it gently into place using a rubber mallet.
AV Landscaping recommends using extra tiles from your original installation to match the color and design perfectly.
Step 5: Seal Your Tiles Once a Year
Sealing adds a protective layer to your interlock tiles and makes cleaning easier.
- Choose a UV-resistant, breathable sealer that works well in hot climates like the UAE.
- Clean the tiles first, then apply the sealer evenly using a roller or sprayer.
- Let it dry for at least 24 hours before walking or driving on it.
This step keeps your outdoor flooring looking shiny and prevents stains from oil, grease, or food spills.
Step 6: Prevent Damage from Heavy Loads
Driveways, parking areas, and patios often take heavy traffic. To avoid damage:
- Do not drag heavy furniture or items across the tiles.
- Place rubber or felt pads under outdoor furniture.
- For areas with car movement, make sure tiles are installed on a strong base with proper edge restraints.
This way of interlocking tile maintenance avoids cracking and keeps the surface even.
Step 7: Seasonal Maintenance in the UAE
In the UAE, summer heat and sandstorms can be harsh. Adjust your interlocking tile maintenance with the seasons:
- In summer: Wash more often and inspect for heat damage.
- In winter: Check for loose tiles after rainfall and clear debris.
At AV Landscaping, we offer seasonal tile inspections to help our clients keep everything in top shape all year long.
How AV Landscaping Makes It Easier
These steps are not just advice—they are the proven methods of our expert team at AV Landscaping. We provide:
- Professional tile cleaning and sealing services
- Tile repair and replacement using original materials
- Custom maintenance plans based on your property’s needs
Whether it’s a villa driveway, backyard garden, or commercial walkway, our team ensures your interlock tile surfaces remain clean, safe, and long-lasting.
Taking care of your interlocking tiles doesn’t have to be hard. With regular cleaning, weed control, joint sand refilling, and seasonal care, you can keep your outdoor flooring in perfect condition. These simple steps of interlocking tile maintenance help protect your investment and improve the look of your space.
Let AV Landscaping handle the hard work for you—your trusted landscaping partner for interlock tile solutions in the UAE.
